Muy’Ono Resorts, Belize’s premier collection of resorts, is thrilled to announce that it has surpassed the $1 million mark in their Nightly Donation Program. This achievement highlights the company’s proactive, employee-driven approach to giving, focusing on grassroots charity organizations across the country that align with the values and communities where their staff live.
Founded in 2018 by CEO Cortney Lebens, the philanthropy program was created with a mission to empower employees and address local needs in a meaningful way. The initiative goes beyond monetary donations—employees contribute their time and labor and take a hands-on approach. From building roofs and renovating schools to funding scholarships and distributing holiday gifts, Muy’Ono’s employees choose organizations that can make a lasting impact.
“Our goal is to identify local organizations that can truly benefit from our support—both financially and physically,” said Reynaldo Malik, Muy’Ono Chief Operating Officer, who has overseen the program since its inception. “We don’t wait to be asked for help; we actively seek out opportunities to make a difference.”
Grassroots Giving: A Unique Model in Hospitality
Muy’Ono’s donation program stands out in the hospitality industry. Each resort under the Muy’Ono umbrella selects charitable recipients monthly, reflecting the needs of the local communities where their employees reside rather than where the resort is located. The charities are community-based initiatives to ensure the funds have a direct and meaningful impact.
Projects completed over the years include everything from installing new whiteboards and fans in schools to funding scholarships and purchasing essential school supplies. “In 2018, I led a school renovation myself, replacing old roofs and classroom furniture. That experience solidified the importance of this program for me personally,” added Reynaldo.
Empowering Employees, Engaging Guests
At the heart of the program lies employee empowerment. Each resort team not only selects the recipients but actively participates in community outreach, strengthening their connection to both the company values and their communities. This employee-led approach fosters a sense of belonging within the company while also motivating employees to continually find new ways to give back.
Guests are invited and encouraged to participate as well. Through a nightly donation program, a portion of the nightly room rate at each property is automatically allocated toward the charitable initiative of the month. Guests can match these donations at checkout, with 24% currently opting to contribute. Muy’Ono aims to increase guest engagement to reach 50% match participation. Below is the amount each resort donates automatically on behalf of the guest for each night they stay:
- Copal Tree: $5 BZD per Night
- Hopkins Bay Resort: $2 BZD per Night
- Royal Belize : $100 BZD per Night
- Thatch Caye and Sweet Songs: $5 BZD per Night
A Legacy of Impact
Among the organizations benefiting from Muy’Ono’s efforts are King’s Children’s Home, located just eight miles from the company’s headquarters, and Marla’s House of Hope, a safe haven for girls in crisis. Graduates from King’s Children’s Home have gone on to achieve remarkable success, including a double master’s degree recipient in finance and a doctor bringing advanced medical technologies to Belize.
Muy’Ono Resort’s giving also aligns with the cultural rhythm of the country. In June, employees pack school supplies for children returning to school in August. In November and December, toy drives and pantry programs bring holiday cheer to local communities. These timely efforts ensure that giving is not a seasonal afterthought but a continuous part of the company’s operations.
“This program is part of who we are—it’s not a set-it-and-forget-it initiative. It’s woven into the daily life at our resorts,” said Reynaldo. “We challenge other resorts and hospitality groups to follow our lead. There are enough successful hotels that can make a similar impact. It just takes initiative.”
Path to $2 Million and Beyond
Looking ahead, Muy’Ono Resorts is working toward achieving $2 million in donations within the next 3.5 years by deepening the guest match at checkout. With its innovative giving model, Muy’Ono is setting a new standard for sustainable tourism and hospitality philanthropy. “When guests choose to stay with us, they aren’t just booking a vacation—they’re directly supporting the future of Belize’s communities.”
This community-first donation program is just one pillar of Muy’Ono Resort’s three-pronged approach to giving back. Since 2023, Muy’Ono’s Travel Better for Charity program has helped raise over $5.32 million USD for charities through live and silent auctions, further advancing its mission of meaningful impact.
Muy’Ono Resorts are also proud members of Pack for a Purpose, an initiative that empowers travelers to make a lasting difference. By setting aside a little space in your suitcase for essential supplies to bring with you to Belize, you can help improve the lives of local children and families throughout the country.
When you plan your Belize vacation at a Muy’Ono Resort, you’re not just booking a getaway—you’re becoming part of a legacy of giving. By staying with us, you directly contribute to the communities that make Belize so special. Join us in making a meaningful impact while experiencing the beauty and culture of this incredible destination. Your vacation can make a difference!
