Travelers' philanthropy projects help guests forge long-term relationships with the landscapes and communities they visit.
Particularly in the ecotourism industry, hospitality operations are establishing philanthropic programs that help guests contribute to the places that they visit. Such programs convey tourism's economic benefits to local communities and ecosystems in profound ways. These acts of giving or volunteering can make guests new stakeholders in places far from their homes, which in turn can help strengthen those places beyond the benefits directly imparted by the travelers' donations.
SRI launched its first travelers' philanthropy project with the Lodge at Sun Ranch and its predecessor operation, Papoose Creek Lodge. Building on this pilot program, SRI can now implement similar programs with other tourism operators in regions where we work. As a pilot location, the Lodge at Sun Ranch offers a rich example. It already provides unique learning opportunities for guests through recreational activities on its extensive private property, excursions into surrounding public lands, interaction with ranch staff, and contact with the local community.
The Institute has helped the Lodge staff integrate travelers' philanthropy into the entire operation. Instead of simply asking guests to donate at the end of their visit, the program integrates philanthropy and education into guests' entire stay. In turn, guests' experience at the Lodge at Sun Ranch becomes an investment in the Intermountain West that we hope continues long into the future.
SRI provides a mechanism for administering the program, accepting donations, and building bridges with local individuals and organizations.
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