TTAND Giving Back Holiday Contest is an Annual Hit: Here’s What Some Members Are Doing

Throughout the year, the Travel Agent Next Door community organizes events, contests, fitness challenges and other initiatives to engage the community of employees and agent partners. Prizes are awarded and the TTAND community celebrates the winners.

In the December holiday season, there are four weeks of holiday challenges and the first of these was held last week — Giving Back through Travel.

Agents were invited to share how they or their clients give back to their community through travel. This can include donating to a cause, volunteering at an organization, or working with a non-profit to make the community better.

Here are some examples of the many entries from generous TTAND agent partners: 

Shane Dirk: Giving Back in Medicine Hat

“I am a member of the Kinsmen Club Medicine Hat. We are a non-profit organization that donate a lot of our time to raise money to donate it back to our community. Like free public skating, free swimming for kids. Large donation to a women’s shelter, special needs programs, local sport teams, parks, and so much more. I was very honoured to receive the Rookie of the Year award recently.” 

Tina Shank: Supporting Hill Tribes in Thailand
“I have been knitting and crocheting blankets and dresses for hill tribes outside Hua Hin Thailand. I have just completed blankets 3 & 4. And three dresses this past few months. When we think of Thailand we think of weather but up in the jungle it gets pretty cold at night.”

Dianne Marsden: Promoting Sustainability

“I help by bringing awareness and to inspire others to be part of the change. I believe that making the world a better place starts with us. Through my work in travel and in the community, I try to inspire and support actions that “Make Earth Good Always.”

I’m also excited to share that I’m now preparing special kits about sustainability to provide to schools, travellers, and community members. The message is simple: big change starts with small, everyday actions. By being mindful, kind, and proactive, we can make the world a better place for all.  This includes:

• Bringing awareness to travellers about sustainable travel choices.
• Showing kindness and acceptance to everyone we meet.
• Delivering humanitarian aid to communities in need.
• Cleaning beaches and protecting nature.
• Educating about our environment and ways to care for our planet.
• …it’s all part of creating a ripple effect of positive change.”

 Candace Steil: Travel Accessory Donations 

“I give to many organizations over the year, including the Ben Stelter Foundation (raising money for kids with cancer) and the REALTORS Community Foundation (funds safe and accessible housing). I also donate to local fundraisers for kids’ sports. Typically suitcases as shown with bag tags, a travel cup, travel sized bottles, and passport covers.”

Charlene Richmond: Uganda Orphanage Volunteer

“I am often asked by clients if they can bring anything when they travel. I let them know that toiletries are often needed, treats are always appreciated but oftentimes their tips make a big difference. Personally I volunteered in an orphanage in Uganda for many years and had sponsors for the children. I used to go to the orphanage at least twice a year to stay.”

Shawna Kontzie: Adopt a Grandma

“Last year we did “adopt a grandma” at the seniors home and “adopt a family” with Santa’s Anonymous. We plan to do the same this year.”

Veronica VanCooten: Help for Jamaica

“Sending ‘barrels’ back home is such a big part of Caribbean culture. After Hurricane Melissa’s impact in Jamaica, a few of us TTAND agents are putting together a barrel with clothes and supplies for families in need. It’s a small gesture, but it can make a big difference.”