Ten Steps to Social Responsibility
Grand Circle Foundation
Established in 1992 to give something of lasting value back to the communities that welcome our travelers, the non-profit Grand Circle Foundation has donated $32 million to worldwide educational and cultural projects. It also serves as the umbrella organization for all our philanthropic, community service, and workplace culture initiatives; and manages the processes by which we monitor and measure results. Read more ...
World Classroom Initiative
To OAT, the world truly is a classroom. We believe that the best travel discoveries happen through hands-on learning and personal exchange with the people call a destination home. And we're committed to giving back to the communities we visit. Read more ...
Calling Upon International Leaders
For inspiration and advice, we often turn to our Honorary Board of Directors:
- Dr. Rodrigo Carazo, President of Costa Rica (1978-82); Founder, International University for Peace, Costa Rica
- Selahattin Erdemgil, Archaeologist and Expedition Leader; Former Director, Ephesus Museum, Turkey
- Dr. Robert Muller, Former Assistant Secretary-General, United Nations; Recipient, International Albert Schweitzer Prize for the Humanities
- Lech Walesa, Former President of Poland; Recipient, Nobel Peace Prize
- Kazimierz Smolen, Polish Resistance fighter and Holocaust survivor; Former Director, State Museum at Auschwitz-Birkenau
- Barbara Washburn, Mountaineer and Explorer; First woman to summit Mt. McKinley
Read more about International Leaders.
Inspiring Others to Lead
Alan and Harriet Lewis have been widely recognized for their entrepreneurial approach to teaching other business leaders how to integrate philanthropy into the core business model.
Click below to read:
Involving Travelers
Simply by traveling with us, you support Foundation projects, which are partly funded by a portion of our trips’ profits. We also connect you with these projects through on-site visits that are included in your trip. Then, there’s the natural generosity of our travelers, who frequently make independent donations of time and money. Read more ...
Worldwide Community Service
The spirit of giving extends to all our 30 offices around the world, where Grand Circle associates have volunteered to do everything from building houses to working at soup kitchens. International grants are determined by those living closest to the nearly 100 sites we support—our regional associates. In 2008, 99% of our Boston-based associates participated in company-sponsored community service events. Read more ...
Investing in Community Leaders and Charitable Associates
The Foundation brings together local nonprofit leaders to share best practices and long-term strategies for improving communities. We also recognize leaders in our own community for their commitment to giving back. Read more ...
Creating one of the Best Places to Work
We attract and retain the best 3,000 people by providing them opportunities to be a part of something larger than themselves. Personal and professional growth is encouraged by a generous benefits program; and a company culture that emphasizes open and courageous communication, risk-taking, teamwork, speed, thriving in change, and quality.
