To move from surviving to thriving as a critical social experience and change is the mission of The Mobile Thriving Respite, which began in 2019 by playing films for the street community and homeless at the Smithfield Street winter shelter. The thriving respite is staffed by Point Park University undergraduate and graduate students trained in community psychology. Because of the pandemic, the group has had to shift and instead work on “pop up” outdoor events throughout the city. Because the thriving respite is cooperative and participatory, street community members help choose and set up for events.

The thriving respite is designed to recognize and affirm the assets people have, and to offer cultural, educational, and psychological resources. The respite regularly offers opportunities to relax and de-stress, enjoy culture and education, play games, and to access one’s creativity and dignity.