Airbnb and Hosts promote health care and education

In 2014, Hojin and his wife made a big decision: They left their jobs at a Seoul-based electronics manufacturing firm to embark on a world tour. Over the next year, they explored 30 countries across five continents, opting to stay at homes listed on Airbnb in each place they visited. 

Being warmly greeted by Hosts inspired Hojin to create similar experiences for other travelers. He became an Airbnb Host. He and his wife now have three listings in Seoul, where they’ve been welcoming guests for more than seven years.

“We believe that travel helps people grow and has a positive impact on the communities they live in,” Hojin says.

Hojin’s focus on community extends beyond hosting. As the Community Leader of the Seoul Host Club, Hojin nominated Good Neighbors International to receive an Airbnb Community Fund donation. Club members have an opportunity each year to support local communities through the Community Fund. 

The Seoul-based international relief and development nonprofit reaches 42 countries, including operating 52 branches of social welfare services for children in South Korea. Their goal is to end poverty, protect childrens’ rights, and support self-reliant, inclusive communities. 

Thanks to the Seoul Host Club’s nomination, Good Neighbors International received a $75,000 USD donation from the Airbnb Community Fund. The donation will support the organization’s efforts to improve global education and access to health care and clean drinking water.

Club members were also inspired by the organization’s work in the South Korean community, like providing menstrual supplies to young people, and plan to become volunteers.

More than 50 Host Clubs nominated nonprofits around the world to receive Airbnb Community Fund donations in 2023. Airbnb will distribute $100 million USD through 2030 to organizations around the globe.

Information contained in this article may have changed since publication.