Contact: Jennifer Michels
Pr@asta.org

ASTA Supports Nepal Recovery Fund

Alexandria, VA, April 28, 2015 – American Society of Travel Agents (ASTA), which has nine members in Nepal, joins earthquake recovery effort through partner Tourism Cares. Companies and individuals from all over the world may make a donation to the fund.

ASTA is reaching out to help the people of Nepal, who are heavily dependent on the travel and tourism industry, recover from this week’s devastating earthquake. According the World Travel and Tourism Council, tourism accounts for at least 500,000 jobs in Nepal. The Tourism Cares Nepal Recovery Fund aims to rally the global travel and tourism community, leveraging contributions that focus on recovery.

More specifically, the fund will garner financial investments and work directly with Nepal’s tourism leaders to assist in prioritizing resources for recovery. Working with media and association partners, the Tourism Cares Nepal Recovery Fund will engage in dialogue with travel agents and tour operators, telling the story of sustained tourism recovery.

In a message to Nepalese ASTA members on April 27, Zane Kerby, President & CEO of ASTA, extended his sympathy and support on behalf of all ASTA members in response to the tragic earthquake.

“Your ASTA family is here by your side, and we want to help you get through this very difficult time,” said Kerby. “We realize your first priority is assisting friends and family. But we want to help.” ASTA is contributing to the fund, and urges others in the industry to consider a donation to this worthy cause.

To learn more about the Tourism Cares Nepal Recovery Fund, or to make a donation, please visit TourismCares.org/nepalrecovery.

ABOUT ASTA
ASTA (American Society of Travel Agents) members represent 80 percent of all travel sold in the United States through the travel agency distribution channel. Together with hundreds of internationally based members, it is the leading global advocate for travel agents, the travel industry and the traveling public. ASTA’s history of travel industry advocacy traces back to its founding in 1931 when it launched with the mission to facilitate the business of selling travel through effective representation, shared knowledge and the enhancement of professionalism. For more information, visit ASTA.org.

ASTA’s sister association, The National Association of Career Travel Agents, represents a professional community of independent travel agents ready to assist the traveling public.