If you are looking for other ways to give this holiday season, we’ve curated a list of some of the best charities for travel lovers. The holidays are always a time for giving, and as the end of the year approaches, many people search for charities worthy of their support. Notably, Giving Tuesday started as a social media hashtag in 2012 and has since encouraged annual participation in spreading generosity through volunteering and charitable donations.
Best Travel Charities to Donate To
Giving Tuesday provides a wonderful balance to the excesses of Black Friday, Thanksgiving, and Cyber Monday. Numerous charities across the globe work tirelessly to assist underserved communities in travel destinations, rendering them deserving of your contributions. Although the tourism industry has its challenges, it has positively impacted local economies and ecosystems.
The travel sector has begun to recognize its effects on local communities and wildlife by supporting local businesses and considering environmental responsibility. While there is considerable progress to be made, many organizations are pursuing ambitious goals to foster real change.
This list serves to inspire your charitable spirit for Giving Tuesday and beyond while raising awareness about various causes that resonate with many. Here are some of the best travel charities dedicated to supporting animals, communities, and conservation efforts.
1. World Animal Protection
World Animal Protection has our unwavering support since its inception as The World Society for the Protection of Animals (WSPA). For over 15 years, our partnership has been focused on raising awareness about responsible wildlife tourism. The travel industry significantly contributes to highlighting the issues animals face, and we take pride in our role in advocating for these changes.
Founded in 1981, World Animal Protection is devoted to creating a better world for animals. The organization tackles various issues faced by animals, ranging from alleviating the suffering of bears in captivity to combating cruelty against working animals and livestock. Their ongoing efforts speak volumes about the donations they receive.
For Giving Tuesday, World Animal Protection matches donations aimed at improving the lives of factory-farmed animals like pigs and chickens. Contributions support initiatives meant to influence governmental policy changes, enhance animal welfare standards, promote group housing, and improve transport conditions.
2. FedEx and Orbis Flying Eye Hospital
The NGO Orbis has united people for 40 years to eliminate preventable blindness worldwide, particularly in underserved areas throughout Africa, Asia, and South America.
Staggeringly, nearly 1 billion individuals globally are affected by blindness that could be treated or prevented. Orbis is committed to ensuring equitable access to eye health care for all. Their dedicated volunteers, including doctors and nurses, are devoted to sharing their expertise with local medical professionals.
Recently, we hosted our third Orbis Flight For Sight Virtual Event and are excited to co-host again next year. This engaging event encourages teams to showcase their travel trivia skills while raising essential funds to combat avoidable blindness globally.
3. Plan International
During our cycling trip through Africa, we witnessed firsthand the impactful work of Plan Canada in various communities. Their mission centers on children and ensuring equal rights for young girls globally.
We participated in their “Because I’m a Girl” campaign aimed at empowering young women through education and opportunities. Additionally, Plan supports child welfare initiatives, clean water access, and healthcare. A noteworthy project we visited in Cairo focused on empowering women through micro-finance.
4. Born Free Foundation
With a deep connection to wildlife advocacy, the Born Free Foundation was established in 1984 to halt the exploitation of animals in captivity or the wild. Our encounter with Ian Redmond, a renowned wildlife consultant for Born Free, highlighted the importance of this organization’s work.
Redmond’s expertise in elephants and great apes further emphasizes the significance of supporting this nonprofit. Your donations to the Born Free Foundation directly contribute to wildlife conservation, rescue and care initiatives, sustainability programs, anti-captivity efforts, and education.
5. Sheldrick Wildlife Trust
Focusing on African wildlife, the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust provides rehabilitation for elephants and rhinos. Consider visiting this charity during your African safari as your visit can meaningfully contribute to elephant rehabilitation efforts in Kenya.
We had the privilege of visiting the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, witnessing their elephant rescue and rehabilitation programs in action. The troubling realities facing elephants and rhinos in Africa underscore the critical nature of such initiatives. With your support, they engage in anti-poaching efforts while educating local communities and providing veterinary assistance.
