The inspiration behind AtlasDaughters
A note from the founder Amy Dornbusch
AtlasDaughters was inspired by a field journey I took to Zimbabwe with my daughter Ruby and my mother in the spring of 2023. I wanted to bring my daughter into my world of philanthropy and I experienced her blossom into a global traveler who contemplates global challenges and her ability to contribute to meaningful change. Spending a day with her peer kindergarten class at a school in the middle of Harare was a transformational experience for her. She learned how solar electricity works, witnessed a birth in a rural health clinic, and even helped with a solar panel installation. When we returned, I sat in the back of a crowded room as I watched her give a 45-minute presentation to her school all by herself on her experience in Zimbabwe. She was 6 years old at the time. We revel almost weekly on the beautiful memories we created together and today, a philanthropist is emerging. She understands intrinsically the work that her mother does in philanthropy and she wants to be involved.
“It is our vision that together you and your daughter will emerge inspired to make a meaningful impact”
As a foundation director, I have witnessed firsthand how "seeing is believing", and that while learning journeys are critically important for moving catalytic capital into organizational work, they are administratively burdensome for nonprofits to facilitate. AtlasDaughters was born to bridge these connections. We invite philanthropists and the philanthropy-curious to embrace the opportunity to align their values and interests with these specific programs in which they can become intimately familiar.
It is my dream to enable these experiences for you and your daughter and that together we can grow a tribe of tomorrow's leaders, as I truly believe they are never too young.
These journeys will give you unprecedented access to fully vetted nonprofit organizational work, and innovative solutions to challenges that are led by and for women. Our team has thoughtfully curated itineraries that balance field visits and cause-related education, with adventurous excursions that allow you to experience the beauty of what each location offers.
We won't forget to add in magical things like animal safaris or hikes to majestic waterfalls! The girls will have a unique opportunity to spend time with their peers and a translator, so they can begin to develop a sense of global citizenship and what a day in their lives is like. When not out and about, you will be led through various exercises and workshops that introduce early concepts of philanthropy. The trips are intentionally designed to take place during the school year, as they are meant to be an extension of learning in the world's classroom, with a pointed focus on character and leadership development alongside awareness of real-world challenges and solutions.
It is our vision that together you and your daughter will emerge inspired to make a meaningful impact both via philanthropy and advocacy, and that you will forever be bonded by the beautiful experience you shared together with AtlasDaughters. Let's go make some magic!
XOXO
Amy
“You will forever be bonded by the beautiful experience you shared together with AtlasDaughters. Let's go make some magic!”
A note from Ruby Dornbusch
In Zimbabwe I learned about solar electricity and how it helps people. The trip was really special for my mom and I and it was magical when we slept outside under the stars. Other girls should come on these trips because they are fun and it is important. When I came back home, I felt like a leader when I presented my trip to the class because I was able to teach them something. I understand how important it is to help other people live better lives. I can’t wait to go on more trips with my mom!
Love,
Ruby
6 years old
