In a commendable initiative, Intrepid Travel commits over £500,000 in 2024 to support global communities through its non-profit arm, demonstrating their dedication to empowering local NGOs.
- This pledge includes a creative initiative of matching public donations up to £500,000, potentially doubling the impact of each contribution.
- Through strategic collaborations, Intrepid aims to further its support for grassroots NGOs selected by its local teams in destinations worldwide.
- Having raised over £1.4 million in 2023 for various community projects, The Intrepid Foundation continues its impactful philanthropic work.
- Multiple initiatives like the Morocco Earthquake Appeal and partnerships with educational organisations mark their commitment to sustainable community development.
In a commendable initiative, Intrepid Travel has committed more than £500,000 in 2024 to support communities globally through its non-profit arm. This significant pledge is part of an innovative strategy whereby Intrepid will match public donations up to £500,000, effectively doubling the potential contributions. By assuring that every donation goes further, Intrepid aims to strengthen its support for 45 grassroots NGOs chosen by its local teams in the destinations they operate.
In 2023, The Intrepid Foundation achieved a remarkable milestone by raising over £1.4 million for community projects across the globe. This was the most successful fundraising year for the foundation since its inception in 2002. Among the key efforts was the Morocco Earthquake Appeal, through which 108 tonnes of emergency supplies were delivered to 69 villages in 48 municipalities. This emergency response directly supported 3,872 families, collaborating with the High Atlas Foundation to manage the aid efficiently.
Furthermore, initiatives focused on long-term sustainability were set in motion, such as water restoration projects for communities where safe drinking water systems were damaged. The foundation also facilitated educational support to 250 affected students through its local partner, Education for All, providing them with schooling, accommodation, supplies, clothing, and free counselling.
Additionally, Intrepid raised £172,000 through its Blue Dragon marathon events held across several cities, including Melbourne, London, Toronto, Osaka, and Singapore. These funds are designated to assist victims of human trafficking in Vietnam through the Blue Dragon Children’s Foundation. Partnering with Eurail, Intrepid supported European communities and NGOs by receiving €10 for every Eurail and Interrail Pass sold during a November promotion, aiding its seven local NGO partners.
The ‘Journeys That Make a Difference’ campaign contributed £225,000 towards community causes, benefiting organisations such as Cooperativa Coraggio in Italy, Humana Zagreb in Croatia, and Refood in Portugal. Intrepid’s Managing Director, Zina Bencheikh, reflected on the impact, narrating how they witnessed firsthand the unity and resilience of local teams during crises like the Moroccan earthquake. Zina Bencheikh emphasised the foundation’s role in meeting the needs of vulnerable communities, such as those in the High Atlas Mountains.
The Intrepid Foundation intends not only to fulfil its £500,000 company pledge but also to further raise an additional £1 million through travellers’ contributions in 2024. By introducing customers to these local initiatives, Intrepid hopes to bridge a vital gap, fostering a sense of community and reciprocity throughout their travels.
Intrepid Travel’s substantial donations in 2024 underscore its commitment to meaningful community development and traveller engagement.
