With 20 years of helping promote and facilitate “a better kind of travel,” Planeterra is launching a new campaign to raise funds in support of another “20 years of impact.”

The Toronto-based non-profit, affiliated with G Adventures – both organizations founded by Bruce Poon Tip – is aiming to raise $500,000 from the campaign towards it ongoing aim of “uplifting communities through travel.”

The campaign was kickstarted in May with support from staff at G Adventures, who took the lead as the first group committing to raise $20,000 in support of Planeterra.

“Remarkably, they achieved their goal in less than a week and went on to raise an impressive $100,000 demonstrating their unwavering support for Planeterra’s mission,” reported Planeterra.

Funds raised through the campaign will be directed towards supporting Planeterra’s global initiatives, including the growth of the Global Community Tourism Network, investments in community tourism enterprise development, and efforts to address the pressing climate and biodiversity crises.

The organization says it aims to build on its achievements and expand its reach to make “an even greater positive impact on communities and the environment.”

Since its inception in 2003, Planeterra has been committed to using tourism as a force for good, over the years investing millions of dollars in community tourism enterprises that protect cultural heritage and natural resources. By investing in community tourism enterprises and supporting community-led projects, Planeterra helps create opportunities for individuals to support their own livelihoods while also protecting their cultural heritage and natural resources.

“Planeterra’s 20th anniversary is a testament to the incredible impact we have made in uplifting communities worldwide through tourism,” said Planeterra President Jamie Sweeting, adding, “This anniversary is not only a celebration but also a reminder of the incredible potential of community tourism. Together, we can shape a better future for communities and travellers alike.”

The 20th-anniversary celebration will culminate in the first-ever World Community Tourism Summit, scheduled to take place on Sept. 27 in Peru – the birthplace of Planeterra’s inaugural community tourism enterprise. The summit will gather tourism industry leaders, media professionals, passionate travellers, and innovative thinkers to experience the transformative power of community tourism firsthand.

Through their support, Planeterra says individuals and organizations have the opportunity to contribute to a more inclusive and sustainable form of tourism – one that benefits everyone involved.

“This campaign represents a significant milestone for Planeterra,” says Planeterra’s Director of Partnerships and Development, Tricia Schers. “It allows us to strengthen our commitment to communities worldwide and support sustainable tourism initiatives that generate lasting social, economic, and environmental benefits. We invite individuals and organizations who share our vision to join us in supporting the next 20 years of transformative change.”

For more information on how to get involved, contact Planeterra at info@planeterra.org or visit www.planeterra.org.