Leilena and Ian’s Story – Carry-On to Cabo

By Leilena Reyes on June 28, 2021 | Comment

My husband and I first learned about Pack for a Purpose in 2019 as we researched safari lodging in Krueger National Park, South Africa. Reading about the accommodation’s partnership with Pack for a Purpose as well as their own charitable initiative, Pride ‘n Purpose made our decision to stay at Ulusaba an easy one.

Ian and Leilena

We thought packing a few kilograms of supplies in our luggage to positively impact the local community was a brilliant idea. When I returned home, I updated my AmazonSmile charitable organization to Pack for a Purpose. As an eligible 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, I nominated PfaP for my employer’s annual giving campaign to match employee donations.

Meeting with Nicki Van Den Auwelant, General Manager of Sandos Finisterra

When we planned our first post-pandemic trip to Los Cabos in 2021, we wanted to participate in PfaP again. Unfortunately, we weren’t planning to stay at the resort accommodation partnering with PfaP and wouldn’t have a rental car. On a whim, I read the FAQs on PfaP’s website in hopes that we could still participate.

When I emailed to inquire about a pick-up, Rebecca responded promptly and introduced us to the Sandos Foundation team and General Manager of Sandos Finisterra, Nicki. Not only were they willing to take time out of their busy day to pick up our donations, they were flexible with scheduling, eager to tell us about the children they work with, and followed up to share several photos of the delivery to Equinoterapias Hossana, A.C.

They packed the school supplies, clothes, and games into the backpacks to personalize items for each child. Thanks to PfaP and their incredible partnerships, we’re given the opportunity to learn about responsible tourism and participate in meaningful travel once again. Our friends sent us packing with gently used clothes and toys from their kiddos too. We’re grateful the opportunity to Pack for a Purpose and meet local organizations who make a difference in the communities in which we travel.