Giving Back at the WildAid Gala 2018

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WildAid’s star-studded Hollywood gala brought out LA’s stylish and conservation-minded set to support the organization and bid on a Ker & Downey journey to New Zealand. Read on to learn about our impact at the WildAid Gala 2018.

What is WildAid?

WildAid’s mission is focused on conservation and education with the aim of reducing global consumption of rhino horns and elephant ivory. Their message is “When the Buying Stops, the Killing Can Too.” Ker & Downey joins a whole roster of celebrities in backing this goal, giving WildAid the needed momentum to continue to spread the word about their efforts. WildAid’s Corie Knights says that the illicit wildlife trade is threatening elephant numbers at an alarming rate; some 33,000 are killed yearly for the ivory trade. An African safari would not be the same without seeing these majestic creatures in the wild.

What happened at the WildAid Gala 2018?

Close to 640 guests attended the glamorous gala at the Beverly Wilshire Four Seasons Hotel and helped to raise some $2.4 million dollars for WildAid’s programs. Personalities like Maggie Q, Bo Derek, and Josh Duhamel, a WildAid Ambassador, added to the glitz. Our own Michelle Nicholson joined in the fun, too!

Actress Bryce Dallas Howard of Jurassic World was honored at the Gala for being a WildAid Wildlife Champion. Howard is also an ambassador for New Zealand, working on a number of projects with Tourism New Zealand and National Geographic, including a six-part miniseries about the diverse country. American-Zimbabwean actress Danai Gurira of Black Panther was also honored as a WildAid Wildlife Champion at the event.

How did Ker & Downey help?

To help raise funds, a customized New Zealand journey arranged by Ker & Downey was auctioned off at the WildAid Gala 2018. This itinerary drops you right into the heart of the country’s raw beauty. Explore Kauri Cliffs, cruise on the world’s largest crater lake, and take helicopter rides over the fjords. Guests will also stay in celebrated boutique properties, sampling fine wine and dining on delectable cuisine.

Ker & Downey is proud to continue to support WildAid at home and abroad. Many thanks to ID New Zealand, Cape Kidnapper’s, Huka Retreats, Bay of Many Coves, and Blanket Bay for contributing to this cause alongside Ker & Downey.

The winning bidders of the New Zealand journey at the WildAid Gala 2018 will get to enjoy their trip in 2019. Find out how you can plan your own exciting trip to New Zealand by contacting your Ker & Downey travel designer.

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