On March 21st, I wrote about a foundation that Sandals created that supports, and gives back, to the people of the islands that Sandals properties are located on. Today, I discovered that Couples Resorts also has a foundation, the ISSA Trust Foundation. Couples' non-profit organization was created in 2005, and helps support Jamaica's people through medical missions, and educational projects. (Unlike Sandals, the four Couples resorts are all located on Jamaica). Thus, the ISSA Foundation is solely dedicated to helping Jamaicans.
I fell in love with Jamaica when I first traveled there in 2004, but I was struck by the amount of poverty in the communities. It is so rewarding to know that the "big players" in American tourist resorts are also giving back to the island communities that their facilities are located on. The island residents deserve our support.
I encourage those of you who travel to these countries to give something back in return. If you stay at a Sandals or Beaches resort, I encourage you to make a donation to their foundation. For Couples visitors, please consider making a donation to the ISSA Trust Foundation. I think traveling to these countries is wonderful, but I also think that showing we care, only adds to the enriching experience that traveling creates for us blessed enough to travel.
