In its simplest form, “to inspire” is defined as the action or power of moving intellect or emotions. The Sandals Foundation believes that the action of inspiring hope is a force that can move mountains.
The Sandals Foundation is a non-profit organization (and CTA registered charity in Canada) that was formed in March 2009 to help Sandals Resorts International continue to make a difference in the Caribbean, since opening their first resort in 1981. The Sandals Foundation is the culmination of over four decades of dedication to playing a meaningful role in the lives of communities across the Caribbean. 100% of every dollar donated goes directly to fund impactful and meaningful initiatives in three core areas: Education, Community and the Environment.
The Sandals Foundation celebrates its 15th anniversary in 2024 and has made significant strides in each of its core pillars of work
Education: Nurturing Minds, Shaping Futures – The Sandals Foundation is dedicated to providing access to quality education for all. Through projects such as sustainable water initiatives, building schools, enhancing infrastructure, equipping students with required technologies, providing scholarships, and supporting literacy programs, the foundation has empowered both children and adults alike to unlock their full potential. To date, the team has impacted over 350,000 students in their education needs, distributed over 6,000 digital learning devices, supported over 2,000 schools, awarded over 200 scholarships, and distributed some 300,000 books to schools and libraries.
Community Development: Building Stronger Communities – By investing in skills training and certification, youth engagement, artisan and other livelihoods, the Sandals Foundation has fostered vibrant and resilient communities across the Caribbean. In recent years, the organization has intensified its investment in food security programs, investing in climate-smart technologies and education within communities and learning institutions. It continues to expand its women empowerment program, Women Helping Others Achieve (WHOA) – providing mentorship, training, health, and counselling support for marginalized women. Additionally, through strategic partnerships in the health sector, the philanthropic organization has invested in medical personnel training, equipment, built infrastructure and the capacity of medical practitioners and systems to better serve thousands of people.
Environmental Conservation: Safeguarding Our Natural Heritage – Recognizing the importance of preserving the Caribbean’s rich biodiversity, the Sandals Foundation leads efforts in marine sanctuary management, coral restoration, and environmental education. Through expert partnerships that assist in the development of environmental curriculum and hands-on field trips, the foundation is raising awareness of children and empowering stewards to take action for generations to come. Throughout the Caribbean, some 19 marine and terrestrial protected areas, national gardens and parks receive support and to further bolster the region’s biodiversity, over 33,000 corals have been out-planted in our seas, and 27,000 terrestrial and marine trees have been planted to support the vital ecosystems. Additionally, the philanthropic organization works closely with local partners investing in eco-tours to sustain continued conservation.