Another reason I’m so excited to be a part of this company is because G Adventures is always giving back to communities, leaving an impact and making a difference!
Here at G we have a motto: G for Good. One of the ways we do good is through our partnership with Planeterra. Planeterra is a non-profit organization funded by G Adventures. Together they believe in sustainable tourism. The idea is that when tourists visit an area they will make only a positive impact on that local community. For example, one should not just see the world. They should make it better. Planeterra helps facilitate this by supportiving and providing communities with the resources they need to become self sufficient. In doing so, they also help keep the local traditions alive.
Let me give you an example of a Planeterra project that I had the opportunity to visit. The Women’s Weaving Co-op in Peru. Upon arriving at the co-op you are greeting by a woman dressed in her native clothing. She explains the local lifestyle, but only speaks the native Quecha language which is translated to English. Next, you say hi to the adorable alpaca as you make your way to a weaving demonstration. A woman shows how the wool is cleaned, spun, colored and weaved. After the demonstration you are free to purchase handmade sweaters, hats, mittens, purses, blankets and more. It’s such a neat cultural experience to hear the language, learn about local living and purchase traditional handmade goods. It’s great to see the smiles on the women’s faces and to know that Planeterra has positively impacted their lives.
Here in the United States we currently do not have any Planeterra projects. However, Planeterra is running a campaign called 50 in 5. The goal is to start 50 new projects over 5 years. They are currently looking for a community in the states. Hopefully, by the end of the campaign a U.S. Planeterra project will exist!
On the road, we will keep a jug at the front of the bus so travelers have to opportunity to get rid of those pesky coins while helping a great cause! We will also encourage the Planeterra Challenge. What’s that, you ask? Well, our travelers can think of crazy things they want us to do such as wear underwear on our heads or wear my crazy cow hoof all day. The travelers name a price for the challenge and raise the money. The CEOs complete the challenge and donate the money to Planeterra. It’s a win win! A good laugh for a great cause!
Are you interested in learning more or possibly making a donation? You can simply visit the website! www.planeterra.org
“Don’t just see the world. Make it better.” -Daniel Sendecki
#gforgood #planeterrachallenge #sustainabletourism #positivelyimpactingcommunities #gculture
