By Susan Koenig
On the first Sunday of each month, Soothe Our Souls (SOS) – a non-profit 501(c)(3) volunteer organization – provides complimentary sailing excursions for seriously health-challenged people and their caregivers. Sailing out of St. Pete Beach’s Dolphin Landings Charter Boat Center, SOS is committed to helping their guests navigate the journey back to wellness in peaceful, serene settings.
Dolphin Landing’s President Captain Dan Peretz is a Florida native and is the brainchild of this effort, aided by young cancer survivor Suyin Cheam and a host of steadfast volunteers. Dan began chartering yachts in 1972, and since 1986 he has owned and managed Dolphin Landings. He created Soothe Our Souls in 2012 in honor of his close friend Art who was suffering from cancer.
“He would sail on our boat for Sunday family excursions, and it was a precious and therapeutic time,” says Peretz. “Only twice in 11 years did weather interfere with a sail. Every passenger gets to steer the boat, while mini-yoga, meditation and nutrition workshops are offered during the cruise.”
Knowing that some people might be hesitant to take a cruise, Peretz and his team thought about a land-based venue that would provide a similar soul-soothing experience. In 2016, Peretz’s pal Terry Porter noticed that the Boca Ciega Sail and Power Squadron building was for sale. Built in 1930, it was once the Treasure Island Fire House. Terry and Dan raised the money to buy and renovate the building and turn it into a Wellness Center as part of SOS. The Treasure Island Waterfront Event Venue is accessible by land or sea and offers wellness classes and social events, has a kitchen and dance floor and is available for rent. Located at 130 126th Avenue East, Treasure Island. www.tiwaterfrontvenue.org
Currently SOS is looking for volunteers and grant writers so more programs can be added and hosts two major fundraisers in May and November.
www.SootheourSouls.org
outreach@SootheourSouls.org
727.360.7411
info@dolphinlandings.com