ResortCom International’s Eagle’s Wings Foundation (EWF) has been a beacon of hope and support for nearly 30 years, working tirelessly to uplift communities and help the underprivileged in the destinations of the Villa Group and Tafer resorts serviced by ResortCom. Originally created by vacation club members and resort developer partners, Eagle’s Wings is a “sister foundation” supported by the personal donations of our timeshare owners as well as matching contributions by our developers. Over the years, Eagles Wings Foundation has delivered $3,000,000 in cash and in-kind donations. What started as a grassroots efforts of vacation owners that loved Mexico, has now evolved into a well-respected organization that continues to expand its scope and impact for the needy of Mexico. Their efforts extend far beyond the boundaries of the resort’s operational areas, and highlights a genuine, heartfelt dedication to the welfare of all.
One of the most commendable aspects of their work is the creation of various programs that partner with our vacation owners, allowing them the opportunity to become personally involved in giving, and witness firsthand how impactful their support is. The Foundation’s regional Grant programs provides financial support to over 50+ local charities in Puerto Vallarta, Los Cabos, Cancun and most recently, Loreto. Last year, vacation owners raised more than $312,000 that benefitted a wide variety of social and community causes including schools, libraries, educational scholarship programs, orphanages, homes and programs for the elderly, physical and occupational therapy, rehabilitation services, programs and facilities for special needs children and adults, food banks, medical and dental facilities, and others, with average grants ranging from $2,000-$15,000 depending on need. Ovens, uniforms, air conditioning, safety equipment, physical therapy tools, medical supplies, and so much more are purchased with the grants, and local EWF Board members follow up with each organization to make sure funds are being utilized correctly and to provide additional support and resources. This year EWF elevated its annual Grant Ceremony in Puerto Vallarta from a simple check ceremony to a beautiful luncheon presentation. Two representatives from all 40 organizations were invited to attend a sit down lunch sponsored by Eagle’s Wings, and vacation members could opt to purchase tickets to attend the grant presentation to support them. A full video presentation included a summary of each organization, their mission, and photos of how they used their previous year’s grants funds. Then each organization was invited to the stage for their new check and a photo opp with the local press. Appreciation, kindness, and love was palpable in the room.
Another unique fundraising effort that gives directly back to the community is the Eagle’s Wings Thrift Shop. The Villa Group and Tafer Resorts periodically replace linens, kitchen goods, and furniture that are in good condition but no longer suitable for hotel operation. These are donated directly to needy families, or are donated and sold in the thrift store near Puerto Vallarta, and in Cabo, to staff and locals in the area at deep discounts. The net proceeds from these efforts are included in the annual grant distributions.
In addition to the regional grant programs, each year the EWF Board identifies a special campaign that ResortCom members can contribute to. This past November, funds were raised for the children of the resort employees to help defray school costs. In Mexico, independently operated high schools are often the only option for continuing an education beyond junior high school. Tuition, uniforms, supplies, transportation, and other fees may be prohibitive, especially for families with multiple children. EWF raised $5,500 through GoFundMe online supporters, and over $55,000 in person at our Eagle’s Wings Gala Fundraiser auction. The Developer matched this amount, for a total of $120,000 – enough to support education costs for 150 children!
During the Gala, testimonials were prepared by individuals who have been helped by EWF grants in the past. One student who had received an education scholarship shared his triumphant story of winning a school academic contest, and his goals for the future. Another young man shared the tragic and poignant story of he and his mother being shot, her death, his life changing and permanent wounds, and his subsequent efforts at healing and recovery, made possible through medical treatments sponsored by EWF. It was an incredibly moving story, made more touching by the young man’s broken English, tears, and heartfelt gratitude. Both of these true stories received standing ovations, and they are just two in the hundreds – thousands – of lives that have been touched by Eagle’s Wings.
There is a saying that “seeing is believing” and we believe that so much. The day of the Foundation’s annual Gala, ResortCom arranges charter buses for our vacation club members for “site visits” to some of the organizations that receive grants. This allows members to see firsthand the tremendous efforts and support they bring to the communities, and solidifies the true feeling of extended family Eagle’s Wings has engendered over the years. This year’s tour took members to a Down Syndrome care center and a local food bank. Past trips have included senior homes, orphanages, the local library, and schools for special needs children.
Additionally, Eagle’s Wings Foundation and the vacation club Developers respond in times of natural disasters, working with local Cruz Roja (Red Cross) and other DIF (Mexico social services) agencies to provide aid. Even when disaster strikes in an area where EWF does not have a direct presence, there are there for support. For example, following the recent disaster in Acapulco, EWF worked with the Developers to create a special GoFundMe campaign to benefit families of resort employees living in Acapulco. More than $40,000 in donations and matching funds was raised, a testament to the altruism and humanitarian spirit of Foundation and its supporters, and one that speaks volumes about their character and ethos.
All funds collected by Eagle’s Wings Foundation are distributed. There are minimal overhead costs of approximately 3% for administrative expenses only. Our Directors, staff, accountant, graphic designer, and attorney volunteer their efforts. Our local Board Representatives in Mexico work tirelessly towards all EWF projects, meeting with the organizations, verifying donations, participating in community service programs, and leading outreach and partnership efforts with other resorts and hospitality groups in each region. US and Canada based EWF Board members work on administrative and fundraising projects. Eagle’s Wings is not just an organization working within a community; they have become a part of the community, sharing their joys, and also stepping up in times of need. It is an organization that inspires loyalty, and passion to give back to the less fortunate.
The Foundation’s extensive and impactful work is a prime example of what true community service looks like. Their actions are driven not just by responsibility, but by a deep-seated desire to make a difference in the lives of those they serve. This dedication to service, education, and disaster relief mirrors the values and spirit that the ACE Philanthropy and Community Service Award seeks to recognize and celebrate.
Selflessness is the quiet, yet powerful force that drives humanity towards a future of hope and compassion. It’s the act of extending a hand to others, not for recognition or reward, but simply because it’s the right thing to do. When we help others, we not only lift their burdens but also ignite a chain reaction of kindness that echoes through our communities. The reasons for leaving the world better than we found it are deeply rooted in the understanding that our time here is transient, but our impact is enduring. By sowing seeds of generosity and empathy, we create a legacy that outlives us, a world that is kinder, more understanding, and more nurturing for future generations. This is not just a responsibility, but a privilege — an opportunity to imprint our journey with acts of grace that resonate far beyond our own existence.
In light of their extraordinary contributions and selfless service, we firmly believe that ResortCom International Eagle’s Wings Foundation is a deserving candidate for this award. Their work not only changes lives today but also lays a strong foundation for a better tomorrow.
