Historic hotels across the United States are increasingly supporting local charities through the donation of room nights, a practice that has quietly evolved into an important way to give back to their communities. These donations allow donors to support various causes while enjoying travel experiences.
The Crescent Hotel in Eureka Springs, a notable participant, has issued 267 gift certificates as part of its charitable efforts in 2023-2024.
Historic Hotels of America, an organization that represents historic properties nationwide, has been instrumental in fostering partnerships between these hotels and charities. One of the major beneficiaries is the Eureka Springs Community Center, which is chaired by Amanda Haley, the Crescent Hotel’s digital marketing manager. The center has long received support from Jack Moyer and Elise Roenigk, both major donors and, in Moyer’s case, a founding board member.
The donation process is straightforward and effective. The Crescent Hotel donates stay vouchers to other resorts, who then reciprocate with vouchers. The Crescent then donates the partner vouchers to support important Crescent causes. This system ensures that a wide range of charities benefit from these contributions.
In 2024, the Crescent Hotel donation program was expanded to include packages from several historic hotels:
• A two-night stay at the West Baden Springs Hotel at French Lick Resort, including breakfast at Cafe Sinclair, golf for two at Pete Dye Golf Course and concert tickets for select weekends, and a historical tour of West Baden.
• A two-night stay at various Settlers Hospitality Hotel Group properties including The Settlers Inn, Ledges Hotel, Silver Birches Resort, Hotel Anthracite, Sayre Mansion and The Chestnut Inn.
• A two-night stay at the Grand Hotel Golf Resort & Spa in Point Clear, Alabama, including breakfast for two each day and a round of golf for two.
• A San Francisco/Napa package from the Presidio and Napa River Inn.
• A two-night stay at The Peabody Memphis, including suite accommodations, the opportunity to serve as Honorary Duckmaster, and dinner for two at Chez Philippe.
• A bed and breakfast package at the Hotel Hershey in Hershey, Pennsylvania, including two nights’ accommodations, four tickets to Hershey Park and a VIP chocolate gift upon arrival.
• A two-night stay at the Raphael Hotel in Kansas City, Missouri, including a gourmet package with a three-course meal for two at Chaz Restaurant.
• The King’s Courtyard Inn Discover Charleston package includes two nights’ accommodations, daily breakfast, a horse-drawn carriage ride through historic Charleston, a tour of Fort Sumter or Patriots Point Naval Museum, a tour of the historic home, and a bottle of champagne in room upon arrival.
Lawrence Horwitz, executive vice president of Historic Hotels of America and Historic Hotels Worldwide, praised these initiatives, emphasizing that these historic properties continue to enrich their communities while providing travelers with unforgettable experiences.
“The collective efforts of these many historic hotels continue to enrich the communities in which they are located,” said Horwitz. “Their donations bring wonderful benefits to their local communities and provide unforgettable experiences for travelers. These iconic and legendary historic hotels have supported their communities for over a century, demonstrating that combining philanthropy and hospitality is a win-win for charities and donors alike.”
Donations from 2024 were donated to the Eureka Springs Community Center’s “Siptember” fundraiser, which will take place on Wednesday, September 11th, starting at 4 p.m. at the Eureka Springs Brewery to support regional youth activities and the sustainability of the community center.
Bidding for the travel auction begins online on Monday, September 2nd at 9am and ends on Wednesday, September 11th at 4pm. Bidding continues at the September event and ends with the silent auction.
To place bids, visit https://www.traveleurekasprings.com/community-center-travel-auction/. To ensure your bid wins, plan to attend the Siptember event. Tickets are available at https://www.reserveeureka.com/attractions/siptember.
