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Ker & Downey 'Give Back' - Ideas for ways you can help too
Whether your passion for travel takes you to Africa, India, South America or all points in between, there is one common thread that we all have - a curiousity to see the world and learn about other places, people and cultures. With over four decades in the travel industry, Ker & Downey have seen first hand how tourism dollars support local and international economies and people. However, not all tourism dollars trickle down to those who need it the most.
It has been our philosophy at Ker & Downey to 'give back' in ways that are far more personal and powerful than tourism dollars. We all bring home incredible memories, a sense of satisfaction and wonder of the places we visit. Our photographs fade over time, however the smile of a child in Kenya, a family of gorillas in Uganda or the story of a safari guide who's income supports many family members - these are the experiences that touch our hearts and make each journey unforgettable.
Many of our clients, upon their return from their destinations have asked, 'what can we do to help?' Below is a list of organizations we are particularly passionate about as well as some ideas for ways you can make a real impact into the lives of a community. In addition, beginning in 2008, all final documents kits will contain an informational sheet of ideas and tips to help you 'give back' as well.
Manna From Heaven - A community outreach program based in Botswana who's mission it is to provide love, healing and hope to the poor, sick and terminally ill. Food, clothing, cash donations for orphans and medical supplies - the need is beyond description. Click here to visit their website and learn more. You can also read about Baby Lauren, who was adopted by the entire Ker & Downey staff! Learn about her sad past, but rejoice in her bright future.
Wildlife Direct Virunga Gorilla Project - From war, to poachers to the charcoal mafia, this privately funded cause works closely with local rangers to protect the gorilla families in the Virunga National Park. The gorilla families face perile each day. Poachers have killed or stolen many of the animals. Some are simply hapless victims of the madness of war. The need is dire - from new shoes and uniforms for the rangers, medical supplies for veterinarians who volunteer their time, to shelter and food for the orphaned gorillas, Ker & Downey employees do what they can by volunteering a payroll deduction. Visit the website and learn about the rangers, their love for these amazing animals and the devotion of these men who risk their lives daily (and some who have lost the battle), so that the gorillas will have a future that is certain.
Pack Extra - As any of our sales staff the same question and you'll get a different answer. Some like Gana Marek packs her suitcases to the brim with extra clothing. When she arrives, she gives it to our Ker & Downey representative who makes sure her clothing donation gets distributed to those who need it most. An extra benefit is that she has extra room to bring home keepsakes of her travels! Jaime Bell goes shopping at her local discount store and buys several pairs of sneakers in various sizes. Because her passion is the children, she distributes them when she meets a child who could use a new pair of shoes! Cherie Kuykendall likes to pack lots of pencils, crayons, erasers and other school supplies for the children as many of the rural schools have little or no supplies to help educate the children. Contact your travel expert or look for your flyer in your final documents for ways you can make a very personal and loving memory for not just yourself, but for those whose lives and hearts you touch along the way.
Let Ker & Downey Help - If you would like to make a cash donation, let Ker & Downey help. Contact us and we'll make sure 100% of your donation goes to the charity or project that has the most need.
Ker Downey Botswana:
The Ker & Downey experience is in a class of its own. A primary goal is to provide guests the opportunity of a personal relationship with nature. Ker & Downey's deluxe, traditional safari camps are small and in exclusive settings where guests can honestly say: 'We had it all to ourselves!'
Despite almost 40 years of safari experience, Ker & Downey does not take Africa for granted. Safaris into the most remote and unspoiled tracts are operated with the same precision, strict attention to detail, and concern for safety which have been the Ker & Downey signature for two generations. Nostalgic safaris are supported by the finest modern equipment and resources (including a company-owned fleet of aircraft), and a caring, personal service which guarantees a unique and enriching experience.
The parent company of both Ker & Downey (USA) and Ker & Downey Botswana is WI Investments, LTD. Both are independent companies with a buyer / supplier relationship. Visit KBD on the web at www.kerdowneybotswana.com.
Ker & Downey
6703 Highway Blvd - Katy, TX 77494
Toll-free 1-800-423-4236
Local Telephone: 281-371-2500 Fax: 281-371-2514
info@kerdowney.com
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