The Sandals Foundation’s Heidi Clarke on what the future holds and how agents can give back
Now in its 13th year, the Sandals Foundation continues to make a difference across the Caribbean with new projects like the launch of Future Goals. Coinciding with the debut of Sandals Royal Curaçao, the non-profit organization is fostering the development of soccer across the island by mentorship opportunities and creating soccer goals for children made from fishing nets sourced from the ocean and recycled plastic waste. To find out more about how the non-profit organization has grown and how agents can get involved, Travel Courier caught up with Heidi Clarke, executive director of the Sandals Foundation.
I think just the sheer size, scope and powerful impact of the Sandals Foundation has grown so much since our start 13 years ago. It’s an honour to have this meaningful job that I love, with the ability to help others and work alongside an incredible team to create and implement programs and projects that don’t just change the lives that we touch directly, but hopefully for the next generation as well because their parent was simply given an opportunity.
We’re in the midst of our “40 for 40 Initiative” which we launched as part of Sandals Resorts’ 40th anniversary celebrations. Forty projects were identified across our Caribbean destinations where we operate that best showcase the incredible link between tourism and its power to transform communities and improve lives.
Beyond these 40 transformational community projects, our mission is also to advance the sustainable development of the Caribbean region by implementing projects that align and contribute to global Sustainable Development Goals.
The future holds unlimited potential for change and new opportunities to make a difference and inspire hope, particularly as Sandals and Beaches expand into new destinations, such as Curaçao and St. Vincent & The Grenadines.
Canadian agents have embraced the Sandals Foundation since the very beginning and we’re so grateful for their ongoing support. A simple thing, like advising their clients about a number of ways they can help during their next Sandals or Beaches vacation, really does go a long way.
We work closely with Pack for a Purpose whereby guests can pack up to 5lbs. per person of donated and approved supplies (everything from general school supplies like pencils and notebooks to health care items including feminine products) and simply them drop off at the resort’s front desk for local distribution. It’s that easy!
We also have a dedicated Sandals Foundation section in the resort shops, so all retail purchases of these items – many sourced from local artisans – will go directly to help fund our various projects.
Our “Island Impact” program allows guests the chance to explore the island through some amazing volunteer experiences created in partnership with Island Routes, including the very popular “Sea Turtle Watching Tour” in Ocho Rios. This is a uniquely intimate conservation experience with sea turtles in their natural habitat that helps ensure the survival of these endangered species. Guests can also dive with us in St. Lucia and Jamaica and help outplant corals to strengthen the coastline and resilience of our marine space. There are multiple ways to get involved while enjoying an unforgettable Caribbean experience.
Community service and outreach are part of the Sandals DNA, all stemming from our late Founder, the Hon. Gordon “Butch” Stewart. Working in the local communities has been an essential part of the Sandals story since 1981, when he bought his first hotel and created Sandals Montego Bay. It’s also the very same year that the company began its relationship with the local Flankers community. Of course, this was long before corporate social responsibility became the “buzzword” it is now. Since then, the commitment to community development has only continued to grow through the formal creation of the Sandals Foundation in 2009. Our team members, guests, travel agents, partners and donors play a crucial role in making our work possible by sharing ideas for projects as well as giving their time and resources. We will continue to use the power of this incredible network to create lasting change in this region and inspire hope.
