RIO GRANDE, PUERTO RICO—Wyndham Grand Rio Mar, Wyndham Palmas, the Friends of El Yunque Foundation, and the United States Forest Service announced the signing of an industry-leading donation agreement that will provide a simple way for tourists to directly support El Yunque National Rainforest in the promotion of its educational programs, conservation, and recreation. Under this agreement, guests of Wyndham Grand Rio Mar Rainforest, Beach and Golf Resort and Wyndham Palmas Beach and Golf Resort will have the opportunity to voluntarily donate $1 to the Friends of El Yunque Foundation when they book their stay.
Friends of El Yunque is a nonprofit organization in Puerto Rico that works directly with the United States Forest Service to promote learning and tourism for El Yunque National Rainforest, the only rainforest in the U.S. National Parks Service. Through guest participation, the partnership projects to donate $350,000 annually to fund the foundation’s reach for environmental education, sustainable tourism development, and youth community programming.
“At LionGrove, the conservation of El Yunque and contributions to the communities are fundamental pillars of our mission,” said Amadeo Zarzosa, Senior Vice President of LionGrove and General Manager of Wyndham Grand Rio Mar and Wyndham Palmas. “We believe in the importance of preserving this natural treasure for future generations, while simultaneously strengthening and enriching the communities around us. This donation agreement is a testament to our commitment, and we are proud to be pioneers in this initiative in the hospitality industry.”
Wyndham Grand Rio Mar and Wyndham Palmas are two of the closest resorts near the rainforest. Guests of each resort are encouraged to explore the rainforest, and both properties offer excursions and activities that help guests explore one of TIME Magazine’s “World’s Greatest Places in 2023.” This partnership further aligns both properties with their mission to support the local community and culture.
