Bonjour! We are Clementine and Mori, two recent U.S. immigrants looking for a fixer-upper property in rural southern France to create a “summer camp” resort for adults. Our vision is to provide year-round opportunities to build community and explore creative activities just like at summer camp! We are committed to creating a safe and welcoming space for LGBTQIA+ people.
As members of the queer community ourselves, creating a positive gathering space for LGBTQIA+ people and allies is near and dear to our hearts. We left the United States in October 2024, after experiencing a homophobic physical attack and fearing that the hatred towards queer and trans people would only get worse after the presidential election.
Both of us have loved our summer camp experiences as campers and counselors, and we are excited to share our passion for all sorts of activities such as crafting, team-building, hiking, swimming, bonfire singing, and variety shows.
In our property search, the locations that meet our size criteria for the building (enough bedrooms and large gathering spaces) and acreage (for outdoor activities) put us above budget. That’s why we’re asking for help to purchase the property and start renovations.
Using Mori’s skills from a photojournalism degree and work experience, we plan to make weekly YouTube videos to monetize and fund the renovation process, and so you can follow our journey.
We are excited to take on this new adventure with your support! Our varied life experiences have given us lots of skills that we bring to this project.
Community plays an important role in Clementine’s life. She attended Quaker weekend retreats and summer camp as a youth where she later became a counselor. She lived in cooperative housing for six years and worked as a manager in one of those houses for three years. She has led workshops for adults and youth. Clementine taught (or “guided,” as Montessori schools call it) preschoolers and toddlers for ten years. She loves fostering inclusive, joyful spaces for authentic connection.
Mori grew up on a farm, mastering skills in woodworking/construction, animal husbandry, horseback riding, and gardening. As a camp counselor, Mori taught survival skills, woodworking, navigation, and team building exercises. Repurposing discarded furniture and other items is another one of Mori’s relevant talents.
Thank you for giving whatever amount you feel inspired to donate. In addition to giving, sharing this fundraiser with your larger networks is one of the best ways to help us out. We greatly appreciate your contribution and hope to see you soon in southern France!
If you’re donating from outside the European Union, be aware that the amount of Euros you donate will be slightly different from your own currency. Thankfully, GoFundMe does not charge conversion fees: