My Global Playground

Headquartered in Belmont, California, My Global Playground brought a newfound focus on philanthropy and financial disclosure that hadn't been seen in the destination club industry when they were founded in 2005.

Outlined in the club's membership documents were strict commitments about how My Global Playground would use membership deposits and annual dues and the financial status of the club. Annually a reputable accounting firm would conduct an audit to verify the club's commitment to the terms in the membership agreement.

"We have an open door policy at MGP," wrote the club's President and CEO Joyce Kohn. "We welcome questions about the club, it's financial structure and our long term goals. On a personal note, we have, from the beginning, launched this company with the truest belief of giving back. We are very committed to our alliances with charitable foundations and it is of great pride that we will be involved in some of the world's most important causes both financially and emotionally."

In addition to Kohn, the club was also co-founded by Christine Frost, a veteran in the destination club industry who had served at Private Retreats, widely considered the first true destination club, and was with the club as they transitioned to become Abercrombie & Kent Destinations and ultimately to Tanner & Haley Destination Club, where she served on the club's executive team.

My Global Playground created two different philanthropic programs; the My Global Playground Rising Star and the My Global Playground 3 Wishes, both apparently focused on providing support to young children. Members were encouraged to refer applicants to the program.

According to the club's website, "we believe that we have priced our business model to guard against economic or market conditions without compromising any club service or asset."

Unfortunately, the one market condition the model could not account for was a lack of sufficient interest. With others in the destination club space already having established models and a full portfolio of properties available to members, My Global Playground was unable to adequately generate enough interest and new membership sales to survive the highly competitive destination club space. Late in 2007, the club quietly faded away, apparently with only a handful of members.

To learn more about My Global Playground, please visit the club's quick links found to the right or request a free copy of our Destination Club Guide.

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