We currently live and work in Fort Myers, an area greatly impacted by Hurricane Ian. Most restaurants, shops, gyms, marinas, parks, camping sites, and beaches are back open, which provides ample opportunity for staff and volunteers to enjoy being off-base and to get to know the local community.
There are stores like Walmart, Target, Goodwill, CVS, Walgreens, Costco, thrift shops, etc. where you can get anything you need while volunteering. Long-term volunteers may also receive packages to a PO box but there is no guarantee of being able to retrieve it right away.
On the weekends, volunteers and staff can branch off to various beaches, nature walks, and downtown events like food truck tastings. Manatee Park is just a short drive away, but the manatees are only visible during the winter months. Many businesses offer kayak rentals, boat tours, and private charters in the area.
The Fort Myers River District/Historic Downtown area has various shops and restaurants as well as a vibrant nightlife. Fleamasters Fleamarket, a festive atmosphere filled with bargain booths and small owner-operated shops is also a short drive away.
For those who love nature, the Everglades National Park is a world-class destination that is only a 2-hour drive from our current base. It's home to hundreds of animal species and boasts some of the most beautiful wetlands in the world.
If you don't mind a bit of traveling, downtown Miami or Tampa can be reached in about 3 hours via the Flix Bus system.
*Volunteers are not permitted to go more than a one (1) hour drive away from base with All Hands Vehicle.*
During the summer months, the weather in Ft. Myers can be hot, humid, and rainy. June- November is considered Hurricane Season, and the peak is mid-August through mid-October. You can check the weather forecast here.