NEW YORK, Dec. 18, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Yesterday, the
spirit of giving was on full display at the Lotte New York Palace
hotel, where luxury travel agency Protravel International hosted a
party for children with brain tumors and their families. More than
240 guests celebrated the holidays with activities and games, food
and beverages, performers and a special visit from Santa Claus who
presented gifts to each child.
"The Children's Holiday Party is a testament to the caring and
dedication of our wonderful Protravel International team," said
Gail Grimmett, Protravel President.
"Long ago they decided to forego their own gift exchange to bring
the holiday spirit to these children and I couldn't be prouder of
their efforts and the beautiful memories they've helped create for
these families. Protravel's commitment to giving back is evident in
this inspiring 30-year tradition."
This year the party was held in the ballroom at the Palace,
where the children and families were treated to a festive dinner,
live guitar music by Dan Lopez and a
host of activities including arts and crafts, games, a personal
trainer leading physical activities, and face painting with
Protravel volunteers. More than 20 costumed characters and
performers circulated the room including magician Seth Dale, stilt walkers, clowns, a balloon
artist, several Disney princesses, and champion yo-yoer
George John, who shared techniques
with guests. The highlight of the night occurred when each child
was given the opportunity for a special visit with Santa Claus
during which he presented them with several gifts chosen
specifically for them.
For 33 years, the Children's Holiday Party has been coordinated
by Protravel's Senior Vice President of Leisure Sales &
Marketing, Andy Pesky, who is a
brain tumor survivor himself.
"We couldn't host this party without the considerable efforts of
so many of our dedicated colleagues, providers and customers who
help us pull off this wonderful event each year," said Pesky. "The
volunteers are vital in helping us bring this joyful event to these
children and their families."
In addition to Protravel International, whose agents and
employees staffed the party, event sponsors included Enterprise
Rent-a-Car and Preferred Hotels and Resorts, which each ran toy
drives among employees; Melissa and Doug, which donated toys; and
Major League Baseball, which contributed jerseys for each
child.
"Holidays can be difficult for families who feel like they live
between the hospital and home," says Stacia
Wagner, Vice President of Quality of Life Programs at the
Children's Brain Tumor Foundation. "The party gave them a chance to
truly celebrate and laugh together. It also gives them a wonderful
opportunity for companionship with other families going through the
same difficult time. Thank you to Protravel International and their
dedicated volunteers for creating a magical day that the children
enjoyed and their families will cherish."
Images are available at:
https://drive.google.com/open?id=1WQgFWqSgfbbN6RiOspHeV-62RjnMYtor
About Protravel International LLC:
Protravel International LLC is a Travel Leaders
Group company. Founded in 1984, Protravel International LLC is
a full-service, dynamic travel company with an award-winning
reputation. With annual sales reaching close to $1 billion, Protravel is headquartered in
New York City and supports 20
locations throughout the United
States and the United
Kingdom, plus a network of hosted agents in all corners of
the U.S. Our expertise in destination, international faring and
competitive products – coupled with our superior network of
contacts in the airline, hotel, cruise and hospitality industry –
makes Protravel one of the most powerful selling forces in the
travel industry.
Contact: Carrie
Culpepper
804-338-5669
cculpepper@travelleaders.com
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content:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/protravel-international-brought-holiday-cheer-to-young-patients-300572855.html
SOURCE Travel Leaders