Explore Whitefish Affordable Housing Initiative recognized

World Tourism Day marks the launch of “100 Travel Innovations,” a collection of stories from 100 destinations around the world about the programs and activities happening right now to improve our lives – environmentally, economically, and socially. As a partner of “100 Travel Innovations,” Explore Whitefish supports the drive to ensure travel improves the world. 

Since October 2023, Explore Whitefish has allocated 50% of Community Support Fund contributions collected from restaurant business members to Housing Whitefish, the local non-profit organization that advocates, creates, and plans for the sustainable supply of affordable housing. As of August 2024, $301,990 has been raised through this initiative from member businesses to help in the creation of affordable housing for the Whitefish community. 

“Explore Whitefish recognizes that our organization is uniquely positioned to connect people and new perspectives, and it bears a profound responsibility to innovate and lead by example to make our community a better place,” said Julie Mullins, executive director of Explore Whitefish. 

Today’s launch includes the first 100 innovations addressing biodiversity, climate resilience, cultural preservation, community prosperity, equality, modernization, responsible tourism, and job creation. The collection will grow with more ideas to inform and inspire everyone who travels or wants to make meaningful changes at home and represents more than 35 countries on six continents. 

The “100 Travel Innovations” was carefully evaluated and selected by Destination Think's editorial team in collaboration with Todd Montgomery, professor at Oregon State University and director of the Sustainable Tourism Lab. 

All innovations can be accessed at https://innovate.destinationthink.com/  

Whitefish’s specific innovation can be accessed at: https://innovate.destinationthink.com/explore/responsible-tourism/where-visitors-increase-affordable-housing 

For more information visit www.explorewhitefish.com.