The new travel philanthropy partnership resulted from guests of the lodge asking if they could make a contribution to something local that would become part of their experience at the property. Marasa approached USAID-STAR for help in creating such a program.  Out of this dialogue was born the “$1 For the Future” Campaign. 

How it works:  The initiativewill invite guests of Mweya Safari Lodge to donate, on a voluntary basis, $1 a day per length of stay to help repair and re-construct one school in its pilot year.  The program includes creating murals in the school themed around conservation. To bring home the importance of conservation and sustainable tourism, the Wildlife Clubs of Uganda, a non-sectarian society of young people’s environmental clubs, will visit the school to instruct pupils on the values of protecting wildlife.

The “$1 for the Future” Campaign is a part of Marasa Africa’s larger commitment to benefit some of the most sought-after, pristine destinations in East Africa through conservation practices and improving livelihoods

Another initiative that Marasa supports is “Pack for a Purpose”- a not-for-profit organization that suggests to tourists they use available space in their luggage to bring school and medical supplies to needy communities abroad. Their message is simple: Pack five pounds -- 400 pencils; five deflated soccer balls (along with an inflation device); a stethoscope, a blood pressure cuff and 500 band-aids -- and you will bring wide smiles to some of the world’s neediest children.

Education and Conservation in East Africa are key values of Marasa.  The “$1 For the Future” Campaign and Pack For a Purpose highlight ways tourism can directly support conservation and education in ways that benefit all.

For more information, visit www.marasa.net.

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