Ker & Downey Philanthropy

Whether your passion for travel takes you to Africa, India, South America, or all points in between, there is one common thread that we all have – a curiosity to see the world and learn about other places, people, and cultures. With over four decades in the travel industry, Ker & Downey has seen first hand how tourism dollars support local and international economies and people. However, not all tourism dollars trickle down to those who need it the most.

It has been our philosophy at Ker & Downey to “give back” in ways that are far more personal and powerful than tourism dollars. Many of our clients, upon their return from their destinations, have asked, “What can we do to help?” Below is a list of organizations we are particularly passionate about, plus some ideas for ways you can make a real, positive impact on the lives in a community.

Our Conservation Projects:


  • Uganda Home of Hope Foundation

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    Based outside of Kampala, Uganda, this project truly provides hope to at-risk children in the community. Taking care of basic needs and providing a safe haven from turbulent home lives allows the children of UHHF to pursue their secondary education… Read More

  • Nets for Africa

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    Ker & Downey’s president David Marek has made serving the impoverished communities of Uganda his passion. Through annual mission trips we provide countless blood tests, doctor visits, and distribute clothing and supplies, including thousands of mosquito nets… Read More

  • Cheetah Conservation Fund

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    The world’s fastest land animal, the cheetah, can reach speeds of 70 mph. It is also the most endangered cat in Africa. As one of Namibia’s leading centers for conservation of the cheetah, CCF provides medical care and rehabilitation to wild cheetahs, and a lifelong safe haven for cheetahs who are unable to return to the wild… Read More

  • Encounter the Elephants

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    With the ever-increasing human populations, space for an increasing elephant population in Southern Africa has steadily declined. As a result more and more questions on whether an increase in elephant numbers will lead to the ultimate destruction of an area have been asked in recent times… Read More

  • Grootbos Foundation - Green Futures

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    The story of Green Futures is one of good news and hope in which unemployed people can find a new and exciting future in fynbos landscaping and conservation. Whether staying at Grootbos or not, a tree is planted in Grootbos’ Ker & Downey Forest for each of our clients traveling to South Africa… Read More

  • Endangered Species Art

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    Welcome to the world of A.E. London, her art, and her passion for conservation. Following a different path led her to work for Tippi Hedren, founder of Shambala – a refuge for big cats, elephants, and many others… Read More

  • Bana Ba Letsatsi

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    Based in Maun, Northern Botswana, this center supports over 250 vulnerable, at-risk, and orphaned children and youths. Some of the children have never been to school or dropped out early… Read More

  • IChooseYou Ministries

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    On the outskirts of Mbale, Uganda, lies the small village of Namatala, inhabited by the Karamojong tribe. Over time, more than 700 men, women, and children have migrated here as a last resort… Read More

  • Manna From Heaven

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    A community outreach program based in Botswana whose mission is to provide love, healing, and hope to the poor, sick, and terminally ill. Food, clothing, cash donations for orphans, and medical supplies – the need is beyond description… Read More