Podcast: Play in new window | Download | Embed
Subscribe: Spotify | TuneIn | RSS
Welcome to this special edition of The Workamper Show. Today we’re participating in a truly unique event called Podcasthon 2025.
This global initiative brings together podcasters from around the world. Each one of them dedicates an episode to shine a light on charitable organizations making a difference.
The goal is to amplify the voices of non-profits, share their challenges and triumphs and inspire listeners to get involved. People can help with their donations, by volunteering, or simply spreading the word.
For today’s episode, I’m honored to feature two remarkable Workamper employers who operate non-profit organizations. Each has a unique mission, but a common thread to help people reconnect with nature, community and purpose.
First, we’ll be speaking with Lynne Swanson, a retired veterinarian and the director of Safe Harbor Farm. It is a beautiful 61-acre nature sanctuary in coastal North Carolina.
What started as an animal shelter has evolved into a peaceful retreat for humans and wildlife. Today the farm is serves as a sanctuary for turtles, honeybees and other critters.
Through its GiveSmiles.org website, Lynne also provides tips on how dog owners can better communicate with their pets.
From training beekeepers to maintaining nature trails and operating a private dog park, Safe Harbor Farm is a testament to the power of perseverance, volunteerism and the love of the land.
Developing the property for outdoor recreation has been a passion of Lynne’s for many years.
We will jump right into my conversation with Lynne Swanson, the director of Safe Harbor Farm, to hear more work being done not just for animals, but also for the environment and volunteers who give their time to help.
If you’re passionate about nature, turtles, honeybees or just finding a peaceful escape, I encourage you to check out their work by visiting www.safeharborfarm.org.
Next, we shift gears and head to the shores of Lake Huron in Michigan, where Bay Shore Family Camp and Ministry has been serving families and faith-based communities for more than a century.
Since 1911, Bay Shore has been a destination for children and families – whether as individuals or small groups – to unplug, reconnect and grow in faith.
With year-round retreats, a youth summer camp, and an upcoming Family Adventure Park, Bay Shore Family Camp provides a welcoming space where individuals and families can bond through shared experiences.
To tell us more, I spoke with Jeff Parsons, the camp’s director, about its history, mission and exciting new plans for the future.
Bay Shore Family Camp and Ministry has been a cornerstone of faith-based retreats and family camps in Michigan for over a century.
Located on the shores of Lake Huron in the ‘thumb’ region of the state, the camp offers a picturesque and peaceful retreat for families, youth groups and church organizations.
While the camp dates back to 1911, its facilities have evolved to include modern accommodations, a variety of recreational activities, and year-round programming.
Jeff Parsons described how the summer months are dedicated to youth camps and family retreats, while the rest of the year focuses on adult retreats and faith-based events.
The camp serves approximately 20,000 guests annually, offering a blend of traditional camping experiences and contemporary lodging.
One of Bay Shore’s most exciting new ventures is the Faith Quest Family Adventure Park, located on a recently acquired 107-acre property with a 20-acre lake. Slated to open in May, the adventure park is designed to give families a chance to experience classic summer camp activities together from canoeing and archery, to climbing walls and inflatables.
Jeff emphasized that Bay Shore relies heavily on volunteers and donor support to keep its programs affordable. While registration fees cover some expenses, charitable donations help ensure that no family is turned away due to financial hardship.
For more information about Bay Shore Family Camp and the new adventure park, visit bayshorecamp.org.
Wow, what an inspiring journey today! We’ve explored two incredible places where people are making a difference whether it’s through nurturing honeybee populations at Safe Harbor Farm or creating life-changing family experiences at Bay Shore Family Camp.
These non-profits are more than just locations — they are communities of hope, healing and connection. And that’s exactly what Podcasthon is all about: using the power of storytelling to showcase organizations that are changing lives, one person at a time.
If today’s episode resonated with you, consider getting involved. Whether it’s through volunteering, donating, or simply sharing the stories of these incredible organizations, every action helps sustain these missions.
Since The Workamper Show is devoted to helping match Workampers with great opportunities, both Safe Harbor Farm and Bay Shore Family Camp rely on volunteers to sustain their missions.
To learn more about Safe Harbor Farm, visit safeharborfarm.org. For information about Bay Shore Family Camp, go to bayshorecamp.org.
To learn about the work of hundreds of other non-profit organizations, check out the other shows participating in Podcasthon 2025 at www.podcasthon.org.
Thank you for joining me for this special Podcasthon episode of The Workamper Show. Next time, I will be speaking with a Workamping couple about their life on the road. Until then, keep exploring, keep giving and keep making a difference!
