Largest Single-Event Donation in Organizations’ Partnership Propels Total Contributions Beyond $625,000

OYSTER BAY, NY (October 8, 2026): Travel industry leaders TRAVELSAVERS and NEST have raised a record-breaking $125,000 for Autism Speaks at their recent Travel Market 2026 conference — the largest amount ever from a single event during their long-standing partnership with the organization.

The milestone achievement brings the total amount raised by the networks and their advisor, supplier and employee communities to more than $625,000. The donation underscores nearly two decades of commitment to creating a more inclusive world for individuals with autism and their families.

"Giving back has always been an important part of who we are as an organization," said Chief Operating Officer Jim Mazza. "The generosity demonstrated by our travel advisor community, staff and supplier partners continues to inspire us. Raising $125,000 this year and surpassing $625,000 in our partnership with Autism Speaks reflects the extraordinary impact we can make when our industry comes together for a common purpose."

The record amount was raised through a silent auction at the networks’ global conference, Travel Market 2026, a fundraiser which has become a tradition at the event. Featuring dozens of prizes donated by preferred partners, the event demonstrated the remarkable generosity and spirit of a travel industry united behind a meaningful cause.

Travel Market serves as a gathering place for the industry's most engaged professionals to exchange ideas, strengthen partnerships and drive business growth. At the same time, it provides an opportunity for attendees to support an organization that has become deeply woven into the fabric of the event.

"Autism Speaks is doing meaningful work every day to support individuals on the spectrum and their families," said Chief Sales Officer Kathryn Mazza-Burney. "We are proud that Travel Market has become a platform not only for business growth and industry collaboration, but also for creating positive change. The passion and generosity of our attendees continue to make a lasting difference."

TRAVELSAVERS and NEST are proud to be long-time advocates for Autism Speaks. The organization is dedicated to creating an inclusive world where individuals with autism can reach their potential. According to the Centers for Disease Control, autism affects an estimated 1 in 31 children and 1 in 45 adults in the United States today.

"We are incredibly grateful for the continued partnership with the entire TRAVELSAVERS and NEST family," said Christie Godowski, Vice President, Community Engagement at Autism Speaks. "The dedication, enthusiasm and compassion behind this record donation truly reflects the heart of this community. The impact of these funds will benefit countless individuals and families we serve."

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About TRAVELSAVERS

Founded in 1970, TRAVELSAVERS is an international marketing leader of more than 2,000 independent agencies in over 35 countries. Through the buying power of $20 billion in annual sales, its more than 25,000 advisors are able to offer clients inspirational travel experiences at the best value. With a global reputation for excellence, TRAVELSAVERS equips its community of leisure and corporate agencies to maximize sales and profits with cutting-edge products and services. Through a protected territory system, strong partnerships, award-winning marketing, innovative technology, continuous learning, networking events, and personalized coaching, TRAVELSAVERS champions travel professionals and empowers advisors to succeed. For more information, visit www.travelsavers.com.

About NEST

The Network of Entrepreneurs Selling Travel is the industry’s first and only marketing group exclusively for independent home-based travel agencies. The company empowers home-based advisors to achieve greater success financially, professionally and personally by championing best practices, solutions and opportunities. NEST helps home-based travel entrepreneurs build their business, keep their identity and maintain control. The network delivers what home-based advisors need to increase their competitive edge and profitability, including a high level of personalized support, award-winning marketing, preferred partner portfolio, education, exclusive networking and events, and innovative technology. NEST also helps suppliers reach the rapidly growing home-based distribution channel with training, motivation, offers and compensation. For more information, visit www.jointhenest.com.

About Autism Speaks

In partnership with autistic people, Autism Speaks works to create an inclusive world and redefine possible for people with autism across their lifespan. As the largest autism organization in the U.S., Autism Speaks has spent more than two decades driving research, expanding services, and shaping policy to improve quality of life. Each year, the organization connects millions of autistic people and their families to free resources, advocacy and support, while working across sectors to advance disability inclusion and opportunity.  Learn more at AutismSpeaks.org and follow @AutismSpeaks on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and LinkedIn.