Vacation in the Islands & Help Charity
Hope Floats: Cruising Meets Charity
“What a dichotomy of wealth and incredible poverty. What if those two worlds could somehow meet?” Such was the thought that struck Cathy Huckaby, founder of Hope Floats, as she wandered from one of the wealthiest neighborhoods of St. Thomas to one of the most impoverished. As veteran cruises, Cathy and her husband Bill, began using their cruise vacations as a time to discover what charities existed in port cities and what they could do the bring together fellow cruisers and reputable, charitable organizations in need of volunteers.
Hope Floats was officially founded in 2008, and granted 501(C)3 Non-Profit Status. The first trial run, utilizing family and friends, was launched, in collaboration with 15 charities and volunteer opportunities in Antigua, Barbados, St. Lucia, St. Thomas and Tortola. Since then, opportunities can also be found in Belize, Aruba and Cozumel, with plans to expand to Nassau, St. Kitts, San Juan (Puerto Rico) and Jamaica.
Charities for passengers to choose from include: Red Cross, Humane Society International, Rotary International, Ranfurly Homes and The Salvation Army. Volunteers have the opportunity to donate time at local thrift stores, recycling centers, food preparation facilities, preschools, senior care centers and humane societies. Not only will volunteers be doing meaningful and valuable work, but they will also get to see a side of their destinations that is usually reserved for locals. In addition to volunteering time, passengers are encouraged to bring supplies such as diapers, school supplies, canned food and first aid supplies for applicable excursions.
So how does it work? Simply visit hopefloats.org and chose your destination and excursion. Add the excursion of your choice for your destination, and you will be contacted and sent the details of your selection. Make sure to double check any requirements needed, such as bringing your vaccination records, and prepare to venture off the beaten path of the typical cruise line shore