About

In 2013, Clarissa Winchester , a dedicated homeschooling mom from the Birmingham, AL area, embarked on a mission to create a field trip resource for homeschoolers: Field Trips R Us Homeschooling (FTRU). Her initiative quickly gained popularity, providing equal access to travel opportunities for homeschooling families, regardless of their background or circumstances. With a unique first-come, first-served model, FTRU made it possible for families to explore enriching experiences together. The organization soon caught the attention of local media, showcasing the growing need for community-driven educational adventures. By 2016, FTRU had successfully organized hundreds of domestic and international trips. Recognizing the potential to expand her impact, Clarissa transitioned into a credentialed Travel Advisor booking travel for individuals and other groups. Her new role allowed her to professionally advocate for homeschoolers, individuals, and families with special needs who wished to travel, creating inclusive environments for all participants. As Clarissa's children progressed through their college years, she embraced a new challenge: responding to her community's request for broader travel initiatives. This led to the formation of " TravelwithClarissa ," encompassing the original field trip service and the newly established Trussville Travel Club (TTC). The TTC emerged as a response to local interest in leveraging Clarissa's industry experience, guiding the community on various hosted trips. The TTC was founded in 2022 and their inaugural trip was to Alaska in 2023. Clarissa's travel expertise stems from her diverse background. Originally from Huntsville, Alabama, she grew up in a multicultural household, which fueled her passion for exploration. Some of her fondest childhood memories include flying to Yucatán to visit her grandparents. Her professional journey also includes working as a Cast Member at Walt Disney World Resort and studying Public Relations at Auburn University. In 2019, Clarissa joined Cruise Planners as an advisor, and in 2020, during the global shutdown, she took a significant step forward by purchasing her own franchise. While there are multiple Cruise Planners Franchises in the Trussville & Birmingham areas, FTRU and the TTC are an exclusive extension of the Clarissa Winchester, specific franchise. Confident in the resurgence of travel, she passionately maintained that the community's desire for fellowship and exploration would rekindle. Today, Clarissa not only hosts group travel, but she also acts as a speaker on topics including homeschooling, travel, and volunteerism. Clarissa is available for booking at trussvilletravelclub@gmail.com or by calling 205-873-8621 . Clarissa continues to inspire and empower through travel , fostering a sense of community while creating unforgettable experiences for all who seek to explore the world. "Travel accountability is why we do what we do", Winchester stated. " We help make the Bucket List the To-Do List! " 