by Sabrina Kathleen, Midlife Road Trip Correspondent

Comprised of over 700 lush green islands lined by gorgeous beaches and radiant waters, the Caribbean is a prime destination for many vacationers from all across the globe. However, what most of us don’t often see beyond these natural beauties of the Caribbean is the reality that many of its communities are facing countless economic and environmental challenges, making it difficult for the region to thrive and advance.

“Education, Community, Environment”

In March of 2009, The Sandals Foundation was launched with a promise to give back to the Caribbean region. A goal was set to make a strong, positive impact in the lives of those who reside here, as well as the environment itself. Five years later –and counting– the Sandals Foundation continues to carry out this promise by placing focus in the three key areas:

“ Education – to reach our full potential

 Community – to uplift, engage and empower

  Environment – to preserve and nurture our unique surroundings”

This is done so through various projects, group organizations, partnerships, and donations. The Sandals Foundation is a non-profit organization, so 100% of the proceeds go directly to the cause making these improvements possible.

Boscobel Primary – One Of Many

During our recent stay at Sandals Ochi Beach Resort, we were given the opportunity to visit one of the local schools and get a firsthand view of the foundation at work.

Coming from a country where it has become all too common to see the average 9-year-old receive a brand new iPad as a random gift and often express little to no gratitude, it was a very powerful and meaningful experience for us to witness the genuine excitement and appreciation on the faces of these students as they celebrated the grand opening of their new computer lab. We love that Sandals Resorts leave footprints on the lives of so many. Thank you for your good work!

For more information on The Sandals Foundation and how you can get involved visit: SandalsFoundation.org