Dear Skål International members,

As the coordinating trustee of the Florimond Volckaert Fund, I am honored to reiterate our mission and the vital role that each of you plays in supporting our colleagues in need. 

But first of all, I would like to take this opportunity to sincerely thank Past Presidents Tony Clegg-Butt and Mok Singh, who completed their 8 years serving the Fund as Trustees and welcome Past Presidents Juan Steta and Nigel Pilkington on board.

Alongside our newly appointed fellow trustees, we are dedicated to upholding the legacy of Florimond Volckaert, a remarkable figure in our industry whose commitment to camaraderie and support continues to inspire us.

The Florimond Volckaert Fund was established in 1954; following a motion presented at the General Assembly held in Vienna by Honarary General Secretary Henry Tschann, to assist members of our Skål community who find themselves facing challenging circumstances. Whether due to unforeseen health issues, accidents, or other personal crises, our fund aims to provide financial assistance to those who have dedicated their lives to the travel and tourism industry. We believe that no member should have to navigate these difficulties alone, and it is our collective responsibility to extend a helping hand to our colleagues.

However, to continue our vital work, we rely on the generosity of our Skål International members and clubs around the world. Your donations, no matter the size, make a significant difference in the lives of those who need our support. 

In recent months, we have seen firsthand the impact of our fund. Members have reached out to share their stories of resilience and gratitude, illustrating how our support has helped them overcome challenges and rebuild their lives. These testimonials serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of our mission and the difference we can make together.

We encourage all Skål International members to consider making a donation to the Florimond Volckaert Fund. You can contribute individually or as a club, and we welcome any fundraising initiatives you may wish to organize. 

As we move forward, let us remember the spirit of solidarity that defines Skål International. Together, we can create a safety net for our community, ensuring that we stand by one another in times of hardship. Your support not only honors the legacy of Florimond Volckaert, who was the first Coordinating Trustee of the Fund, but also strengthens the bonds of friendship and cooperation within our organization.

For more information you can visit our page on the Skål International website.

Please encourage your Club to contribute and make your members more aware of what the Fund stands for and how together we can make a meaningful impact.

Florimond Volckaert Fund

• Hulya Aslantas, Coordinating Trustee.

• Juan Steta, Trustee.

• Nigel Pilkington, Trustee.