The big ask: A Kilimanjaro pledge

I’ve written a lot about purposeful travel over the years, and I'd like to take that concept to new heights, literally and figuratively.

#KiliCares is a pledge drive to raise money for the industry nonprofit Tourism Cares as I climb Mt. Kilimanjaro in early January.

I’m on the board of Tourism Cares, and have seen first-hand how it has helped tourism-related workers, businesses and sites recover from natural disasters.

It provides scholarships to needy students seeking a career in travel. And it supports social enterprises by providing grants, guidance and connections that create jobs, keep dollars local and preserve traditional customs and cultures.

Those of us in the travel industry know how lucky we are – I can’t imagine there’s a more personally rewarding for-profit industry in existence.

But to paraphrase Peter Parker’s Uncle Ben: With great personal benefits come great personal obligations. To only reap the advantages of a life in travel falls short. Giving back completes the journey.

Agree? Support my climb and donate here.

Special thanks go to climb sponsors Tusker Trail and Northstar Travel Group.