This Giving Tuesday, all qualified donations and adoptions will be matched dollar-for-dollar, up to $650,000.
6. Charity Water
As a vital resource, access to clean water remains a significant global challenge. Currently, 703 million people lack access to safe drinking water, with alarming statistics from the World Health Organization highlighting the scale of the crisis.
Having traveled through rural areas of Africa, South America, and Asia, we understand the lengths people go to secure clean water. Founded in 2006, Charity Water is on a mission to ensure everyone enjoys access to clean water in our lifetime.
Every donation to Charity Water is directed to field projects, as private donors cover operating expenses, maximizing the impact of your contribution. Read more here.
7. Animals Asia
Animals Asia is dedicated to ending the cruel practice of bear bile farming while enhancing animal welfare standards across Asia. Since their establishment in 1998, they have rescued bears and are working diligently to end this inhumane practice.
Collaborating with the Vietnamese Government, Animals Asia aims to eradicate bear bile farming and is also advocating to close the dog and cat meat trade. They are committed to helping animals in captivity and suffering within zoos across Southeast Asia.
7. WWF
The World Wildlife Fund (WWF) has been a trusted organization for conservation efforts globally for 60 years. They work in over 100 countries addressing vital issues like climate change, ecosystem preservation, and wildlife protection. Your donations contribute to creating a future where humanity coexists in harmony with nature.
8. Ocean Conservancy
The Ocean Conservancy has been leading the International Coastal Cleanup for over 30 years. Their science-based approach focuses on finding sustainable solutions to ocean challenges.
They advocate for policy reforms while working on initiatives for sustainable fisheries and reducing ocean waste. By supporting Ocean Conservancy, you can aid efforts that contribute to healthier oceans.
9. Take 3
Upon learning about Take 3, we were inspired by its simplicity—a call for everyone to pick up three pieces of trash whenever they visit a natural area. This act can significantly change our water bodies’ health. Take 3 also supports education, youth leadership, and various conservation initiatives.
10. Sustainable Travel International
As travelers, understanding our impacts on the environment is essential. Sustainable Travel International not only helps calculate your carbon footprint but also works to protect vulnerable destinations by collaborating with communities on initiatives to clean beaches and preserve local cultures.
They engage with governments to implement policies that foster healthier tourism practices while educating travelers to make responsible choices that improve the world around us.
11. Pencils of Promise
Traveling through Asia, Africa, and South America, we often witnessed children yearning for simple writing tools. While it’s rewarding to give directly, we prefer supporting organizations that create lasting community impacts.
Pencils of Promise focuses on global education by supporting teachers and providing critical resources like safe water, sanitation, and new classrooms. Their initiatives span various countries, including Ghana, Guatemala, and Laos.
12. Make a Wish Foundation
My memories of friends participating in the Make a Wish program are heartwarming. This foundation fulfills wishes for critically ill children, creating memorable experiences that bring joy even in difficult times.
13. Tourism Cares
As passionate travelers, we must leave a positive mark on the places we explore. Recently, we discovered Tourism Cares, an organization that emphasizes responsible tourism. Their work protects cultural and natural heritage globally while supporting local communities.
Engaging with Tourism Cares means actively enhancing the world through your travels, ensuring your adventures positively contribute to the destinations you cherish.
14. SPCA
For those who prefer a local charity, your nearby SPCA often requires funds for animal rescue and care. We have supported the Ontario SPCA for many years, which aids abused animals and promotes humane education right in our community. Search for your local SPCA to contribute.
Contributing to charities is a personal choice. The charities listed here serve as a guide to inspire your giving this season. As travel enthusiasts, we believe in giving back to the destinations we cherish through positive economic impact initiatives and local charitable contributions.
This is only the beginning; numerous remarkable charities exist to support. When deciding where to donate, trust your instincts and research thoroughly. Together, we can foster a brighter future for communities and wildlife worldwide.
