Applied to:
This award recognizes exceptional actions in the field of social responsibility, including diversity, inclusion and governance that have positively impacted the community, local populations, employees, and/or tourists as well as business sites in the hospitality industry. The winning action or program will have demonstrated a deep commitment to social responsibility and governance through innovative initiatives, effective management practices, and measurable outcomes that have positively impacted stakeholders. This award recognizes programs that have made significant contributions towards creating a more inclusive, equitable, and responsible industry.
The project:
Dollars for Deeds, launched by Minor Hotels in January 2015, is a pioneering initiative aimed at empowering guests at Anantara and Avani hotels across Asia to support local communities and environmental conservation efforts. Guests are invited to donate one dollar per night of their stay, matched by Minor Hotels for hotels owned within Thailand, and then donated to selected local charities aligned with Minor’s Sustainability Pillars: "Empowering People" and "Conserving Nature."
Initially introduced in Thailand, the program has expanded globally across the Minor Hotels portfolio, including the integration of the Avani brand and upcoming launches in Europe. Each hotel selects charities relevant to its community, such as Avani+ Luang Prabang Hotel supporting Laos Friends Hospital for Children. The program’s innovation lies in its matching donations within Thailand, doubling guest contributions, and its strategic alignment with local foundations, ensuring impactful donations.
Key objectives include encouraging guest engagement in social and environmental causes, fundraising for local charities, and ensuring donations directly benefit communities and nature. Dollars for Deeds exemplifies responsible tourism, bridging the gap between travelers and meaningful projects.
Implementation is overseen by the Minor Hotels Group Director of Sustainability and Conservation, with hotels collaborating directly with local charities. Monitoring and evaluation are conducted through key performance indicators (KPIs), ensuring the program’s effectiveness and alignment with sustainability goals.
Overall, Dollars for Deeds continues to successfully engage guests, support local communities, and uphold Minor Hotels’ commitment to sustainable development through impactful social and environmental initiatives.
The Hospitality Awards celebrate innovation and excellence and highlight the most creative initiatives in a sector that is constantly and rapidly changing hospitality.
