Sandals and its not-for-profit Sandals Foundation have selected 40 community projects which will be supported across eight Caribbean destinations under the 40 for 40 Initiative.
The initiative, which celebrates Sandals Resorts’ 40th anniversary, will see staff support and participate in a range of projects, which in many cases will also be open to guests at Sandals and Beaches resorts.
The projects cover six main areas: conservation, food supply chain, hospitality training, support of local artisans, music education and small business & community market support.
Adam Stewart, executive chairman of Sandals Resorts International and founder of the Sandals Foundation, said: “Tourism has the power to transform, not only the lives of guests who immerse themselves in the charm and culture of the Caribbean while on holiday, but also the lives of our team members and neighbours who build their families’ roots in the region.
“This is the important work we build on and celebrate today, as part of our relentless efforts to strengthen the transformative link between tourism and the empowerment of our local Caribbean communities.”
Heidi Clarke, executive director of the Sandals Foundation, said: “We are very excited about these 40 projects of transformation and our role in helping realise the impact that tourism has in the Caribbean.
“Tourism touches almost every corner of local communities and we are fully appreciative of its ability to make a real difference in people’s lives.”
She added: We are extremely grateful to every guest, team member, partner, travel advisor, donor and supporter who have volunteered or supported our work to improve literacy, healthcare, youth engagement and the many other areas in which we focus.
“Together with our SRI teammates, we will continue to use the power of tourism to bring lasting change.”