Motorcoach Companies Helping Communities Devastated by Hurricane Helene

Hurricane Helene has left widespread destruction, impacting thousands of families and communities along the Atlantic Coast. Now, more than ever, our efforts can make a difference. Several motorcoach companies are stepping up to provide essential support, supplies, and aid to help these communities recover. Join us in this relief effort by donating or volunteering.

How You Can Help

You can get involved in the following ways:

  • Monetary Donations: Financial contributions go directly toward providing essentials like food, water, and shelter for those affected. You can donate directly to local relief organizations.
  • Supply Donations: Essential items like bottled water, canned goods, hygiene products, blankets, and first aid supplies are urgently needed. Find local drop-off points where you can bring these much-needed supplies.
  • Volunteer: Consider volunteering your time to help distribute supplies or assist with rebuilding efforts. Local organizations and motorcoach companies are organizing efforts to transport volunteers and supplies to the affected areas.

 

ABA Blog

Patti Lloyd, Lifelong Volunteer, Receives Lifetime Achievement Award from Governor Healey

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Long-time ABA member and volunteer Patti Lloyd was honored with the Larry D. Meehan Award for Lifetime Achievement at last week’s Governor’s Conference on Travel and Tourism. Gov. Maura Healey and Kate Fox of the Massachusetts Office of Tourism presented the award to Patti. This accolade, named after the late Larry Meehan, recognizes individuals who significantly contribute to Massachusetts’ tourism industry. Patti, a dedicated advocate for Cape Cod tourism, has tirelessly promoted the region for over two decades, showcasing its appeal for various events and gatherings.

Gov. Maura Healey presents Patti Lloyd with the Larry D. Meehan Lifetime Achievement award at the Governor's Conference on Travel and Tourism on April 2.
Gov. Maura Healey presents Patti Lloyd with the Larry D. Meehan Lifetime Achievement Award at the Governor’s Conference on Travel and Tourism on April 2. [Photo courtesy of Patti Lloyd]

Hired by the Cape Cod Chamber of Commerce in 2000, Patti’s commitment to promoting Cape Cod has been unwavering. She’s been instrumental in attracting visitors and businesses to the area, earning praise from industry figures like Wendy Northcross and ABA President Peter Pantuso. Her efforts have not only boosted tourism but also supported local economies.

For Patti, receiving the award is a surreal honor, considering Larry Meehan mentored her early in her career. This recognition adds to her extensive list of accolades, showcasing her impactful contributions to the tourism industry and her beloved Cape Cod community. Peter hailed Patti as an unparalleled ambassador for Cape Cod, highlighting her 28-year tenure as a steadfast presence at the association’s annual Marketplace events. Notably, her dedication extends beyond membership; she’s an avid volunteer and a former member of the Board of Directors, Pantuso emphasized. This year, her volunteer efforts earned her recognition from the association, with Peter revealing that the volunteer award will bear her name henceforth. She was also featured on the cover of the latest Destinations digital magazine.

“In my estimation, there is no finer person than Patti Lloyd,” Peter stated, underscoring her exceptional character and contribution to the industry.

“Truthfully, I was bowled over and have never volunteered to garnish awards or accolades,” said Patti after receiving the newly named ABA Patti Lloyd Volunteer Award. “Volunteerism was in my genes from my parents, and I find it rewarding. When you volunteer, you can meet folks that you may not have. It certainly has enhanced my destination and me personally. I strive always to enhance my personal best.”

Marketplace, the association’s premier conference, draws approximately 3,000 tourism industry partners and provided Patti with ample opportunities to showcase Cape Cod’s allure. Peter described her as tirelessly advocating for the region, whether by registering participants or guiding them toward Cape Cod’s offerings. The structured format of seven-minute appointments during the event resembled a “speed dating environment,” allowing Lloyd and her colleagues to continually pitch Cape Cod to interested clients.

“Every seven minutes, Patti would have an appointment to talk with someone about Cape Cod and try to get them to bring their business to the Cape,” Pantuso elaborated, highlighting Patti’s relentless pursuit of promoting Cape Cod’s tourism sector.

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