Rick Kennerknecht and Charity Safaris: Pioneering 100% Donations in Fundraising

Rick Kennerknecht and Charity Safaris stand as trailblazers, redefining the art of fundraising. They synchronized the appeal of wildlife exploration with the noble pursuit of giving back. Their groundbreaking approach revolves around offering unique hunting experiences that not only incentivize potential donors but also ensure that every cent of their contributions serves its intended charitable purpose. This conservation of wildlife and philanthropy, concerns and fosters an understanding of the complex web of ecosystems.

Rick Kennerknecht: Catalyst of Transformation

Rick Kennerknecht, a true visionary in the world of philanthropy, recognized the dire need to address both environmental conservation and communities in need.

In September 2019, Rick Kennerknecht founded Charity Safaris with the profound aim of revolutionizing the fundraising landscape and sparking transformative change. He built a model that encourages philanthropic efforts on both a local and international scale.

Rick and Charity Safaris achieved this by donating hunting trips to charitable organizations, which can then auction or raffle these experiences to generate funds. What sets this model apart is that charities retain 100% of the profits generated through these auctions or raffles.

A Mission to Amplify Charitable Endeavors

Wildlife conservation is the cornerstone of these adventures. As a result of these endeavors, hunters not only return home with fascinating stories and lasting memories but also a sense of purposeful distinction. In addition, the Charity Safaris emphasis on sustainability and local community engagement sets a precedent for accountable hunting practices, leading to diminished carbon footprints and more respectful interactions.

Established in September 2019 and led by Rick Kennerknecht as the company’s General Manager, Charity Safaris is driven by a noble mission. The mission is to assist charities in raising funds through the provision of unique and unforgettable experiences. This firsthand experience fosters a deeper understanding of conservation issues and can inspire vacationers to continue their support of such efforts once they return home.

Forging Sustainable Partnerships

With its inception in 2019, Charity Safaris and Rick Kennerknecht have nearly two decades of experience in the hunting industry. Over the years, Kennerknecht and his team have cultivated profound relationships with outfitters across South Africa, New Zealand, and Argentina. These relationships have enabled Charity Safaris to secure exclusive access to luxurious lodges, delectable cuisine, experienced guides, and complimentary transportation from the nearest airport. These benefits are extended at no cost to 501(c)(3) organizations and charities.

Charity safaris blend the attraction of normal wildlife exploration with the heartwarming pleasure of giving back. This sort of symbiotic relationship generates long-lasting benefits for both sides. 

Empowering a Unique Fundraising Model

Charity Safaris has forged a distinctive style of philanthropy. They specialize in connecting non-profit organizations and their donors through unique hunting trips that are auctioned or raffled at fundraising events. Through these partnerships, Charity Safaris enables the charities to keep 100% of the proceeds from the auction or raffle. In return, the outfitters provide their services at no cost to the charities. This balance between philanthropy and financial sustainability provides the foundation for an enduring partnership.

In doing so, hunters amplify the influence of their trips, extending it beyond the boundaries of their adventure experiences. This unique fundraising model empowers nonprofit organizations to achieve their visions and create remarkable outcomes.

Meeting the Desires of Donors

Charity Safaris taps into the high demand among Americans for hunting experiences, making these trips highly coveted. As hunting remains a popular pastime, donors are often willing to make significant contributions to secure these unique hunting adventures.

For example, The Kukhoma Project raised $1,950 with Charity Safaris hunting trip donations at its Bidding for Hope fundraiser in 2022. This organization is working to improve education, healthcare, and economic opportunities for residents in rural Zambia. The money will help increase enrollment rates in schools, improve access to medical care, and provide financial opportunities for locals.

Maintaining a Delicate Balance: The Profitable Generosity of Outfitters

One might wonder how such a model sustains itself when outfitters provide their services and hospitality for free. The answer lies in the equilibrium relationship forged between Charity Safaris and the outfitters. While outfitters do contribute their services without charge, this arrangement is not solely altruistic; it also brings unique benefits to the outfitters. As a result of this balanced relationship, donors can rest assured that their donations are being utilized for their intended purposes.

Trophy Fees: The Balancing Act

Outfitters charge trophy fees for each animal harvested during hunting expeditions. These fees cover the cost of the animals and operational expenses, allowing outfitters to contribute to charitable causes while also maintaining their financial sustainability.

Gratuities: Tokens of Appreciation

The relationship between hunters and outfitters thrives on mutual respect and appreciation. Hunters express their gratitude through gratuities, which serve not only as monetary gestures but also as support for the sustenance of outfitters and their staff. As a result, hunters return home with a lasting legacy of meaningful impact and enduring recollections.

Building Lasting Relationships

Beyond monetary benefits, outfitters also gain from the opportunity to forge positive relationships with potential future clients. They go the extra mile to ensure hunters have a memorable stay, with the expectation that these hunters will return for future trips at standard rates.

Charity Safaris’ Contribution

To ensure the sustainability of their philanthropic endeavors, Charity Safaris earns a small commission on the trophy fees paid by hunters to outfitters. This commission helps cover the operational costs of Charity Safaris while enabling the organization to pursue further charitable initiatives.

Other charitable organizations and non-profits can approach Charity Safaris to request hunting trip donations. Once approved, Charity Safaris provides these trips, allowing organizations to raise funds through live auctions, silent auctions, or raffles. Importantly, every dollar raised during these events goes directly to the charitable cause, maximizing the impact of their fundraising efforts.

Final Thoughts

Rick Kennerknecht’s visionary leadership and the innovative approach of Charity Safaris exemplify the potential of innovation, collaboration, and genuine passion to drive positive change. Through their pioneering efforts, they empower non-profits and charities to achieve their visions and true impact, leaving an enduring legacy of meaningful difference-making in the world. With a relentless focus on ensuring that every donation serves its intended purpose, Charity Safaris marks a new era in fundraising and creates unforgettable experiences for donors.