Hospitality company Wyndham Worldwide is using mobile check-ins to drive charity donations and brand awareness during the company’s Wyndham Championship golf tournament.

Based on the number of check-ins, Wyndham will donate money to local and national children’s organizations. The company is using both Facebook and foursquare to engage users with the campaign.

“The tournament provides the platform for us to connect with our customers and guests while expanding the reach of our charitable giving program, Wishes by Wyndham,” said Alyson Johnson, vice president of marketing and communications for Wyndham Worldwide, Parsippany, NJ.

Wyndham Worldwide offers hospitality services and products to approximately 7,380 franchised hotels and vacation ownership resorts and 3.8 million members worldwide.

Check-in donations
Wyndham Championship participants can check-in to the tournament via Facebook Places and foursquare.

For each check-in, the company will donate to its Wishes by Wyndham charities.
The charities aim to help disadvantaged children throughout the world.

“With multiple locations throughout the course, our social media campaign is another way for attendees to stay connected while at the Wyndham Championship,” Ms. Johnson said.

“Last year the Wyndham Championship was the first to test the usage of cell phones on course, and this year, we are excited to add the mobile and social campaign to enhance the fan experience,” she said.

The tournament runs through Aug. 21.

In addition to checking in, users can also vote for the charity of their choice at computer kiosks on the golf course. Consumers can pick from nearly 50 local and national children’s organizations.

At the end of the tournament, the charity with the most votes will receive a $100,000 donation.

“In addition to connecting through various social media channels, Facebook Places and foursquare is a way for attendees to interact with Wyndham Worldwide, Wyndham Championship and one another while on the course,” Ms. Johnson said

“We are also able to provide the fans with exclusive deals and extend our charitable giving program through these apps,” she said.

Mobile causes
Wyndham Worldwide is using mobile in an innovative way to keep its consumers in the know while traveling.

“Whether it’s through mobile-friendly Web sites or mobile applications, Wyndham Worldwide strives to provide its consumers with the best online experience,” Ms. Johnson said.

“In the past year we have highlighted special offers, multiple campaigns and great content on vacation destinations and properties,” she said.

Final Take
Lauren Johnson is editorial assistant on Mobile Commerce Daily, New York