In today’s competitive world of nonprofit fundraising, creativity isn’t optional — it’s essential. Traditional donation drives and silent auctions still play their part, but the need for innovation has never been greater. This is where Rick Kennerknecht and his company Charity Safaris have carved out a unique niche, blending the excitement of adventure travel with the purpose of charitable giving.
By creating a fundraising model built around experience, connection, and value, Rick Kennerknecht has reshaped how many organizations think about raising money. His approach demonstrates that philanthropy can be as engaging as it is impactful — a win-win for donors, charities, and communities alike.
Rick Kennerknecht’s Vision and Entrepreneurial Roots
Rick Kennerknecht built his career on the idea that generosity can be fueled by experience. With a background in marketing, sales, and business development, he understood that people are more likely to give when they feel emotionally connected to a cause. His insight was simple but powerful: fundraising should be more than a request — it should be an experience.
That idea became the foundation for Charity Safaris, the company he founded to revolutionize nonprofit fundraising. Through this platform, Kennerknecht donates hunting and outdoor adventure trips to charities, churches, and nonprofit organizations, which they can then use as auction items during their fundraising events. The nonprofits keep 100% of the proceeds from the auction, and the winning donors get an unforgettable adventure.
This model reflects Rick Kennerknecht’s belief that philanthropy can be dynamic, exciting, and sustainable — not just for large organizations but also for smaller nonprofits that need creative ways to attract supporters.
Charity Safaris: A New Type of Fundraising Model
Charity Safaris operates on a concept that merges business logic with social purpose. Instead of relying solely on direct monetary donations, Kennerknecht’s company offers value-based contributions — real, high-end experiences that can raise significant funds at charity auctions.
The process is straightforward but effective:
-
Charity Safaris donates adventure trips (such as guided hunts or outdoor expeditions) to approved nonprofits.
-
Nonprofits auction the trips at their fundraising events, keeping all proceeds from the winning bids.
-
Winners redeem their trips through Charity Safaris, which arranges the travel experience with professional outfitters and guides.
This model allows charities to increase their fundraising potential without bearing upfront costs. It also offers donors a sense of excitement and engagement, as their contribution comes with a tangible, once-in-a-lifetime reward.
Rick Kennerknecht’s system is built on the idea of shared benefit. The charity gains essential funding, the donor enjoys a meaningful adventure, and the outfitters who host the trips gain visibility and business. It’s a circular model of giving, one where every participant contributes to a larger impact.
The Philosophy Behind Rick Kennerknecht’s Approach
At the heart of Rick Kennerknecht’s fundraising philosophy is a belief that generosity should feel rewarding. He views fundraising not as a transaction, but as a partnership between causes and supporters. This is what sets Charity Safaris apart from conventional donation platforms — it replaces passive giving with active participation.
Kennerknecht’s model also emphasizes trust, transparency, and collaboration. Every trip donation is structured clearly so that nonprofits understand the terms, and donors know exactly what to expect. This clarity has helped build credibility for the company among a wide range of charitable organizations.
Furthermore, Rick Kennerknecht’s fundraising model taps into human psychology. People are motivated by experiences, stories, and emotion. A donor who wins a safari trip doesn’t just give money — they create a memory tied to a cause they care about. That emotional connection often leads to long-term donor loyalty and repeat contributions, strengthening nonprofits in the long run.
Expanding the Impact: Beyond Adventure
While Charity Safaris is best known for its hunting and outdoor experiences, the underlying model can apply to many other forms of experiential giving. Rick Kennerknecht’s approach shows that organizations can think beyond products and donations — they can offer meaningful experiences that excite donors and strengthen engagement.
His methods have inspired other fundraising professionals to explore similar models, from travel packages to art experiences to local adventures. The principle remains the same: connect passion with purpose.
Rick Kennerknecht’s influence extends beyond his own business. Through educational content, consulting, and partnerships, he encourages nonprofits to modernize their strategies, focus on storytelling, and create events that feel memorable. His leadership demonstrates that effective fundraising depends as much on creativity as on structure.
The Legacy of Rick Kennerknecht and Charity Safaris
Rick Kennerknecht’s work represents a growing shift in philanthropy — one that blends entrepreneurship with empathy. His fundraising model is not just about generating money; it’s about creating a culture of engagement and excitement around giving.
Charity Safaris has become a case study in how thoughtful innovation can transform an entire sector. By leveraging adventure travel as a fundraising tool, Rick Kennerknecht has given charities a powerful new way to connect with supporters and achieve their missions.
As more organizations embrace creative approaches to fundraising, Rick Kennerknecht’s model stands out as proof that when generosity meets imagination, everyone wins.
His vision continues to inspire a new generation of nonprofit leaders to think differently — to see fundraising not as a burden, but as an opportunity to create joy, adventure, and meaningful change.