MONTEGO BAY, Jamaica, November 10, 2022 - The only thing better than a glass of wine to top off a special celebration is the knowledge that every sip is also helping to make a meaningful difference in the lives of vulnerable young people. 

That’s exactly what’s being done through guests at the luxury- inclusive Sandals and Beaches Resorts as its philanthropic arm – Sandals Foundation has partnered with the resorts’ 5-Star Global Gourmet Food & Beverage department and international beverage alcohol company – Constellation Brands to raise just over US $17,000 to support hospitality training across the Caribbean.

Through two special Robert Mondavi Private Selection wine offerings on the resort’s late Chairman’s Wine List, the partnership has been able to raise an impressive US $8,500. And on Thursday, November 10, with a small contingent of Constellation Brands executives visiting Sandals Montego Bay Resort, the company proudly announced its decision to match the raised funds, allowing for even more to be done.

Speaking at the handover ceremony, Corporate Director, Food & Beverage at Sandals Resorts International, Ricky DuQuesnay says, “As couples at our resorts share their love with a taste of the exquisite Robert Mondavi Private Selection Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon wines, we are extremely pleased that we have been able to raise funds to strengthen our support of livelihood training and opportunities for young people in underserved communities.” 

Noting the impact of training and education in changing he lives of vulnerable youth, Executive Director at Sandals Foundation, Heidi Clarke said, “Vocational studies, for many young people stand as the only means through which they can chart a new path from their underserved or violent communities and create a better life for themselves. We are grateful to our food and beverage team on resorts and Constellation Brands that have made it possible for us to continue to support programmes that create employment not only within our resorts but in any space across the hospitality industry.”

"Giving back to the communities in which we live and work has been part of our company values and culture since Marvin Sands founded Constellation in 1945," says Jose "Pepe" Hermosillo, General Director LATAC / M&A Integration Lead. Sandals Foundation shares this same philosophy and we're proud to partner with them to make an even bigger impact by matching the funds raised. We're excited to be working together to provide opportunities for professional growth in our local communities."

Established in 2009, the Sandals Foundation uses the power of its tourism network to positively transform lives through the core areas of education, community and the environment.

With 100% of donated funds going directly to the implementation of programs, monies raised will enable the philanthropic group to continue to outfit hospitality schools and departments in Jamaica, Grenada, Turks and Caicos, Barbados, The Bahamas and more with the equipment and resources needed to train and certify the next generation of hospitality providers.