About us

INTRODUCTION OF US

Empowering individuals and communities to create a more diverse and inclusive travel industry.

Travel Unity is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit focused on increasing diversity in the world of travel through individual and community empowerment. We develop DEI standards, certify individuals and organizations, and provide training and programs that help the travel industry become truly welcoming to all.

Goals:

We connect community groups and individuals with travel, cultural, and educational experiences to promote personal and professional growth.

Mission:

We work with organizations in the travel industry to broaden their diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts and align with best practices for DEI.

Who We Are and What We Believe

Founded in 2016, Travel Unity is a non-profit focused on increasing inclusion in the world of travel.

We meet people and organizations where they are. We will work with anyone who is committed to making travel welcoming to people of all backgrounds and abilities.

Why Work with Travel Unity

Inclusive practices are necessary for both business reasons and because helping people feel included is the right thing to do.

Travel Unity helps organizations implement inclusive practices by aligning with our Standards
Our Standards have three pillars
- Leadership & Workforce
- Communities
- Travelers

Our Approach to Implementing Inclusive Practices

Inclusive practices make sure that individuals understand the value of this work and that it is done in a step-by-step and consistent manner.

Forming an Inclusive Mindset

Coming from a place of empathy
Knowing yourself/your brand
Learning about others
Gaining a natural filter to look through the prism of identity

Establishing & Following Inclusive Processes

Avoiding bias in hiring
Acknowledging and addressing mistakes in marketing/communications
Maintaining partnerships

How to Work With Us

Workshops & Training

Invite Travel Unity facilitators to lead workshops and training sessions, or ongoing consulting.

Youth & Workforce

Collaborate with TU on initiatives designed to introduce youth to the travel industry.

Join the Alliance

Join a network of individuals and organizations committed to inclusion in the world of travel.

Travel Unity Alliance members include:

Get Certified

We offer individual certifications based on our Standards to ensure that all travel industry members are equipped with the knowledge and proficiency to make people of all backgrounds feel welcome.

TUIC

The Travel Unity Individual Certificate (TUIC) is our baseline certificate, introducing the travel industry and inclusion in travel.

TDP

In the Travel DEI Practitioner (TDP) program, manager-level participants explore how to implement inclusion within their roles, including a capstone project and a 3-month check-in.

CDTP

Certified DEI Travel Professionals have completed vetted DEI plans, based off of Travel Unity’s Standards, to implement within their organizations. Participants can also audit the two CDTP workshops: Inclusive & Equitable Leadership and Creating a Strategic DEI Action Plan.

Certificate Testimonials

TUIC Testimonials

“It was an absolute honor to be a part of [TUIC]! It was an excellent start for us to be more aware, considerate, and welcoming to all. I particularly enjoyed the live session and discussing the questions presented to us in the chat rooms. It’s always fascinating to hear others’ perspectives on the material or questions, as it helps us to open our minds to other aspects as it relates to someone else. It can only broaden our horizons and help us to be welcoming to all.”

Margo DeRouchie

National Sales & Business Development Director Pennsylvania’s Americana Region Vistors Bureau Reading & Berks County, PA

TDP Testimonials

“I couldn’t recommend Travel Unity more highly. The [TDP] coaches provide an incredible learning platform and a safe space that expanded my personal knowledge, as well as enabled greater commitment to personal and business action to create a safer workplace where every team member and every stakeholder feels welcome.“ “Thank you for facilitation and pushing us out of our comfort zones. DEI topics can be very tricky, sensitive and difficult and your approach is very manageable and welcoming.” “I would definitely recommend this program, not only to learn about various DEI concepts, but also to listen to what other DMOs are doing as it relates to DEI policies and procedures.“

CDTP Testimonials

“CDTP was an awesome experience and I’m so happy I was able to participate. I haven’t learned all the answers but I now understand the questions. Wish my whole team could participate.”

Karen Trevino, CDTP

President & CEO North Little Rock Tourism North Little Rock, AR

Sign The Pledge

We believe travel should be a source of connection and understanding for everyone. But this vision requires action. Sign this pledge and commit to making travel more inclusive and accessible for people of all backgrounds and abilities. Your signature is a step towards a more welcoming world.

Annual Reports

2019

2020

2021

2022

Tax Forms

Travel Unity provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

This policy applies to all employment terms and conditions, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.