I am proud to be a part of the travel community’s commitment to making a difference in the world, and today I’d like to introduce you to a special program called Passports with Purpose.

If you’ve been following my blog, you’ll know that I’ve been involved with past PwP initiatives that benefited Heifer International the first year, and the Passports School with American Assistance for Cambodia (AAfC) last year. Both efforts were huge successes, so we’re dreaming even bigger this year.

This year we are aiming to build a village in India!

I am joining over 100 travel writers around the world in this annual community fundraiser, which runs from today through December 13, 2010. During this month,  we will participate by blogging about PwP and donating a prize for the fundraiser. I spoke with the CEO of Eddie Bauer, who graciously donated a super lightweight, super warm Downlight® Sweater to keep you warm this winter. A part of its technical First Ascent line, this sweater’s ancestor was the favorite of Jim Whittaker’s when he became the first American to summit Everest in 1963.

To see this gift and a list of prizes, click here.

Each $10 donation enters a person to win a prize of their choice. On December 17, a winner will be randomly selected for each prize. Donations go directly to the 2010 beneficiary, Land for Tillers’ Freedom (LAFTI), a non-profit organization that is focused on changing the conditions of the Dalit caste or India’s “untouchables.” And, yes, your contribution is tax-deductible.

For just $10 YOU can be a part of this project. YOU can also win a great prize just by helping out.

Won’t you help us build a village in India?

To see an inspiring video of how you’re donation will directly benefit the Dalit people, click here. As David Albert with Friends of LAFTI says, “Yelam Seyalkoothum!” (Everything is Possible!)

Thank you, and Adventure On!

Kristen