Destinations International Launches LA Wildfire Recovery Fund to Support Los Angeles Community 

Tuesday, January 14, 2025

In the face of unprecedented wildfires ravaging the Los Angeles region, Destinations International (DI), the global association representing destination organizations and convention and visitors bureaus (CVBs), has launched the Destinations International LA Wildfire Recovery Fund. This initiative demonstrates the tourism industry’s commitment to supporting communities in crisis and aiding recovery efforts for one of the world’s most iconic travel destinations.

The wildfires have inflicted severe damage across the Los Angeles region, resulting in 24 fatalities, the destruction of over 12,000 structures, and mass evacuations affecting more than 150,000 residents. Power and water outages have further exacerbated the hardships faced by the community.

Immediate Action and Strong Industry Support

Destinations International, along with its philanthropic arm, the Destinations International Foundation, has pledged a combined $20,000 to kickstart the recovery fund. This initiative was met with immediate and overwhelming support from the global tourism community, raising over $100,000 in contributions from leading industry organizations.

Key Contributions:

• Visit Baltimore: $10,000
• Visit Greater Palm Springs: $10,000
• IMEX Group: $10,000
• Visit West Hollywood: $10,000
• Visit Anaheim: $10,000
• Visit Newport Beach: $10,000
• Hunden Partners: $10,000
• Longwoods International: $5,000
• Meet Boston: $5,000
• Visit Seattle: $5,000

The initiative underscores the strength of the global tourism community and its shared commitment to supporting destinations in need.

Leadership in Recovery Efforts

Don Welsh, President and CEO of Destinations International, highlighted the significance of this initiative:

“This recovery fund underscores the strength of our community and our shared commitment to standing with Los Angeles in its time of need.”

Chelsea Dunlop Welter, Managing Director of the Destinations International Foundation, emphasized the industry’s solidarity:

“As an industry, we understand that when one community suffers, we all feel the impact. Together, we will ensure that Los Angeles emerges stronger from this tragedy.”

Strategic Allocation of Funds

To maximize the impact of donations, the Destinations International Foundation will collaborate with key local leaders, including Adam Burke, President and CEO of the Los Angeles Tourism & Convention Board, and Kristin McGrath, Executive Director of Visit Pasadena. Together, they will determine how to allocate funds effectively in the coming weeks and months, ensuring that the recovery efforts directly benefit affected communities.

The fund will prioritize addressing immediate needs such as providing shelter, food, and essential services for displaced residents while supporting long-term recovery projects aimed at rebuilding the region’s tourism infrastructure and restoring its natural and cultural assets.

How to Contribute

Destinations International invites its members, partners, and the public to join the relief efforts by contributing to the LA Wildfire Recovery Fund. Notably, 100% of all donations will go directly toward supporting recovery efforts in the impacted areas, ensuring complete transparency and effectiveness in the use of funds.

Tourism Industry’s Role in Crisis Response

This initiative highlights the vital role the tourism industry plays in disaster recovery and community resilience. Los Angeles, a global hub for tourism, is not just a destination; it is home to countless individuals and businesses that fuel the sector. The destruction caused by the wildfires affects not only the local community but also the broader travel and tourism ecosystem.

By rallying together, the global tourism industry demonstrates its ability to provide meaningful support during crises, underscoring the importance of collective action in rebuilding affected communities.

Building a Stronger Los Angeles

As Los Angeles faces the challenges of recovery, the contributions from the Destinations International LA Wildfire Recovery Fund symbolize hope and solidarity. The support of the tourism industry reinforces the idea that recovery is not just about rebuilding structures but also about restoring a sense of community, resilience, and strength.

This unified response serves as a powerful reminder of the tourism industry’s capacity to drive positive change, even in the face of adversity. With continued support, Los Angeles can rise stronger, reaffirming its place as a world-class destination for travelers and a vibrant home for its residents.

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