John Baisden Jr | Founder | Turning Winds | Learn More                   

Turning Winds' commitment to nurturing mental health and personal growth among adolescents is exemplified by our international service trips twice a year. Following a successful excursion to Morocco last spring, our most recent venture in Belize once again highlighted the transformative potential of these experiences. 

The purpose of our service trips is to foster leadership, resilience, and a profound sense of global citizenship. By immersing our teens in diverse cultural settings, these trips cultivate empathy and broaden personal perspectives through direct community engagement.

During our time in Belize, we encountered an unexpected language barrier, with many locals speaking only Belizean Creole instead of English—the country’s official language. This did not deter our efforts; instead, it enriched our interactions. "Not everyone in the rural village we visited spoke English," Chief Operations Officer Carl Baisden recounts. "But we didn’t let that language barrier slow us down... The kids all connected beautifully."

This connection transcended verbal communication, fostering relationships through "smiles and body language," illustrating the universal capacity for empathy and understanding.The impact of these encounters was profound, with Baisden noting, "It always amazes me what powerful bonds we can make with other people—even without words."

Beyond cultural exchange, the service aspect of the trip provided eye-opening insights into global socioeconomic disparities. "They all felt the poverty they encountered in Belize," Baisden observes, highlighting the stark contrast between the teens' expectations and the realities of life in underprivileged areas. This experience was pivotal, challenging perceptions of happiness and material wealth and emphasizing the value of fulfillment beyond financial status.

Our activities in Belize included educational excursions, such as visiting Mayan ruins and participating in traditional chocolate-making, further immersing our teens in the rich tapestry of the country's history and culture. However, adaptable service turned out to be crucial; when plans to build a playground were thwarted by bad weather, our group pivoted to refurbishing a classroom, leaving a lasting legacy of their visit. 

"These service trips underscore the therapeutic value of cultural immersion," Baisden concludes, affirming the significance of such experiences in the personal development of our teens. 

At Turning Winds, we believe in the power of service and cultural immersion as catalysts for personal growth, resilience, and global awareness. Our program continues to evolve, reflecting our dedication to providing meaningful, life-changing experiences for the adolescents in our care.

Turning Winds is an out-of-network treatment provider accepting most major insurance plans.  Verify your insurance benefits today.  For more information on how we can help your child, Contact us online for more information or call us at 800-845-1380. If your call isn’t answered personally, one of us, will get back to you as soon as possible.