Images provided by the Manchester Business Association: Picture: All three charitable organizations were greeted on Monday by MBA and Chamber Staff handing over a donation check.
Vermont Business Magazine The 2023 Shires’ Holiday Inn Tours, organized by the Manchester Business Association & The Shires of Southwestern Vermont Destination Marketing Organization (DMO), concluded in December, leaving a festive trail of success and generosity. This three-decade-long tradition continued its legacy on Saturday, December 2, and Saturday, December 9, of 2023 as patrons embarked on self-guided tours exploring Vermont's charming inns and historic hotels.
The Shires lodging properties featured historic hotels, cozy inns, delightful B&Bs, and lodges, all opening their doors from 11 am to 3 pm each Saturday. This beloved event not only allowed lodging partners to showcase their unique properties but also provided visitors with a festive holiday atmosphere, tasty local treats and beverages. However, the true highlight of the event was the impact on food insecurity, as every ticket sold contributed to local charitable causes.
This year, the 2023 Shires’ Holiday Inn Tours raised an outstanding total of $4,710 from ticket sales. The entire proceeds from ticket sales were dedicated to supporting local communities, with significant contributions allocated to three charitable organizations:
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The Community Food Cupboard of Manchester received $2,119.50
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Arlington Food Shelf received $1,177.50
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Meals on Wheels of Bennington County received $1,413
These substantial contributions underscore the commitment of the event organizers and participants to making a positive impact on the lives of those in need, especially during the holiday season.
"This year, the Inn Tours raised just over $4,700, thanks to the generosity of the attendees and our participating lodging partners," says Manchester Business Association executive director and event producer John Burnham. This year saw the biggest number of participating lodging properties ever, with eighteen of them. Burnham continued “We could not have raised the necessary funds to contribute to our local food banks without the help of these partners.”
The participating lodging partners included South Shire Inn, The Four Chimneys Inn, Rockwell’s Retreat, West Mountain Inn, The Arlington Inn, The Ira Allen House, Hill Farm, The Inn at Ormsby Hill, Kimpton Taconic Hotel, Wilburton Destination Resort, The Equinox Golf Resort and Spa, The Reluctant Panther, Northshire Lodge, Hampton Inn and Suites, The Barrows House Inn, The Dorset Inn, Squire House B&B and The Wilson House.
"The heart of The Shires of Southwestern Vermont is not just about showcasing our picturesque inns and hotels; it's a celebration of the season's true spirit,” states Matt Harrington, executive director of the Southwestern Vermont Chamber which oversees The Shires DMO. “The funds raised during the 2023 Shires' Holiday Inn Tours represent a collective effort to support local charities. Even our ongoing partnership with the Manchester Business Association is a testament to spirited collaboration. While we strive through the Shires DMO organization to cultivate memorable experiences for locals and visitors alike, we’re also committed to the community and the local people that make our region exceptional. A special thank you to all the properties and people that participated this past year."
For those who missed the opportunity to participate or want to relive the experience, stay tuned for future events, and visit the official website for updates and information: https://exploretheshires.com/shiresholidayinntours.
Source: 1.31.2024. Southwestern Vermont — SWVTChamber.com
