The LATA Foundation is strengthening its team and developing its approach to funding as it looks to support more grassroots projects across Latin America.

On 9 November, Rachel returns from maternity leave as Head of Foundation, leading the organisation’s day-to-day development. She will work alongside Abbi Gutierrez, Fundraising and Volunteer Manager, who focuses on fundraising, donor relationships and volunteer engagement.

Having two permanent staff members gives the Foundation greater capacity and stability. It means more time to build relationships with project partners, develop funding opportunities and report back to donors and LATA members on the difference their support makes.

The Foundation is also reviewing how it identifies and supports projects, with a focus on creating a clearer route for new organisations to come forward. Its funding priorities increasingly emphasise the role tourism can play in creating sustainable livelihoods, supporting entrepreneurship and connecting local communities with tourism businesses.

The Foundation’s partnership with LATA includes a commitment to grow the funding it provides to projects year on year. Building stronger relationships with members and encouraging more regular contributions will be important to achieving this ambition.

There is another milestone on the horizon: in 2027, the LATA Foundation will celebrate its 20th anniversary.

Since 2007, the Foundation has supported grassroots initiatives across Latin America. The anniversary will be an opportunity to celebrate the volunteers, donors, project partners and LATA members who have made this work possible, while looking ahead to the next stage of the Foundation’s development.