HANDLERY FOUNDATION REAFFIRMS PLEDGE TO AHLEF WITH $10,000 DONATION

Washington, D.C. (June 18, 2018) — A longstanding ally of the American Hotel & Lodging Educational Foundation (AHLEF), The Handlery Foundation has once again generously contributed a $10,000 gift to the Annual Giving Campaign. The fourth gift at the Leadership Level, The Handlery Foundation has funded previous capital campaigns and yearly contributions to an endowed scholarship fund.

The Annual Giving Campaign is AHLEF’s annual fundraiser and is critical in enabling the organization to fulfill its mission. “It’s my family’s mission to make a difference,” said Jon Handlery, President of Handlery Hotels. “Our father, Paul, knew the significance of giving back to the hospitality industry, and ensuring its health and vitality. As one of the early trustees of AHLEF, he spearheaded the Foundation’s first major fundraising initiative, and we hope to continue carving his path, nurturing this relationship and funding bright futures for years to come.”

Thanks to the tremendous contributions made by Foundation donors, including the Handlery family, AHLEF will exceed a million dollars in annual scholarship funding, enroll over 2,250 apprentices over the next five years, and continue funding important research.

Established in 1982 by Paul Handlery, AHLEF’s Honorary Chairman for Life, The Handlery Scholarship has grown in contributions and investment earnings by nearly one million dollars, and is currently valued at approximately $800,000. More than 320 students have received funds since the scholarship began, totaling $485,000.

“For over 30 years the Handlery Foundation has supported AHLEF’s mission through their endowed scholarship which has been instrumental in changing so many lives and providing youth with a pathway toward a career,” said Rosanna Maietta, AHLEF president. “Their generosity allows the Foundation to provide a chance to aspiring youth while also serving as a model for other industry leaders. We are so grateful to all they do to keep this great industry strong.”

AHLEF is the not-for-profit affiliate of AHLA and is funded solely by charitable donations from progressive hospitality leaders and companies within the industry. Support the Foundation by helping fund the future of the lodging industry. For more information about donating, contact Michelle Poinelli, Senior Vice President of Foundation Programs, at (202) 289-3181 or mpoinelli@ahlef.org, or visit www.ahlef.org.

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AHLEF is the industry’s philanthropic organization, dedicated to helping people build careers that improve their lives and strengthen the lodging industry. Founded in 1953, AHLEF is a subsidiary of the American Hotel & Lodging Association and provides resources for hospitality-related education, career development, research and public awareness of the industry. Since its inception approximately $24 million has been awarded in the way of scholarships and research grants, as well as invested in key programs, such as career development and school-to-career, that directly affect the long-term goals and success of the hospitality industry. The Foundation is funded solely by contributions from generous individuals and companies who want to give back to the hotel industry and ensure a successful future. Learn more at www.AHLEF.org.