Philosophies
Ten Directions' philosophy of philanthropic and adventure travel follows the practices of sustainable aid, green travel, and cultural immersion.
Sustainable Aid
Our focus is on sustainable aid, which empowers people and communities to become self-sufficient. We believe that poverty, hunger, and environmental destruction are all problems that can be diminished. Experience has taught us that community involvement is essential for the permanent integration and sustainability of aid projects. We work with organizations, governments, and communities to build schools, improve healthcare, facilitate clean and safe drinking water, and provide knowledge and tools for viable agriculture. These cooperative initiatives not only ensure the lasting viability of the projects, but also create relationships that allow program participants to integrate more seamlessly into the variety of communities we serve.
Green Travel
Green travel is responsible travel, concerned with respecting the environmental, economic, and cultural integrity of the communities we visit. It is about reducing our carbon footprint and preserving the environment. Rather, we engage in local practices, form relationships, and "leave only footprints, and take only photographs."
Cultural Immersion
Cultural immersion includes visiting and integrating into diverse communities. We advocate becoming familiar with local customs and cultures and we aim to foster positive interactions with local community members. We learn from those we engage with, more fully understanding how others may live and their intangible values.
At Ten Directions, we seek solutions to global issues and problems. We break down stereotypes, and gain knowledge of unique cultures, customs, and language. Program participants naturally expand their world view, and learn to think and problem solve creatively. Each of our courses challenges our participants and, in the process, encourages personal growth, promotes creative problem solving, and builds knowledge and confidence for effective leadership.
Sustainable Aid
Our focus is on sustainable aid, which empowers people and communities to become self-sufficient. We believe that poverty, hunger, and environmental destruction are all problems that can be diminished. Experience has taught us that community involvement is essential for the permanent integration and sustainability of aid projects. We work with organizations, governments, and communities to build schools, improve healthcare, facilitate clean and safe drinking water, and provide knowledge and tools for viable agriculture. These cooperative initiatives not only ensure the lasting viability of the projects, but also create relationships that allow program participants to integrate more seamlessly into the variety of communities we serve.
Green Travel
Green travel is responsible travel, concerned with respecting the environmental, economic, and cultural integrity of the communities we visit. It is about reducing our carbon footprint and preserving the environment. Rather, we engage in local practices, form relationships, and "leave only footprints, and take only photographs."
Cultural Immersion
Cultural immersion includes visiting and integrating into diverse communities. We advocate becoming familiar with local customs and cultures and we aim to foster positive interactions with local community members. We learn from those we engage with, more fully understanding how others may live and their intangible values.
At Ten Directions, we seek solutions to global issues and problems. We break down stereotypes, and gain knowledge of unique cultures, customs, and language. Program participants naturally expand their world view, and learn to think and problem solve creatively. Each of our courses challenges our participants and, in the process, encourages personal growth, promotes creative problem solving, and builds knowledge and confidence for effective leadership.