Menu
This idea for the annual tradition came to fruition over three decades ago when I decided to forgo my former company’s gift exchange and utilize the money for something greater. My wife Elaine and I were inspired to bring the holiday spirit to those who need it most, and we have since carried the tradition over to Protravel International where we have raised funding, secured donations and staged this holiday event for those in need every year for thirty-five years.
Protravel’s Long-Standing Tradition of Bringing Joy to Families in Need Continues
New York, New York (Dec. 18, 2019) — Top luxury travel agency, Protravel International joined forces with Mount Sinai Beth Israel and the Children’s Brain Tumor Foundation (CBTF) to host its 35th annual holiday party for over 400 children and their families to spread some much-needed holiday cheer. The family event was created years ago by Protravel’s Senior Vice President of Leisure & Sales Marketing, Andy Pesky, who is a brain tumor survivor himself.
This year, the event was hosted by CBS New York Anchor Kristine Johnson and the spirit of hope and giving was on full display at the hospital, where more than 100 Protravel advisors and employees-turned-elves and other Christmas characters, along with a growing team of volunteers and sponsors, treated the families to a festive meal, live music and a host of activities such as arts and crafts, face painting and more. The event was capped off with a visit from Santa Claus, bringing gifts, chosen specifically for each child in attendance.
“This idea for the annual tradition came to fruition over three decades ago when I decided to forgo my former company’s gift exchange and utilize the money for something greater,” said Andy Pesky, Senior Vice President of Leisure & Sales Marketing. “My wife Elaine and I were inspired to bring the holiday spirit to those who need it most, and we have since carried the tradition over to Protravel International where we have raised funding, secured donations and staged this holiday event for those in need every year for thirty-five years.”
The staff at Mount Sinai Beth Israel, under the leadership of the clinic medical office Dr. Lim and Marcia Graham, help Protravel in making the day such a success. Protravel sends a Santa to visit patients in the hospital while the food at the event is provided by New York’s best hotels. Many industry friends work the event alongside more than 100 Protravel volunteers.
With more than 4,000 diagnoses each year, brain tumors are the second most common cancer in children. The Children’s Brain Tumor Foundation (CBTF) is a non-profit organization founded in 1988 by dedicated parents, physicians and friends, and is committed to finding a cure for pediatric brain tumors. Mount Sinai Beth Israel provides inpatient and outpatient care to approximately 250 children while CBTF supports about 150 young brain tumor patients.
About Protravel International, LLC
Protravel International, LLC is a Travel Leaders Group company. Founded in 1984, Protravel International, LLC is a full-service, dynamic travel company with an award-winning reputation. Protravel is headquartered in New York City and supports 24 locations throughout the United States and the United Kingdom, plus a network of hosted agents in all corners of the U.S. Today, approximately 900 people make up the Protravel organization. Our expertise in destination, international faring and competitive products – coupled with our superior network of contacts in the airline, hotel, cruise and hospitality industry – makes Protravel one of the most powerful selling forces in the travel industry. Protravel clients also have access to The Travel Collection by Travel Leaders Group, a selection of travel offers and discounts available at no additional cost to holders of select American Express® cards. For more information visit www.TheTravelCollection.com.
