Honors highlight Visit Orlando’s impact across the travel industry and Central Florida community
ORLANDO, Fla. [July 10, 2025] — Visit Orlando, a not-for-profit trade association dedicated to branding, marketing and selling the Orlando destination globally, is proud to celebrate three recent accolades. The organization received awards honoring its leadership in travel and tourism with the Destination Marketing Accreditation program; dedication to the Central Florida community through the Harris Rosen Philanthropic Award; and commitment to fostering a positive workplace environment with the third straight year of Best Places to Work in Central Florida.
“I’m incredibly proud how Visit Orlando continues to lead with purpose – driving economic growth, elevating our destination and giving back to the community in meaningful ways,” said Barb Bowden, chair of the board of directors for Visit Orlando. “These recognitions highlight the organization’s far-reaching impact and its longstanding commitment to making Central Florida a better place to live, work and visit.”
Harris Rosen Philanthropic Award
On July 9, Visit Orlando received the 8th Annual Harris Rosen Philanthropic Award, presented by the International Drive Resort Area Chamber of Commerce during the “Heart of I-Drive” Luncheon. Inspired by the legacy of renowned hotelier and philanthropist Harris Rosen, the award recognizes organizations that demonstrate a deep and lasting commitment to giving back.
Visit Orlando was honored for its long-standing dedication to charitable initiatives and work, including Visit Orlando’s Magical Dining program – which has raised nearly $3 million for local nonprofits since 2009 – as well as year-round employee volunteerism and community engagement.
“At Visit Orlando, we believe that tourism is more than an economic engine, it’s a bridge to a stronger, more connected community,” said Casandra Matej, president and CEO of Visit Orlando. “Thank you to the I Drive Chamber for this recognition, which is especially meaningful given the award’s namesake, Harris Rosen, who truly embodied the spirit of giving back and community transformation. This award is more than an honor; it’s a reminder that when we lead with service, we don’t just strengthen the tourism industry, we help create a stronger, more connected community for all.”
Destination Marketing Accreditation Program
Also on July 9, Visit Orlando was awarded the Destination Marketing Accreditation Program (DMAP) designation by Destinations International in recognition of the organization's commitment to industry excellence and meeting the industry standard for performance and accountability of destination organizations around the world. Visit Orlando has consistently achieved accreditation since first applying in 2008. Reaccreditation must be completed every five years.
Destinations International is the world’s largest and most trusted resource for destination organizations, convention and visitors bureaus (CVBs) and tourism boards with more than 8,000 members and partners from over 750 destinations. The accreditation program requires a destination organization to successfully comply with a multitude of mandatory and voluntary standards that span a variety of performance areas to gain this momentous achievement. The standards cover nearly all aspects related to the management and marketing of destination organizations including governance, finance, human resources, sales, communications, destination development and research.
“Visit Orlando is a leader in the Destination Management industry, consistently maintaining accreditation for nearly 20 years," stated Don Welsh, president & CEO of Destinations International. "The relevance of destination organizations has never been more vital to the economic vitality of the places Destinations International members serve, and this industry accreditation is a benchmark for quality and performance."
Best Places to Work in Central Florida
Visit Orlando was named one of the Orlando Business Journal’s Best Places to Work in Central Florida for the third year in a row. Based on anonymous employee feedback, the recognition reflects a workplace culture rooted in collaboration and inclusion.
“There’s a shared pride that makes Visit Orlando truly special. From the moment I started in my role, it felt like a company that celebrates all people,” said Malia Belleza, vacation planner at Visit Orlando. “Each team member brings an energy and pride you can feel throughout the company. It’s all about loving Orlando and showcasing our destination to residents and travelers from all over.”
From its industry leadership to giving back to establishing itself as a top employer, Visit Orlando is committed to delivering on its mission to provide strong economic and community impact.