Signature Travel Network acquires Pack for a Purpose nonprofit

Signature Travel Network has acquired the nonprofit Pack for a Purpose, which will be part of Signature’s nonprofit Travel Elevates.

Pack for a Purpose provides travelers with information on supplies needed in their destination that they can deliver via their luggage. Then Pack for a Purpose coordinates the transport of the supplies. 

Last year, Pack for a Purpose helped more than 43,000 pounds of supplies make their way to communities around the world.

The nonprofit was founded in 2009 by Rebecca Rothney, who delivered supplies on a trip to Africa. Upon her return, she asked her travel advisor why the practice wasn’t more common. The answer was most didn’t think about it, sparking her idea for Pack for a Purpose.

Rothney approached Signature CEO Alex Sharpe about folding her nonprofit into Travel Elevates last year.

“My 75th birthday wish was to have a secure future where Pack for a Purpose would continue to thrive,” she said in a release. “I am thrilled that Travel Elevates has made that wish come true. Travel Elevates will enable the Pack for a Purpose mission to grow exponentially.”

Pack for a Purpose officially became part of Travel Elevates on June 1.

“This organization provides a perfect starting point for any traveler to make an impact, simply carrying needed supplies in their suitcase and dropping them off at their designated accommodation or tour company for handling,” Sharpe said. “This aligns with our belief that giving back while traveling heightens the experience for travelers and leads to greater repeat travel and advisor loyalty. And it also leaves a destination in a better place after a visit.”