Welcome to Community Footprints 

                                   
At The Ritz-Carlton, we have built a legacy of extraordinary service. This tradition extends into our social and environmental responsibility program, Community Footprints, and inspires us to positively impact the lives of others. Our first mission statement, created in 1983, committed that “The Ritz-Carlton Hotels will be known as positive, supportive members of their community and will be sensitive to the environment.” These principles have guided us well over the past 26 years, enabling us to make a meaningful difference in the communities around the world in which our Ritz-Carlton properties are located.

In keeping with this commitment, our properties collaborate with local organizations to direct our resources where the most impact will be made.  In 2008, The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company donated over $8.55 million in products and services to charitable organizations, and our Ladies and Gentlemen contributed over 57,000 hours in volunteer service.  Woven into the fabric of our history, The Ritz-Carlton underscores this passion to serve with a Community Footprints focus on three pillars:

• Hunger and Poverty Relief: The ladies and gentleman of the Ritz-Carlton are deeply committed to serving the disadvantaged in our communities. We partner with community organizations and social enterprises to aid those in need in our communities. Our initiatives impact an array of community needs, from cooking and serving meals at homeless shelters, renovating critical community facilities, building homes, and partnering on programs designed to help break the cycle of poverty.
  

• Well-being of Disadvantaged Children: Our Ritz-Carlton properties are proud to work with local organizations that provide a safe haven and nurturing environment to underprivileged children. These efforts include job readiness and workplace training for disadvantaged youth, sponsoring mentoring programs, participating in after-school programs and building libraries and playgrounds. Our properties also partner with charitable organizations to raise funds to benefit children in need, including those who are disabled or face health issues.
  

• Environmental Conservation: The Ritz-Carlton is committed to working towards a more sustainable future by protecting and preserving natural resources. Our Ritz-Carlton Environmental Action Conservation Teams (REACT) at each property implement environmental best practices designed to minimize our environmental imprint. Additionally, our ladies and gentlemen work to better their community's environment through participation in native plant restoration projects, protection of endangered species, creation of community gardens, and beach and roadside clean-ups. 
  

The Community Footprints Fund was established to supplement the Community Footprints efforts of our properties around the world and support broader-based charitable causes. The Fund is formed as an Internal Revenue code 501(c)(3) organization, as part of the Community Foundation for the National Capital Region public charity.


For more information about Community Footprints please e-mail communityfootprints@ritzcarlton.com