Whole Foods Market’s non-profit arm, Whole Planet Foundation, kicks off its 2011 Prosperity Campaign at its stores nationwide with the goal of raising $2.5 million to fund microcredit projects in poor communities around the world.

As part of its 20th anniversary commemorating its founding, The International Ecotourism Society (TIES) has launched the annual Innovation Leadership in Sustainable Tourism Awards to recognize innovative leadership of individuals and organizations who promote sustainable tourism that results in tangible benefits to communities and conservation. TIES is the world’s oldest and largest association dedicated to promoting ecotourism.

The Red Cross has estimated that up to 3 million people may have been affected by Tuesday’s earthquake in Haiti. Many of us are looking for ways to help after hearing about the devastation. There is an immediate need for doctors and nurses. Otherwise, the consensus from most organizations is that money is needed most in relief efforts. They are not looking for clothes, food or volunteers right now.
Want to help immediately? Simply text ‘HAITI’ to ’90999′ and a donation of $10 will be given automatically to the Red Cross …

First hotels are offering free nights for community service, now retailers are embracing community volunteering or giving back — consumerism meets volunteerism.

Popular retailer, Banana Republic, announced the launched of the “ONE+ALL” campaign this week which will help local service organizations match up with Banana Republic customers who are interested in volunteering based on their skills and interests. Banana Republic employees will also provide professional development training to service nonprofit representatives, to help the nonprofits sharpen their recruiting and training strategies.
The retailer is committed to becoming a more eco-conscious brand, doing …

Are you thinking about volunteer travel aboard, voluntourism or volunteer vacations, but don’t know where to start? Idealist.org is sponsoring a free Global Volunteering Fair in Boston, New York City and Washington DC next week. You can meet reps from over 30 international volunteers organizations, hear about the global opportunities and check out their programs. This is a great chance to interact with reps, address your curiosities and concerns and get a better sense of their organization. There will also be workshops on “International Volunteerism 101″ and “Affordable Options …