This year we honor James K. “Jim” Schuler for his significant contributions and continued support for the American Cancer Society, in loving memory of his wife, Patricia Schuler. Mr. Schuler’s long history of volunteer leadership includes being instrumental in the inception of Hope Lodge Honolulu, serving as co-chair on the campaign that raised the funds for its construction. For 10 years, he also served as volunteer chair for the American Cancer Society Hawai‘i’s Boots on the Beach Gala, raising more than $1 million for programs and services.
In 1973, Mr. Schuler began a long and successful career as a real estate developer, building Schuler Homes into Hawai‘i’s largest homebuilder (along with a significant presence in the Western United States). In 2002, Schuler Homes merged with D.R. Horton to become the largest homebuilder in the U.S. In addition to his service to the American Cancer Society, Mr. Schuler’s nonprofit board experience includes the Humane Society for Seattle/King County, the American Red Cross Hawai‘i, Le Jardin Academy, Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum and many more Hawai‘i organizations.
In 2002, Mr. Schuler was awarded the Mauka Makai Award from the Cancer Research Center of Hawai‘i for his efforts to increase community awareness of cancer and cancer research in Hawai‘i. In 2016, he was recognized as an Outstanding Philanthropist at Honolulu’s National Philanthropy Day.
“Unfortunately, very few of us go through life without being touched by cancer and its impacts, either personally, or with family members or friends. I understand, all too well, what it means to experience cancer with a loved one, as my wife, Patti, battled ovarian cancer for over 5 years.
This is why The American Cancer Society and Hope Lodge are so important to me. They provide HOPE for both patients and the people who love them, with research, support, and a place for family and friends to be with their loved ones during a very difficult time, if treatment options are not available close to home.
Everyone fighting cancer should have access to the best of treatments and care. And no one should have to go through this alone. The weight of a person’s battle with cancer can be lightened, their well-being and sense of hope can be enhanced, if surrounded by the people who love them the most.
And it is just as meaningful to a patient’s loved ones to be there for the patient. We live and breathe the challenges of the people we care about. Being with a friend or family member during their cancer treatment can provide hope and comfort to us as well.
I am honored to be recognized by the American Cancer Society. My family and I are committed to continuing to support the work of the American Cancer Society and Hope Lodge, in honor of my late wife, Patti. I am especially grateful to all those who work tirelessly in fighting cancer, finding cures and making Hope Lodge a place for hope…for families and friends to be there for each other. These are the true heroes.”
– James K. “Jim” Schuler