The General Contractors Association of Hawaii (GCA) raised $50,077 for the Domestic Violence Action Center (DVAC), exceeding its initial fundraising goal of $50,000.

GCA’s annual “Give Back to the Community” program gives members an opportunity to support a local nonprofit organization. This year, Steve Baginski, president and CEO of Kaikor Construction Group, chose DVAC as the beneficiary of the fundraising. Baginski has a personal connection to DVAC, as his wife’s sister lost her life at the hands of an abusive husband.

“There is a ripple effect. When someone loses their life, there are so many others who are affected,” Baginski said in a news release. “I appreciate the generosity of the GCA members in supporting DVAC.”

“There is a great need for our services. You may not always hear about domestic violence incidents because victims may be ashamed or afraid to speak openly about their experiences,” Monique Ibarra, DVAC’s CEO, said in the release. “But based on the growing number of people who require assistance from DVAC, we are filling an important need in our community. We appreciate the generosity of the GCA members. Their support means a lot to those who reach out to DVAC for help.”

DVAC provides a range of services for victims of domestic violence, including a helpline, legal representation, housing, support groups, educational and awareness programs and culturally-specific services.