Preferred Hotels & Resorts recognizes member hotels that take the meaning of genuine hospitality beyond the lobby and into their communities and the larger world by showcasing an outstanding commitment to philanthropy, sustainability, and social responsibility as part of its GIFTTS program [Great Initiatives for Today's (Tomorrow's) Society].
More than 80 properties submitted examples of their exemplary efforts in 2019 for consideration, and after much deliberation, we are delighted to announce the 11th Annual GIFTTS Pineapple Award Winners:
Each hotel has gone above and beyond in their commitment, and we are pleased to share details of their exceptional, inspiring work.
Gondwana Game Reserve
Winner – Overall Corporate Social Responsibility
Gondwana Game Reserve created The Gondwana Conservation Foundation (GCF) as a non-profit organization dedicated to the conservation of South Africa’s threatened and endangered wildlife and vegetation. The foundation’s three pillars of focus are Conservation Education, the Rainbow Rhino Initiative, and Conservation of Critically Endangered Fynbos. The resort’s ongoing efforts are essential to the health of its local community and environment.
NJV Athens Plaza
Winner – Sustainability
NJV Athens Plaza is the first hotel in Greece to be certified as sustainable according to the EarthCheck accreditation. Recognizing the importance of contributing to environmental protection,& the hotel promotes the principles of sustainability by implementing recycling and energy-saving programs, along with new technologies and processes as they are developed to reduce their environmental footprint now and for the future.
Sopwell House
Winner – Philanthropy
Sopwell House is committed to working on initiatives to ensure continual progress and success with sustainable and charitable projects. The hotel’s dedicated ‘Spreading Kindness Squad,’ an interdepartmental team, meets regularly to work on the multiple charities they support – including Room to Reward, Wine to Water, Sleep Smart, and The Springboard Charity – to help those less fortunate and empower people in crisis situations.
Wynn Resorts
Winner – Most Consistent Commitment&
Wynn Resorts bases its community engagement on three pillars: Vibrant Communities, Education, and Cultural Enrichment, and address each through environmental preservation, supporting positive social programs, increasing economic opportunity, and supporting the arts. The Community Relations team shares information about company initiatives, volunteer opportunities, and giving through the Wynn Employee Foundation which sees more than 6,000 volunteers per year.
Villa Copenhagen
Winner– Inspirational Newcomer
Recognized as a leader in sustainable tourism by Travel + Leisure’s 2020 Global Vision Awards, Villa Copenhagen has pledged to promote and embrace the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) while also implementing a variety of initiatives on property and throughout the city to support the environment and local community. From what dishes are served at each restaurant to the amenities available in the guestrooms, Villa Copenhagen takes great pride in providing guests and local visitors alike with sustainable solutions and experiences.