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Empowering Community Support in 2025

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Nicole Twigg

December 13, 2024

Nicole Twigg, Kiwanda Coastal Properties

As we reflect on the past year, it's clear that vacation rental managers have a unique opportunity to make a significant impact in their local communities. At Kiwanda Coastal Properties, we've seen firsthand how a simple initiative can grow into a powerful force for good. Our Kiwanda Community Fund, established in 2020, has not only strengthened our bonds with homeowners and guests but has also become a vital resource for local charities.

In 2023, we raised over $5,000 through the Kiwanda Community Fund. This year, we're excited to report that we've continued those efforts, raising over $7,000 for our local charities in 2024. This success story isn't just about numbers—it's about creating a model that other vacation rental managers can adapt and implement in their own communities. In a world where vacation rentals are often unfairly blamed for community issues, making a meaningful, positive local impact can help shift negative perceptions and strengthen STR advocacy efforts.

Kiwanda Community Funds

How to Start Your Own Community Fund

Benefits of a Community Fund

Identify Local Needs:

Research and connect with local charities that address important issues in your area. For us, this includes the Tillamook Animal Shelter, South County Food Pantry, and the Surfrider Foundation's Three Capes Chapter.

Engage Homeowners:

Many vacation homeowners are eager to give back to the communities they love. Offer them the opportunity to contribute a percentage of their rental proceeds or make one-time donations.

Involve Guests:

Implement a system that allows guests to add a donation to their booking. We've found that many families appreciate the chance to support the communities they're visiting.

Match Donations:

Consider matching donations to encourage participation and increase impact. This demonstrates your company's commitment to the community.

Offer Alternative Gifting:

Instead of traditional holiday gifts, give homeowners the option to make a charitable donation in their name.

Leverage Technology:

Utilize booking software that makes it easy for guests to contribute during the reservation process.

  • Strengthens Community Ties: By supporting local charities, you become an integral part of the community fabric.
  • Enhances Homeowner Relations: Owners appreciate the opportunity to give back through their vacation property.
  • Improves Guest Experience: Visitors feel good about contributing to the places they're enjoying.
  • Positive Brand Image: Demonstrating social responsibility can set you apart in the market.

Looking Ahead

As we move into 2025, we're exploring new ways to grow our fund and increase its impact. We're considering partnerships with local businesses, organizing volunteer days for our team and interested homeowners, and creating more awareness about our supported charities.

Vacation rental managers have a unique position at the intersection of tourism and local communities. By creating and nurturing a community fund, we can harness this position to make a real difference. Whether you manage properties in a bustling city or a quiet coastal town, there's always an opportunity to give back.

We encourage all vacation rental managers to consider starting their own community funds. Not only does it benefit your local area, but it also enriches the experience for everyone involved in the vacation rental ecosystem.

Let's make 2025 a year of unprecedented community support across the vacation rental industry!

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