Destination International is the world’s largest and most reliable resource for destination organizations. It is dedicated to empowering members to grow their destinations’ success. Destination International shows its heart and soul by standing with those who just experienced Hurricane Helene’s devastation.
The DI Foundation has been responding to member destinations in Florida, Georgia, Tennessee, North Carolina, and South Carolina.
As this storm developed in the Gulf of Mexico early last week, the DI’s membership team, led by Julie Holmen, began dedicated outreach to such destinations in the path of Hurricane Helene.
Don Welsh, president and CEO of the organization, addressed members in his Executive Update today:
Working with communities we love
“We are privileged to work in our industry and represent the communities we love. During my tenure at Destinations International, I have never seen our community come together more passionately or more quickly than when our peers and colleagues need help.
“By working with the State Tourism Offices and our destination members, we assessed where our assistance was immediately needed. Once this information was available, I contacted Amir Eylon, the chairman of the Foundation Board, and Scott White, the chairman of the Association Board, to provide an update and recommend a support plan.
Following these briefings, they immediately engaged their respective executive committees to approve our financial support plan. “
According to the update, the Destinations International Foundation has made the following donations to the most impacted areas:
- North Carolina ($10,000): North Carolina Disaster Relief Fund
- Asheville, North Carolina ($7,500): World Central Kitchen
- Florida ($5,000): Florida Disaster Fund
- Georgia ($5,000): United Way of the CSRA and Camp Rock of Georgia
- Tennessee ($5,000): East Tennessee Foundation
- South Carolina ($2,500): United Way of Greenville County
IMEX America Steps Up
The international tourism world is about to come together in Las Vegas for IMEX America from October 8-11.
Ray Bloom, the founder of IMEX, and Carina Bauer from the IMEX Group contacted Destination International to ask how they could assist.
Don Welsh said: “I am grateful that the IMEX Group has matched the above contributions, putting our immediate support at $70,000 USD.
How members of the travel and tourism industry can help?
These communities need urgent, large-scale support as they begin a long, arduous recovery and healing process.
Don Welsh is invited to join the DI Foundation, IMEX Group, and many others by donating directly to one or more of the organizations listed above or one of your choosing.
Those concerned can donate directly to the Destinations International Foundation Hurricane Helene Relief Fund (click here)
Destination International ensures that 100% of all contributions will go directly to the organizations listed.