WASHINGTON — The American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA), the AHLA Foundation and the BHN Group/Northstar Travel Group have named the co-founders of Procure Impact, the B2B marketplace for products that support workers in overlooked communities, as this year’s recipients of the Arne Sorenson Social Impact Leadership Award.
CEO Lauren McCann and president Jen Collins co-founded Procure Impact, which exclusively works with suppliers that employ trafficking survivors, veterans, refugees, people with disabilities and people who face barriers to work such as poverty, homelessness, mental health and trauma, addiction or a criminal history.
Their effort captures the spirit of the Arne Sorenson award, which is presented each year to senior-level executive in the lodging industry who is committed to social responsibility, provides innovative solutions for social challenges, empowers underprivileged communities and demonstrates results.
“We’re honoured to present Lauren and Jen with an award that reflects how they’re driving positive change every day by creating real opportunities for marginalized workers,” says Rosanna Maietta, president & CEO of AHLA. “They’re so deserving of the esteemed Sorenson Social Impact Leadership Award for their vision and leadership and unique approach and partnership with the hotel industry.”
The Arne Sorenson Social Impact Leadership Award was introduced in 2022 in honour of industry icon and former president & CEO of Marriott International, Arne Sorenson, who passed away in February 2021 and left a legacy of commitment to social impact, diversity, and sustainability.
