Philanthropy and Charitable Organizations
Ker & Downey Foundation
Travel begins with curiosity; a desire to see the world more clearly and to understand it more deeply. For decades, Ker & Downey has witnessed the extraordinary ways travel can uplift communities and sustain local economies. Yet we also recognize that meaningful impact requires more than presence alone.
Giving back is not an initiative for us but a responsibility.
The Ker & Downey Foundation, our 501(c)(3) nonprofit philanthropic arm, was established to ensure that the places that welcome our travelers are supported with intention and care. Through trusted partnerships around the world, the Foundation invests in community-led initiatives that provide essential resources, expand opportunity, and strengthen long-term resilience.
Our Legacy
Africa is where Ker & Downey’s story began, shaping both our perspective and our purpose. In the wake of 9/11 and the global economic downturn that followed, President David Marek recognized that the needs within the communities we serve far surpassed traditional efforts. From that conviction, our philanthropic mission formally took root, growing into what is now the Ker & Downey Foundation.
Today, our commitment extends across continents, guided by the belief that travel, when approached thoughtfully, can contribute to a more balanced and flourishing world.
An Invitation to Make an Impact
For those who feel inspired to give, contributions may be made during the final payment process. We ensure that 100% of every donation is directed to the community or project with the greatest need.
We also welcome conversations about incorporating meaningful philanthropic engagement into your bespoke journey.
Below is a list of philanthropy and charitable organizations we are particularly passionate about, plus some ideas for ways you can make a real, positive impact on the lives in a community.
Bana Ba Letsatsi
In Northern Botswana, we partner with Bana Ba Letsatsi, a remarkable center founded in 2002 that has become a lifeline for over 250 vulnerable, at-risk, and orphaned children and youth in Maun. Many of these children have never attended school or dropped out early, while others face physical and sexual abuse, substance abuse, underage labor, and lack of parental care.
Bana Ba Letsatsi provides a safe haven where children receive education, counseling, food, medical attention, and skills training. The center also addresses basic needs often taken for granted—clothing, shoes, showers, and haircuts—that restore dignity alongside hope.
For every trip booked to Southern Africa with Ker & Downey, a portion of the proceeds will go directly to Bana Ba Letsatsti to support their programs.
Learn More About Bana Ba Letsatsi
Ripples Foundation
The Ripples Foundation is a Ugandan-based charity that embodies the belief that while one person may not create substantial societal impact alone, joint efforts through acts of love and kindness create a greater ripple effect throughout communities.
Through our partnership with Ripples Foundation, Ker & Downey has sponsored 36 students to receive education and school supplies over the years. Many of these children have gone on to attend university and post-graduate trade schools, breaking cycles of poverty and creating new opportunities for their families and communities.
For every trip booked with Ker & Downey, a portion of the proceeds will go directly to the Ker & Downey Foundation to support the Ripples Foundation.
Learn More About the Ripples Foundation
Galo Plaza Lasso Foundation
The Galo Plaza Lasso Foundation was established in 1995 to honor the lasting legacy of former Ecuadorian president, Galo Plaza Lasso. Lasso was the first to introduce rural education to Ecuador, starting schools in his properties in the late 1940s. Then in the 1960s he created embroidery programs to add supplemental household income. He tirelessly promoted the conservation of the country’s native forests. Today, The Galo Plaza Lasso Foundation strives to build upon his foundation through improving the educational, environmental, and socioeconomic well-being of the Zuleta community and outlying areas within Ecuador’s Imbabura province.
For every trip booked to South America with Ker & Downey, a portion of the proceeds will go directly to Galo Plaza Lasso to support their conservation programs.
Learn More About the Galo Plaza Lasso Foundation
ABOUTAsia Scholarships
ABOUTAsia Travel funds scholarships for those who need help with access to higher education. These scholarships fund hospitality and tourism education at the École d’Hôtellerie et de Tourisme Paul Dubrule, one of the most prestigious schools in Cambodia. Graduating from this program allows for a higher income, greater employment opportunities, and the chance to work with ABOUTAsia Travel in the future.
Every custom Ker & Downey journey to Asia supports these scholarships by way of ABOUTAsia Travel. This incredible company donates 100% of its profits to support higher education in the region.
Learn More About ABOUTAsia Scholarships
Brooke USA Foundation
The Brooke USA Foundation raises funds to support a wide variety of worldwide programs whose aim is to improve the lives of working horses, donkeys, and mules, and the people who rely on them. One program they support is Brooke Egypt, which provides veterinary treatments through five free-standing clinics and 25 mobile clinics, reaching approximately 220,000 working horses, donkeys, and mules. The long-term strategy is to create behavioral change in animal owners, users, and other stakeholders regarding animal welfare — raising awareness through school visits, partnering with universities, working with rural guides, and a wide range of partner nonprofits.
For every trip booked to North Africa and the Middle East, a portion will be donated to Brooke USA to support the foundation’s mission.
Learn More About Brooke USA Foundation
Lewa Wildlife Conservancy
Lewa Wildlife Conservancy (LWC) is a wildlife sanctuary sprawling from the slopes of Mount Kenya towards the northern rangelands of Kenya, in East Africa. The conservancy is part of the UNESCO Mt. Kenya World Heritage Site, a Man & Biosphere Reserve, that has been green listed by the IUCN, and recognized as a Key Biodiversity Area, for excellence in protected area management. Ker & Downey World Travel is proud to partner with LWC’s conservation efforts towards protecting two of Kenya’s endangered species.
For every trip booked to East Africa with Ker & Downey, a portion of the proceeds will go directly to Lewa to support their conservation programs.
Learn More About Lewa Wildlife Conservancy
Additional Partners
Ker & Downey partners with many worthwhile organizations across the globe. Each of these vetted partners makes an important impact in the community they serve.
Explore More of Ker & Downey's Philanthropic PartnersJoin Us in Giving Back
Your donation—no matter the size—creates lasting impact in the regions we love and explore. Help us change the world, one journey at a time.