Best Western International today
announced its ongoing commitment to support emergency relief to victims of
the Indian Ocean earthquake and tsunamis. As part of its “Best Western for
a Better World” initiative, the company has pledged $1 million, with an
immediate donation of $100,000 distributed to Habitat for Humanity
International and another global charity to be named in the coming weeks. During the next two months, Best Western will encourage the company’s more
than 4,100 member properties around the world to donate $3.00 per room to
the campaign. Best Western guests will also be able to make cash donations
online by visiting http://www.bestwestern.com/.

From the money raised, 20 percent will be used to support Best Western
employees and their families in Southern Asia who have been affected by
the disaster. The remaining 80 percent will go to help ongoing programs in
the region. Initial assessments indicate that two hotels in Thailand—
the Best Western Premier Bangtao Beach Resort & Spa in Phuket and the Best
Western Palm Galleria in Phang Nga—have been impacted and are currently
closed for repairs. All other Best Western properties in South Asia and
India, which are located further inland or along the opposite side of the
coast, have not been affected. Currently many of these hotels are already
contributing to the relief efforts, such as providing accommodations to
those displaced by the tragedy.

“On behalf of Best Western International, I’d like to express our deepest
sympathy and condolences to all of those affected by the earthquake and
tsunamis that struck Southern Asia,” said David Kong, Best Western
president and CEO. “Best Western has a growing presence in Indonesia,
Thailand and India, and we see it as our responsibility to help the local
communities in times of need.”

“The scope and depth of this disaster are unimaginable,” said Paul
Leonard, chief executive officer of Habitat for Humanity International.
“The long-term needs of this region and its people will take years of help
from us and many others. With Best Western’s ongoing commitment, Habitat
for Humanity will be able to help rebuild the homes and lives of many
thousands of individuals throughout the region.”

After a thorough review to determine the most effective use of its yearly
resources, Best Western will name its second, principal “Best Western for
a Better World” partner later this month.

“Best Western for a Better World” is a multi-faceted community service
program dedicated to providing assistance to Best Western neighbors in
cities and countries across the globe. Through financial contributions,
product donations and volunteer activities, Best Western, its members,
employees and guests work together throughout the year, making a
difference by helping those in need.
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