#USA #New York #travel advisors #Internova Travel #Family Bonds

Celebrating Significant Milestones in Travel

As the global community comes together to observe Global Travel Advisor Day, Internova Travel Group proudly commemorates not just the outstanding contributions of travel advisors worldwide, but also the 10th anniversary of its Family Bonds Foundation. This nonprofit initiative has played a crucial role in providing support to travel professionals and their families during challenging times.

Established in 2015, the Family Bonds Foundation was instigated to be a beacon of hope for those encountering health issues, job loss, natural disasters, and unexpected hardships. Over the past decade, it has facilitated the distribution of over 250 emergency grants aimed at aiding individuals within the travel industry, helping them rebuild their lives following personal calamities. The significance of these grants cannot be overstated, as they have walked alongside many families during their darkest hours.

J.D. O'Hara, CEO of Internova Travel Group, shared the organization’s view on this dual celebration: "This day is about honoring the dedication of travel advisors around the world. But it’s also a powerful reminder of our responsibility to stand by the people who make travel possible when they need us most."

Record-Breaking Fundraising Initiatives
In 2024 alone, the Family Bonds Foundation achieved a remarkable fundraising feat by securing $650,000, largely attributed to the supportive efforts of Internova's advisor network and generous contributions from several supplier partners. Leading the charge as Diamond sponsors were Globus Family of Brands, Outside Agents, Pavlus Travel, and Signature Travel Network. Notably, Allianz Partners and AmaWaterways are gearing up as Diamond Plus donors for 2025, each pledging a minimum of $100,000 to further strengthen the cause.

For the upcoming anniversary year, Internova has set ambitious aspirations to raise $800,000 in 2025. Plans include major fundraising events to take place during key industry conferences such as the Travel Leaders Network's EDGE Conference scheduled for June 9-12 in Las Vegas, and Nexion's CoNexion Conference from September 8-10 at the Universal Orlando Resort. These events will feature silent auctions and raffles highlighted by travel prizes, including luxurious cruises, premium flight options, and stays at elite resorts, with online bidding opening a week prior to each event.

An Invitation to Community Support
Jackie Friedman, President of both the Family Bonds Foundation and Nexion Travel Group, emphasized the foundation's goal of community collaboration: "This foundation is not just for our company, it's for the entire travel advisor community. We encourage all travel agencies and networks to join us in supporting the people who make this industry so special. Together, we can make an even bigger impact."

Annually, the foundation welcomes nominations for grants from anyone within the travel industry. The upcoming nomination deadline is set for July 15, with recipients being informed by August 1. This year, the foundation has pledged to grant over 100 awards, showcasing its commitment to nurturing a compassionate network.

For those interested in participating as corporate donors, making nominations, or contributing to the fundraising initiatives, more information is available on the Family Bonds Foundation website.

About Internova Travel Group
Internova Travel Group stands as one of the world's most substantial travel services companies, leading the way with a remarkable portfolio of brands that provide high-touch, personalized travel experiences to both leisure and corporate clients. With a network of over 100,000 travel advisors across approximately 6,000 locations primarily in the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom, Internova makes its presence felt in more than 80 countries.