Pack for a Purpose
Traveling with Compassion.
Proudly published in Lake Oswego Lifestyle Magazine as part of our ongoing community travel column.
In the heart of every traveler lies the potential to not just explore but to positively impact the communities they visit. At Travel & Cruise Desk, we believe that travel has the power to bridge cultures, foster understanding, and contribute meaningfully to local communities. With this spirit, we would like to introduce you to “Pack for a Purpose.”
This initiative transforms the simple act of packing for your trip into a gesture of goodwill and compassion. This national non-profit has teamed up with organizations and hotel partners in destinations all over the world. These contacts inform the charity of what is most needed and the lists are posted at packforapurpose.org. Travelers can then use a small amount of space in their luggage to pack items needed by community projects around the world. It is an easy process, and in most cases these are basic supplies, so an inexpensive visit to a Dollar Store will provide enough items to make a significant difference.
The Scale: What is truly special about the idea behind “Pack for a Purpose” is its flexibility and reach. The concept is adaptable even if your destination or hotel is not listed on this specific site. There are ways your local travel professional can help connect you with an in-country contact to identify the most needed supplies for that specific location.
Take Maui for example. The destination is not listed, but we know that displaced families from Lahaina are in the process of transitioning to long-term housing. Right now, their most needed items include towels, bathroom supplies, and items for the kitchen. No matter which destination, and whether it is school supplies, medical resources, or pet care items, your contribution will make a meaningful difference to a community in need.
Our Example: My wife and I recently embarked on a memorable journey to Cartagena, a city renowned for its historical beauty and vibrant culture. Before departing, we looked up the destination at packforapurpose.org and found that there are two charities currently listed and accepting donated items in this destination. We decided to pack extra pet supplies, including flea and tick meds, bandages, chew toys, and dog collars for “Paws for Cartagena,” a program dedicated to the welfare of street animals.
The process was effortless and added more to our experience than we could have imagined. Not only did we feel good about contributing to the well-being of animals in need, but we also had the unique opportunity to meet the remarkable woman behind “Paws for Cartagena,” Jennifer Ponsford. As it turned out, like me, she is originally from Scotland. I initially thought that this was such a remarkable coincidence, given that we were on the other side of the world, but I have come to realize that programs like these really help uncover those underlying links that are always there but often go unseen.
The experience not only offered us this authentic connection but a chance to talk with a familiar local in an unfamiliar destination about their favorite sites, restaurant suggestions, and more.
Your Invitation: We invite you to consider “Pack for a Purpose” for your next trip. In return, we believe that the joy of giving back and the enriching experience of connecting with locals will elevate your journey to more than just a vacation. Whether you book with us, another travel service, or on your own, you can embrace a travel philosophy that values compassion, connection, and the desire to make a difference. Join in this journey of purposeful travel, and together let us create experiences that make a difference.
