Frequently Asked Questions About Good Samaritan Institute

Good Samaritan Institute (GSI) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit AI technology hub located in Santa Rosa Beach, Florida. We develop open-source AI tools and provide education, consulting, and technical solutions for environmental monitoring, civic governance, and workforce training. With a 60-unit residential campus, 7,000 sq ft office space, and 5,000 sq ft pavilion, GSI serves as a hub for innovation and community impact in the Gulf Coast region and beyond.

Yes, Good Samaritan Institute is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Our EIN is 51-0438915. As a nonprofit, we are committed to providing community benefit and reinvesting all revenues back into our mission of advancing AI education, environmental monitoring, civic technology, and workforce development.

Good Samaritan Institute was founded in 2002 by Douglas Liles. The institute began with the GOBsoft Think-Fast patent technology, an innovation enabling asynchronous communication between cancer biologists and oncologists. Over the past two decades, GSI has evolved from a specialized research platform to a comprehensive AI technology hub serving multiple sectors.

Good Samaritan Institute is located at 900 N County Highway 393, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459. Our campus features 60 residential units, a 7,000 sq ft office space, and a 5,000 sq ft pavilion, providing a unique environment for innovation, collaboration, and creative work on the Florida Gulf Coast.

Good Samaritan Institute is led by Douglas Liles, the founder and Executive Director. Douglas is an author, innovator, and advocate for ethical AI in community development. He hosts a podcast exploring AI and community topics and is deeply committed to GSI's mission of advancing applied AI solutions for social and environmental benefit.

GSI offers a diverse range of programs including: Adopt a Scientist, AI VoTech Pathway, TAPS, EcoGuardian AI, TownOracle AI, Point Preserve, Good Combinator, Escape to Create, AiCoop AI, and GPT Internship. Each program is designed to address different community needs, from workforce development to environmental monitoring. Learn more about all our programs.

The Adopt a Scientist program connects students and community members with active scientists and researchers, providing mentorship and real-world exposure to scientific research and innovation. This program bridges the gap between academic research and community engagement, fostering the next generation of science-minded professionals.

The AI VoTech Pathway is a partnership between GSI and Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) that provides accessible, career-focused training in artificial intelligence and related technologies. The program is designed for students seeking vocational pathways into AI careers without requiring a traditional four-year degree. Students gain practical skills through hands-on projects, industry partnerships, and real-world applications.

TAPS is one of GSI's specialized programs designed to advance technical and professional skills in AI and related domains. While specific details vary, TAPS generally focuses on providing targeted training, mentorship, and project-based learning for participants seeking to develop expertise in applied AI solutions.

EcoGuardian AI is GSI's environmental monitoring program that leverages artificial intelligence to track, analyze, and protect ecological systems. Using AI-powered tools and open-source models, EcoGuardian AI helps communities monitor environmental health, detect changes in ecosystems, and make data-driven decisions for conservation and sustainability.

TownOracle AI is GSI's civic governance platform that applies artificial intelligence to community decision-making and municipal planning. The platform helps cities and towns analyze data, forecast outcomes, and make informed policy decisions for community benefit. It exemplifies GSI's commitment to using AI as a tool for democratic participation and good governance.

We welcome passionate individuals interested in contributing to our mission. To learn about current volunteer and internship opportunities, please visit our Programs page or contact us directly at doug@goodsamaritaninstitute.org. We offer positions across our various programs including the GPT Internship, Escape to Create, and technical project work.

The AI VoTech Pathway is offered in partnership with Northwest Florida State College. To apply, visit NWFSC's website or contact GSI directly at doug@goodsamaritaninstitute.org for application details, program requirements, and enrollment information. Our team can guide you through the application process and answer any questions about program content and career outcomes.

As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, donations to GSI are tax-deductible. We welcome financial contributions that support our programs, campus development, and mission-driven work. For donation information and to discuss giving opportunities, please contact us at doug@goodsamaritaninstitute.org or visit our Investors page to learn about partnership and funding options.

Yes, GSI welcomes partnerships with businesses, organizations, and institutions aligned with our mission. We offer consulting services, technical solutions, and collaborative project opportunities. Corporate partners benefit from access to our expertise, talent network, and innovative AI solutions. To explore partnership possibilities, please contact us at doug@goodsamaritaninstitute.org or visit our Services page.

GSI offers comprehensive AI consulting, business services, and technical solutions tailored to organizational needs. Our services include AI strategy development, model training and deployment, environmental monitoring solutions, civic tech applications, and workforce training programs. We work with nonprofits, government agencies, educational institutions, and businesses. Learn more on our Services page.

GSI's services are available to a wide range of clients including nonprofit organizations, government agencies, educational institutions, businesses, and community organizations. As a nonprofit ourselves, we maintain a special commitment to serving other nonprofits and community-focused organizations. Contact us to discuss your specific needs and how GSI can help.