Monday, September 28, 2015
Is Travel the New Face of Philanthropy?
America has always been considered one of the most generous nations, but now there's even more evidence in a new study called "Good Travels: The Philanthropic Profile of the American Traveler," released this week by Tourism Cares. The new data shows that more than half of the Americans surveyed have given of their money, time or goods while on a recent vacation. Not only was some kind of giving surprisingly prevalent, the care and support for the communities where the travelers visited was especially important for millennials, families and affluent households.
Tourism Cares, the charitable arm of the tourism industry, just released this study of American travelers who "give back" prior to, during and following their travel experiences. It was conducted by Phocuswright and supported by the tourism industry, including sponsors American Express, Amadeus, Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection, Delta Air Lines, Hostelling International USA and the United States Tour Operators Association. It is the first holistic look at the giving and volunteering motivations, habits and practices of travelers before, during and after their trips.
"This new research helps the traveling public understand the potential for especially meaningful travel and is a call to action for the tourism industry," said Mike Rea, CEO of Tourism Cares. "This groundbreaking look at travelers who give holds the key to more sustainable tourism: for more meaningful travel for the public, for more responsive travel companies, and for travelers and the tourism industry to work together to better sustain the destination communities they care for...."