Local fundraising commences for Saint Joseph’s College Hall renovations

MBOPA team in Pago

Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — The wait is finally over and the stage is set! After months of meticulous preparation, the Marist Brother’s Old Pupil Association (MBOPA) in Samoa and American Samoa communities will begin their highly anticipated three-day fundraising events this week. 

Demonstrating a unified regional effort, the MBOPA Samoa Executive Committee and designated subcommittee representatives traveled to American Samoa over the weekend to assist local affiliates and associates with vital event coordination.

However, we are expecting more of MBOPA Samoa members who are eager to take part in these events to arrive during the week prior to the events.

The initiative is set to draw international backing, with MBOPA regional networks across Australia and New Zealand expected to actively support and contribute to these premier fundraising efforts.

Over the past few weeks, dedicated MBOPA fundraising subcommittees have worked tirelessly around the clock to finalize and compile the upcoming event week's program. They have voluntarily offered their time and efforts which have generously balanced these intensive planning efforts alongside their own work and family obligations. Despite these demanding commitments and challenges, the enduring Marist Spirit serves as a constant reminder of the profound purpose driving our continuous fundraising efforts over the years.

The “Renovation of the St Joseph’s College, Centennial Hall” in Alafua, has been a long standing long term project given the substantial funds required to proceed with the structural rehabilitation and meet regulatory standards.

This very same reason is why we, as Marist, are motivated to continue our service to our beloved Saint Joseph’s College. Ultimately, this project is about legacy; a Hall that once anchored our own school days is now being renovated to give back to the future students of Saint Joseph’s College.

Based on the comprehensive analysis and recommendations of the structural engineer, Konrad Lober, the Centennial Hall requires renovation. Guided by the proposed design of our architectural designer, Johnny Ah Ching, the new space seamlessly blends modern aesthetics with functional living.

MBOPA Members for both communities are overwhelmed with excitement and driven by immense enthusiasm with the nearing events as scheduled:

Dates:                            Events:                         Cost:                           Location:

2 July 2026, Thursday   Golf Tournament          $300USD per team      Ili’ili Golf Course

3 July 2026, Friday        Corporate Table           $1000USD per table    DWYA Youth Center

4 July 2026, Saturday    Raffle                           $20USD per sheet       Bowling Alley

The Raffle tickets are being sold at these locations:

Western Union in Nu’uuli, GIAS in Tafuna and Toolshop in Tafuna, and a booth will be held at Samoa Money Transfer opposite Starkist. Do not miss this great opportunity to win yourself one of our amazing food and beverage packages.

We are profoundly grateful for the invaluable support of the above mentioned businesses and the community of American Samoa who have generously offered to serve as official outlets or ticket booths for our Raffle and Corporate Table tickets for this remaining week. 

A special acknowledgement is extended to the Silva Group, whose generous sponsorship and corporate backing have been instrumental in advancing our fundraising goals.

We honor our long existing partner in sponsorship, TAULA, our dedicated pillar of support across countless Marist milestones over the years.

We invite all our Marist alumni, fraternity, affiliates, families, friends, businesses and companies and government departments and communities in both Samoa and American Samoa  to come and join one of our events and support the cause.

Please refer to our Facebook Page for all the three (3) Fundraising event’s details as well as contact personals.

The Marist Brothers Old Pupil Association is seeking support for its upcoming Hall refurbishment project. This is to enhance the student learning environment, the MBOPA welcomes all forms of aid, including monetary donations, corporate sponsorships, practical assistance, and voluntary contributions.

“By investing today, we ensure future young Marist leaders continue to thrive and carry forward the Marist spirit, on our Marist grounds”.

IN THE MANNER OF MARY