Queer Soul Academy
a dedicated safe space for the LGBTQ+ community
✩
a dedicated safe space for the LGBTQ+ community ✩
Our Vision
The Queer Soul Academy is, first and foremost, a dedicated safe space for members of marginalized communities.
We are a 501(c)(3) Nonprofit Spiritual Organization that promotes Yoga, Holistic Wellness, and Permaculture, and creates a dedicated safe space for the LGBTQIA+ Community in Northeast Ohio. The organization is committed to creating a safe, affirming, and educational space built on personal empowerment, community healing, and environmental stewardship. Our goal is to offer members of our community a safe sanctuary and inclusive environment for work-trade opportunities and lifestyle enrichment.
We plan to invest in land in Northeast Ohio and create a transformative sanctuary where Yoga retreats, holistic wellness education, and permaculture gardens come together to cultivate community around growth and healing. Through mindfulness practices and environmental stewardship, the Queer Soul Academy will support individuals from all walks of life in embracing their authentic selves and nurturing their bodies, minds, and spirits — in harmony with the Earth.
Core Values
Gratitude - for the blessings as well as the opportunities to grow.
Ahimsa (Non-violence) - we are ethically rooted in Yoga Philosophy.
Community - the beating heart at the center of all that we do!
Integrity - showing up steadily with commitment to our mission.
Authenticity - radical honesty and transparency is our style.
Sanctuary - we offer a safe haven for all humans, animals, + plants.
[GrACIAS] - to give thanks, grateful, gratitude
Core Mission Pillars
Inclusivity + Dedicated Safe Space: QSA will be a sanctuary for LGBTQIA+ individuals and other marginalized individuals who are seeking spiritual healing, community connection, and healthy support.
Uplifting Humanity: QSA recognizes that there is no personal transformation without collective liberation. Self-healing does not happen in a vacuum, but rather in an interdependent process with the Earth and the Collective.
Ecological Integration: QSA’s approach blends practical wisdom from Yoga and Ayurveda with permaculture philosophy to create a balanced ecosystem and retreat that is nourishing for humans, plants, and animals alike.
Education + Empowerment: QSA’s goal is to provide accessible resources and educational programs to nurture the community’s personal growth and spiritual practices. We prioritize and uplift the voices of the marginalized.
Fundraising Goals:
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For property acquisition, legal fees, and accounting. To cover initial organizational expenses including incorporation, legal, and accounting fees, as well as establish a fund for the property down payment. We will be able to secure 15–30 acres in Northeast Ohio for the Academy’s permanent home, and cover land surveying, inspections, and closing costs. Ideally, the property will include existing structures suitable for restoration and expansion into retreat spaces.
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For sustainable infrastructure + retreat facilities. To implement eco-conscious infrastructure such as composting toilets, solar power, geodesic dome lodging, and permaculture food forests. These upgrades will align our operations with sustainable and regenerative principles and provide us with accommodations for guests!
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For staff pay, growth, scholarships + contingency fund. For further investments in animal care, land and facility enrichment, insurance, and emergency reserves. Any remaining funds will contribute to a Community Scholarship Fund, making Queer Soul Academy programs accessible to LGBTQIA+ individuals with limited financial resources.
Help us make this REAL!
Meet Our Team
Board Chair + Executive Director: Lee Devi (they/ them)
When I was growing up, I didn’t have any LGBTQ+ role models, and I didn’t know it was okay to be myself. Through over a decade of Yoga practice, deep spiritual study, and living a Yogic lifestyle, I continue to unravel layer after layer of subconscious conditioning and illusions. And somewhere along the way, I decided to become the role model of my own dreams. Today, I’m out and proud as a queer and nonbinary human who uses they/ them pronouns.
I’m also a Yoga Instructor, Ayurvedic Health Counselor, Transformational Retreat Facilitator, Intuitive Astrologer, and Podcaster. I am a devotee of the Divine within all beings, and aim to be of service to the Earth and all her creatures.
My sankalpa, or intention, for the Queer Soul Academy is to create a dedicated safe space for the LGBTQIA+ community and all humankind. As well as offer a space of learning for all to share information and uplift humanity.
Director of Maintenance + Animal Welfare: Stormi Beers (she/ they)
Born and raised here in Ohio. I’ve grown up surrounded by animals of all shapes and sizes, which has given me a deep passion for not only caring for them but also helping people. I’ve spent much of my career working in the manufacturing industry, operating heavy equipment and taking on maintenance roles. I plan to bring that experience to help maintain and care for the grounds, ensuring everything runs smoothly and safely. Along with my hands-on background, I hope to use my knowledge and love for animals to make sure they receive proper care and to help educate others on their needs. My goal is to help create a space where everyone can gather, connect, and feel free to be themselves without fear or worry of judgment.
Secretary + Treasurer: Paige Altemare (she/ they)
A native Clevelander, I've earned a degree in Chemical Engineering from CWRU, and have worked in manufacturing, project management, web development, data analysis, and finance. Alongside my professional experience, I've been a yogi for over a decade, a lifelong environmentalist, and world traveler inspired by diverse cultures and new ideas. As a queer person and dedicated activist, I hope to create inclusive spaces rooted in connection, equity, and collective liberation. In my role as Treasurer and Secretary, I bring a blend of organizational skills, thoughtful strategy, and creative problem solving, fueled by my passion for holistic wellness, sustainability, and uplifting others.
CONTACT US
queersoulacademy@gmail.com
Northeast Ohio, USA
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