Travelers' Philanthropy Handbook - Center for Responsible Travel

Readiness Check List for BusinessesBy Judy Kepher-GonaChief Executive Officer, Basecamp Foundation• Step 1- Knowledge of the AreaThe first step towards having a travelers’ philanthropy program is to have thorough socioeconomic,cultural and environmental knowledge of the area. It takes years of engagement inand positive interaction with host communities to know an area. Mistakes are made whenoperators accept support from guests towards perceived needs of the community, based onobservations from a two-day safari. If an operator isnot informed and ready, they should decline suchoffers or channel them through agencies that offersupport in identifying viable projects.• Step 2- Demonstrate Good LeadershipGood leadership is achieved through positiveinteractions with community and otherstakeholders. It requires transparent relationships,an objective approach to matters of concern tocommunity, open expression of both intentions andviews on matters of interest, respect for localcultures and learning with the community, and acommitment to promoting equity and goodgovernance. Providing good leadership creates,builds, nurtures, and sustains trust. As you get toknow an area where your company wants to work,provide a chance for the community to know andappreciate your business and its approach tocommunity engagement. Engage and win the trustof the community through activities such as annual‘community days’ where you give communitymembers an account of the business’ performance.Enter into long term partnership agreements tocommunicate your commitment and mentorcommunity champions to demonstrate your desirefor local leadership to prosper.Tibetan Children's Village, Dharamsala, India.Credit: Stefan Norris• Step 3 – Invest in Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) ProjectsTest your business’ readiness and it relationship with the community through a few selectedCSR projects. This serves two purposes. First it demonstrates the commitment of your businessas a social investor. Second it provides opportunity to gauge local leadership and investigatecultural dynamics that may not have been obvious through your prior interactions. The CSRprojects should be low investment, short-term projects with tangible outcomes. Engage thecommunity in planning these projects and allow residents to make contributions in cash or in159