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Immerse yourself in the cultural richness of the Southern United States in Clearwater, Florida, USA

Availability

  2025 

 Min stay requested: at least 3 weeks

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Details

  • Description

    Description

    Hi there! I'm a 31-year-old Canadian female living in the sunny paradise of Clearwater, Florida.

    As a psychologist, I travel across the US, but my heart belongs to the work we do here and in Bay St. Louis, near the electrifying city of New Orleans.

    My colleague, my mother, and I have formed a nonprofit is dedicated to prison reform, youth mentoring, assisting families in need, and supporting a community house. We also extend our compassion to veterans by providing essential mental health support.

    My mission as a WorkAway Host is to offer a rich cultural exchange, enlightening people from around the world about the intricacies of poverty and mental health within the American healthcare and justice systems.

    I also have a deep love for animals! Although my beloved 16-year-old chihuahua, Snickers, has passed away (you'll see many pictures of him on my page!), I now have a lively Pomeranian puppy who keeps me on my toes. He loves running around the dog park and has boundless energy! We just introduced a second adopted doggie into our home - Yak - a 5 lb chihuahua who came from an abusive situation. I also enjoy caring for neighborhood cats and dogs in my free time.

  • Types of help and learning opportunities

    Types of help and learning opportunities

    Charity Work
    Language practice
    Teaching
    Gardening
    DIY and building projects
    Animal Care
    Creating/ Cooking family meals
    Help around the house
    Help with Computers/ Internet
  • UN sustainability goals this host is trying to achieve

    UN sustainability goals this host is trying to achieve

    UN goals
    No poverty
    Zero hunger
    Good health and well-being
    Quality education
    Gender equality
    Clean water and sanitation
    Affordable and clean energy
    Decent work and economic growth
    Industries, innovation and infrastructure
    Reduce inequality
    Sustainable cities and communities
    Responsible consumption and production
    Climate action
    Life below water
    Life on land
    Peace, justice and strong institutions
    Partnerships for the goals
  • Cultural exchange and learning opportunities

    Cultural exchange and learning opportunities

    Immerse yourself in the cultural richness of the Southern United States. Our work with struggling individuals and veterans offers a unique opportunity to gain a profound understanding of American culture and societal issues. You'll be part of a family dedicated to making a difference, where every day brings new experiences and insights.

    We love taking WorkAwayers on adventures to explore trendy spots and experience the best of American culture. Imagine strolling through the lively streets of New Orleans, where the air is filled with the sounds of jazz, the aroma of delicious cuisine, and the vibrant energy of a city rich in history and culture.

    Your journey with us will be both impactful and unforgettable. You'll have the chance to engage deeply with the local community, contribute to meaningful projects, and create lasting memories.

    We can't wait to welcome you and embark on this exciting and meaningful journey together! Join us, and let's make a difference while experiencing the beauty and diversity of American culture.

  • Projects involving children

    Projects involving children

    This project could involve children. For more information see our guidelines and tips here.

  • Help

    Help

    Join us in our dynamic nonprofit efforts and make a real difference!

    OUR COMMUNITY HOME:
    Our home just recently opened and is still in the beginning stages of growth. Our goal is to create a sanctuary nestled just 45 minutes from the heart of New Orleans. Here, we wish to cultivate a nonjudgmental space where individuals from diverse backgrounds come together. Our home aims to be a tapestry of laughter, fun, and serious dedication to transformative projects like prison reform, veteran support, and mental health advocacy. I emphasize the importance of meditating together, finding peace and clarity in shared stillness, reinforcing our belief that together is better. It doesn't matter where you came from or what you've been through, you are welcome in our home!

    We are seeking enthusiastic WorkAwayers to join our community and assist with a variety of impactful tasks, including:
    * Youth mentoring
    * Supporting individuals and families grappling with incarceration
    * Assisting with cognitive assessments
    * Providing support to veterans
    * Caring for my energetic Pomeranian puppy
    * Pet sitting for neighborhood dogs and cats
    * DIY projects for our community house
    * Promoting our cause through social media and marketing

    Let us know your preferences, and we'll tailor the experience to your strengths and interests!

    What We Offer:
    * A comfortable bedroom and bathroom shared with other passionate WorkAwayers
    * Groceries and some meals in the house
    * Deep insights into the American justice and mental health systems
    * Professional development opportunities for students in psychology, law, or criminal justice

    We're looking for individuals who are:
    * Able to stay at least 3 weeks
    * Open-minded and LGBTQ+ affirmative
    * Enthusiastic and empathetic
    * Passionate about social justice and helping others
    * Interested in psychology and social justice
    * Dog lovers
    * Eager to explore and experience new cultures

    We're open to accepting families, pets, and couples.

    Our work is rooted in nonprofit efforts, and we rely heavily on the dedication and passion of our volunteers to sustain our mission. We do operate on a limited budget and, unfortunately, cannot afford to pay for everyone's expenses or offer financial compensation. While I provide food in the house to ensure that basic needs are met, any additional outings, such as dining out, will need to be covered by the WorkAwayers themselves.

  • Languages

    Languages spoken
    English: Fluent
    Spanish: Beginner

    This host offers a language exchange
    This host has indicated that they are interested in sharing their own language or learning a new language.
    You can contact them directly for more information.

  • Accommodation

    Accommodation

    In Bay St. Louis, outside of New Orleans, you'll share a home with other volunteers and re-entry residents, creating a close-knit and supportive community. While amenities aren't as close by, you'll find solace in the beautiful beach just 12 minutes away, perfect for relaxation and reflection. You'll also have access to a car most of the time, making it easier to explore the local area and engage in various activities. Our community home is a place where you can truly make a difference, whether it's through supporting individuals affected by incarceration, assisting with assessments, providing support to veterans, pet sitting, or undertaking DIY projects to enhance our living space.

    While I provide food in the house to ensure that basic needs are met, any additional outings, such as dining out, will need to be covered by the WorkAwayers themselves.

    Feel free to enjoy snacks in the house and cook your own meals. I work full-time on top of organizing this non-profit and do not have as much free time as I would like (I'm still learning how to take a break LOL). During the week, I'm usually working from 7 AM - 7 PM, Monday to Thursday, so I can only guarantee to be present for dinner. I'll also provide some groceries so you can stock up on your favorite foods.

  • What else ...

    What else ...

    ARRIVING TO MY PLACE:
    * I can pick you up from MSY (New Orleans), GPT (Gulfport/Biloxi), Clearwater/St Pete (PIE), or Sarasota (SRQ) - depending on the dates of your arrival.

  • A little more information

    A little more information

    • Internet access

    • Limited internet access

      Limited internet access

    • We have pets

    • We are smokers

    • Can host families

  • Can host digital nomads

    Can host digital nomads

    Yes, we have stable wifi!

  • Can possibly accept pets

    Can possibly accept pets

    I will accept small pets!

  • How many Workawayers can stay?

    How many Workawayers can stay?

    More than two

Host ref number: 899676633818

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Photos

The image shows two small dogs sitting in a leopard-print pet stroller with a black mesh top, on a white tiled floor in a room with a clothing rack.
The image depicts a group of five women and a child gathered around a table laden with food and drinks, set against a festive holiday backdrop.

Feedback

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Accuracy of profile:
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Cultural exchange:
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