In 2025, I had the incredible opportunity to introduce a new initiative here at Backroads: the Give Back Field Project (GBFP) program. GBFP is the realization of a dream that came to life after conversations with so many passionate Field Staff who were already finding meaningful ways to give back to the regions that welcome us with such openness and generosity.
Calling it “new” almost feels misleading. In many ways, GBFP just formalized work that had been happening organically around the world for years. Our leaders were already strengthening community relationships through service. What the program offered was structure, support and the chance to turn those individual efforts into something more connected and lasting. Seeing how wholeheartedly our Field Staff embraced it has been amazing.
The Give Back Field Project program was designed to help leaders bring their ideas to life. Through the program, Field Staff can dedicate up to ten paid volunteer hours each year or apply for community donations ranging from $100 to $5,000 to support local initiatives. The goal is straightforward: remove barriers and empower our teams to take action in the communities where they live, work and travel.
And they did just that. Since launching in the spring, we’ve received 26 proposals across 24 regions, representing more than 500 hours of volunteer time and eight funded community projects. From trail cleanups in Alaska to ocean conservation in the Azores, each project reflects how deeply our leaders care about protecting the places that make Backroads travel so special, and ensuring those communities continue to thrive.
Give Back Field Project Snapshots
- In Ecuador, we worked with the Fundación Galo Plaza Lasso to help restore the Zuleta Interpretation Center, supporting its mission to protect the endangered Andean condor.
- In Cuba, one of our leaders brought together artists and cyclists for a 600-mile “Community Arts Ride,” combining creativity and community engagement in small towns across the island.
- In Nova Scotia, Field Staff supported the volunteer-run Tancook Island Recreation Centre, helping the community prepare for the changes that new ferry access will bring.
- In the Azores, we contributed to Save Azores Waves, a grassroots organization protecting island coastlines through education, cleanups and advocacy.
- In the Cederberg Wilderness area of South Africa, we collaborated with Sustainable Ceder to support their Ceder Guardians initiative to advance eco-tourism while restoring the critically endangered Clanwilliam cedar, a vital part of the Cederberg region’s ecosystem.
- In the Netherlands, thirteen members of our new Utrecht office and two leaders joined thousands of cyclists in the Cycling 4 Climate ride, tracing the Netherlands’ “future coastline” to raise awareness about sea level rise.
- And in Iceland, Canada, Norway and Alaska, leaders rolled up their sleeves for trail work and beach cleanups, reminding us that even small actions can leave lasting marks.
The first year of the Give Back Field Project exceeded every expectation. What began as an idea, an easier way to connect our global Field Staff with the communities that host us, has become a movement powered by initiative, empathy and teamwork. I’m deeply grateful to everyone who submitted proposals, volunteered their time and built partnerships that will last far beyond a single season. Together, you’ve shown what responsible travel looks like in practice: travel that uplifts, respects and invests in the world around us.
Learn More About Backroad's Commitment to Responsible Travel
