The Next Big Kahuna?

When Christi Allen Franchini and Michelle Pope were nominated for this year’s Big Kahuna Challenge—a spirited fundraising competition to benefit The Good Health Clinic—they knew exactly what they were getting into. The event challenges local business owners and community leaders to raise the most money for healthcare services that keep Keys families healthy and thriving. And these two co-owners of Pilates in Paradise are bringing their community love and just the right amount of competitive fire to make things very interesting.

The Good Health Clinic holds a special place in both women’s hearts. For Christi, the connection to the clinic runs deep and personal. “My stepfather didn’t have medical insurance for the first seven years he lived here, and he relied on The Good Health Clinic,” Christi shares, her voice carrying the weight of understanding that comes from watching someone you love face these challenges.

Michelle sees a similar picture painted across their island community. “The high cost of living in the Keys means the very people who keep our community running are finding it difficult to find the local resources they need. The Good Health Clinic fills a crucial gap.”

The parallel between their business mission and the clinic’s purpose isn’t lost on either woman. For more than two decades, Pilates in Paradise has been guiding clients toward better health, strengthening bodies and lifting spirits session by session. Both places understand that health isn’t a luxury—it’s the foundation that makes everything else possible. Thus, their excitement for accepting the Big Kahuna challenge.

This challenge marks their Big Kahuna debut, though both women are no strangers to the annual luau celebration that caps off the challenge. They’ve attended a few times, soaking up the electric energy that only happens when the whole community comes together to celebrate something meaningful. Now they’re excited to experience that magic from the competitor’s perspective, knowing that every dollar raised makes the party that much sweeter.

Their competitive spirit is playful but fierce. When asked how much money they want to raise, Michelle’s eyes light up with mischief. “More than anyone else!” she laughs, but then adds a bit more seriously, “The more we embrace the friendly competition, the more we all will raise for this deserving cause. So bring it on, other Kahunas!”

This year’s Kahunas are chasing last year’s impressive benchmark set by Mary Houston of Houston Insurance Agency, who raised $31,077 for the challenge.

What makes  Christi and Michelle such strong contenders isn’t just their competitive spirit or their deep community roots—though both women have spent years volunteering for everything from Key Largo Rotary to the Conch Scramble. It’s their genuine understanding of what it means to show up for your neighbors, day after day, year after year.

Their fundraising strategy extends well beyond the traditional donation drive. They’re planning multiple events, including a wine tasting event on September 4th at City Hall Cafe in Tavernier. The theme is “Giving Back—Wear White & Black,” with a prize for the best dressed person or couple. Be sure to save the date and stay tuned to Pilates in Paradise’s social media for more fundraising events!

To make a donation and place your vote, click the link below to select “Christi Franchini & Michelle Pope” as your Big Kahuna choice. Every dollar donated goes directly to the Good Health Clinic while boosting their chances of taking home the title.

CLICK HERE – Vote Christi Franchini & Michelle Pope as your next big Kahuna 🌴  

Sponsorship opportunities are also available that include tickets to the Big Kahuna Event at Founder’s Park Beach on October 11th—the ultimate island celebration where the winner will be crowned!