Why I Support the Destinations International Foundation
DI Members
"Innovation comes from taking risks. Funds contributed to the DI Foundation allow DI to go beyond what education, resources and supports we understand our members need right now – they allow us to ideate, test and invest in bold new directions. The world and our work are in perpetual evolution – a donation to your DI Foundation means we have the dexterity to try something new and the stability to always be there."
VICTORIA CLARKE
CEO
Visit Mississauga
"The Destinations International Foundation fills an integral need in the tourism industry by supporting destinations around the globe. The research and toolkits that are created by the Foundation have a significant impact on destinations, the different challenges they each face and setting up destinations for future success. The Foundation’s ability to pivot as needs arise while focusing on and planning for the future ensures that destinations are best prepared for whatever circumstance they may face. The Foundation has become a trusted resource for destinations worldwide."
ELLIE WESTMAN CHIN, CDME
President & CEO
Destination Madison
"The Destinations International Foundation plays a critical role in preserving and advancing the hospitality industry. As the industry's hub for thought leadership, the Foundation supports accreditation and certification programs, produces forward-thinking initiatives like the Futures Study and DestinationNEXT, and fosters talent through scholarships and the 30 Under 30 program. It also strengthens the community by uniting members through impactful fundraising efforts. The Foundation is a vital partner to Destinations International, driving innovation and sustainability across the destination marketing industry."
RENÉE ARENG, CDME
President & CEO
Explore Brookhaven
DI Partners
"As the founding partner of the 30 Under 30 program, we truly appreciate the DI Foundation's pivotal role in nurturing the next generation of industry leaders. Their valuable resources and tools not only support professional growth but also inspire innovation and ensure a vibrant future for our industry."
MIKE GAMBLE
Partner
SearchWide Global
“My team and I value the Destinations International Foundation for its focus on innovation. The work undertaken by the Foundation provides insights and actionable steps into what is important to our industry—now and in the future. From marketing and promotion resources to research and data around key areas such as community stewardship and social inclusion, to important scholarship programs that help prepare the next generation of leaders, the Foundation keeps our industry at the forefront of opportunity and growth.”
DAVID BURGESS
President & CEO
Miles Partnership
"The Destinations International Foundation plays a vital role in inspiring and supporting cutting-edge thought leadership for our field. The Futures Study, the annual Resident Sentiment study, the Catalyst study and many other research initiatives were originally conceived of and funded through the Foundation. The body of work helps guide our organizations to being more attentive to both production of business and alignment with our communities. I am proud to personally contribute to this important cause."
DAVID HOLDER, CDME
Principal
Clarity of Place
Foundation Scholarships
Small Destination Scholarships
The Destinations International Foundation is pleased to offer eligible employees of small destination organizations ($3Million or less operating budgets) opportunities for registration scholarships to attend Destinations International's Annual Convention and summits.
"The scholarship program is so important because for organizations like ours with a smaller budget, it allows more of our team to be able to join us at the conference. That means we all get the continuing education that's important, we can all network, and then when we get back into the office, we can all implement what we learned."
AMANDA ECKELBARGER
Director of Strategic Initiatives
Elkhart County Convention & Visitors Bureau
Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) Scholarship
Recognizing the importance of access and opportunity for education and career advancement, the Destinations International Foundation HBCU Scholarship provides $8,000 in tuition assistance, access to professional development opportunities and the opportunity to participate in the Destinations International Annual Convention.
"I am grateful to everyone who took the time to answer my questions and share their experiences in their DMOs and the tourism industry overall. I've learned a lot from them and appreciate the life lessons they've passed on to me, whether it's about regrets from their youth or opportunities for me to get involved in the tourism sector in my area."
HANNAH WEISS
Hospitality & Tourism Management | DSU College of Business
"This scholarship has truly made my college experience more meaningful. It's lifted some of the financial pressure, giving me the freedom to focus on my classes, allowing me to excel in my leadership roles. It has allowed me to stay motivated to keep pushing forward, knowing that there are people that believe in me. I now feel even more inspired to make a difference in the travel and tourism industry."
MYA MENDOZA
Hospitality Management | Morgan State University
CDME and Global Scholarships
The Destinations International Foundation is proud to offer scholarships to employees of small destination organizations to attend Certified Destination Management Executive (CDME) courses. We also proudly offer Global Scholarships to attend Annual Convention. Testimonials coming soon.
30 Under 30
"Foundation support is so important. Not only does it enable people like me to enjoy their first Convention experience, but also it leads the way to so many initiatives that DI and 30 Under 30 alums like myself have tried to implement. They first come through the Foundation and they've enabled development of new programs and initiatives that have come from both young professionals and veteran leaders in our industry."
BARRY DRAPER
Director of Partnerships
Explore St. Louis
"The 30under30 program was an incredible kickstart to my career. Because of the program, I was able to see outside of the small town I worked in, and connect with people from around the world, making me not only a better employee, but a more well-rounded travel professional. If it were not for the work of the DI Foundation, that engagement and connection within the industry would not be possible. I support the foundation because the foundation helps drive our industry forward, through 30 under 30, through research and studies, and through advocacy."
JEREMIAH COOK, CDME, CMP
Assistant Director, Tourism
Visit College Station
"Participating in Destination International's 30u30 program has been a transformative experience, connecting me with visionary leaders and fellow young professionals who inspire innovation and collaboration. The knowledge, skills, and networks I've gained have not only deepened my passion for the tourism industry but also empowered me to make a meaningful impact in shaping its future."
ANONYMOUS 30 UNDER 30 PARTICIPANT
Foundation Auctions
"As a partner of Destinations International, I wholeheartedly believe that it is important to give back and support the future of the industry! One of the greatest things about Destinations International and this industry is the camaraderie that exists among the membership! For those two reasons, over the past seven years, I have supported the Destinations International Foundation Silent Auctions by donating a multicourse dinner for the winning bidder and a designated number of their guests in the destination of their choice. The winners of those dinners have used them for everything from client dinners to team dinners to birthday dinners to dinners with colleagues, etc. Everyone that I have had the pleasure of hosting for these winning bidders have been such enjoyable experiences as the only way to truly get to know folks is when you travel with them and when you break bread with them! Many new friendships have come as a result of these dinners! …And the best part is, they have raised thousands of dollars to support the essential work of the Destinations International Foundation! A truly wonderful win-win!"
AMIR EYLON
President & CEO
Longwoods International