Pulse Legacy Archive December 2011 | Page 40

It is a known fact that the spa industry has a big heart. But the industry’s capacity to give extends beyond the simple donation of money. For many spas, giving back means sharing the most priceless of donation: Service and time. “Volunteering builds a stronger team by bringing people from different disciplines and departments together,” says Travis Anderson, Fueling the director of spa of Lantana Spa at JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa based in Texas. “By associates getting to know each other on a different level, they come back to their regular jobs with a more appreciation for each other.” Hanna Bankston, marketing manager of Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe of Volunteerism Resort, Spa and Casino located in Nevada, agrees, adding that volunteerism’s ability to build relationships extends beyond the work place as it gives opportunities to connect with the community the resort and spa serves. “[We are motivated] to bring our resort and outside organizations together by spreading a socially responsible message.” 38 PULSE ■ December 2011 Spirit BY MAE MAÑACAP-JOHNSON