SILVER SPRING, MD.—Choice Hotels International is doubling its philanthropic contributions in 2009. Heading into the busiest fundraising time of year, nonprofits are feeling the pinch of the economic downturn. Charitable giving fell last year by the largest percentage in five decades, according to a study by the Giving USA Foundation. The Foundation Center expects foundation giving to decrease 8 to 13 percent this year.
Despite the recession, Choice Hotels will increase its charitable donations by 55 percent this year over last. With Americans struggling from job losses and rising prices for household necessities, the company focuses its giving on organizations that support basic human needs, such as food, clothing and shelter. Under the auspices of the Choice Hotels International Foundation, the company has formed an alliance with Rebuilding Together, the nation’s leading nonprofit working to revitalize communities and preserve affordable homeownership.
Through this multi-year campaign, Choice Hotels will partner with Rebuilding Together, kicking off with 20 projects this fall. Projects are located across the United States, from Hartford, Atlanta and Miami to Detroit, Dallas and Monterey. More than 700 Choice volunteers will pick up hammers, nails and wrenches, repairing homes, shelters and nonprofit organizations. They will contribute more than 5,000 volunteer hours. Believing charity begins at home, Choice is focusing its efforts in the communities where its associates and hotel owners and operators live and work.
Choice Hotels volunteers are rolling up their sleeves and making significant contributions that include: replacing HVAC systems; repairing leaky roofs, bathtubs and stairways; tearing out old kitchens and putting in new sinks, cabinets, countertops, flooring and energy-efficient appliances; installing new windows, handrails, grab bars and smoke detectors; building closets; and weatherizing homes.
“We’re proud to increase our philanthropic support and partner with Rebuilding Together,” says Kelly Kane, executive director, Choice Hotels International Foundation. “Low-income homeowners face tremendous challenges today. Our partnership with Rebuilding Together gives us a great opportunity to get involved in dozens of projects from coast to coast and make a real difference in our communities and in the lives of the people who live there.”
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