Through guiding in North and Central America, Africa, South America and the Himalayas, and witnessing the poverty and scarce resources in those very communities who graciously welcomed them, Dean Cardinale made a commitment to include humanitarian efforts as a component of all future expeditions. While pursuing a seven summits bid, this commitment led to the formation of HOP (Human Outreach Project), a non-profit charitable organization (501c3).

To carry out its mission, HOP relies on contributions of many kinds. Financial contributions are used to purchase and transport supplies, and support long-term infrastructure projects focused on the health, development, and education of orphaned children. Volunteer trekkers who are visiting these regions backpack the items to remote locations for distribution. HOP coordinates the purchase, transportation and delivery of items ranging from dental hygiene kits and recreational equipment for orphaned children living in remote Himalayan regions of Mount Everest, to school and health supplies for the Kilimanjaro Children’s Orphanage.

HOP's most ambitious long-term commitment is the development of a sister organization, HOP-Tanzania. Conceptualized in partnership with local community, land was purchased with funding from HOP in early 2010, and during this year's student leadership program, ground was broken for a new orphanage - Kilimanjaro Kids Community.