As Expedia CruiseShipCenters celebrated its 2014 National Conference aboard Norwegian Breakaway, the company once again leveraged the opportunity to raise money for breast cancer research and awareness. Through fundraising initiatives at both corporate and franchisee levels, more than $20,000 was raised for the cause in 2014.
Conference attendees dressed in pink from head to toe and participated in a spirited walk and workout onboard Breakaway. With personal donations and pledges from family, friends, peers as well as corporate contributions from Norwegian Cruise Line, Azamara Club Cruises and Expedia CruiseShipCenters, the onboard initiative raised $10,000.
“Our National Conference is the perfect platform to host our annual walk in support of finding a cure,” said President Matthew Eichhorst. “So many of our Franchise Partners, Vacation Consultants, corporate staff and supplier partners have been affected by this disease, so this event brings us all together each year to support this worthy cause in a fun, meaningful way.”
Expedia CruiseShipCenters supports its charity of choice year-round through various initiatives:
• Cruise for the Cure: Organized by Expedia CruiseShipCenters Franchise Partner Barry Foot, this annual initiative donates a portion of each stateroom booked directly to breast cancer research and awareness. Next year’s cruise will be held aboard Royal Caribbean International’s Adventure of the Seas in March 2015.
• Dress for the Cause: Expedia CruiseShipCenters across North America dress in pink and hold local fundraisers in this annual event.
• Local Initiatives: Expedia CruiseShipCenters’ network of more than 180 franchise locations has embraced the breast cancer cause across North America. Locally, fundraising efforts include silent auctions, direct donations and restaurant fundraisers in their communities.
The company’s 2014 National Conference theme, “Bigger, Better, Stronger, Together” reflects the continued growth plans for the company, which expects to add an additional 150 retail locations across North America over the next 3 years.
