For freelancers, entrepreneurs, and overworked employees, taking time off often feels impossible. No PTO, no safety net, no real pause. But this Mental Health Awareness Month, we’re changing that. Off Worque is raising $100K for The Out of Office Fund, a micro-grant initiative that ensures workers— especially those without traditional paid time off—can afford to step away, unplug, and return refreshed.

Because let’s be real— vacations, mental health days, or even taking a damn break aren’t accessible for everyone. And even when PTO is offered? Most people are too overworked, under-resourced, or scared to use it.

We’re changing that.

The Goal

We’re awarding 5 recipients per quarter a $2,500 grant— enough to fund 5 fully paid days off ($500/day). No guilt. No questions asked. Just rest.

$65 funds one hour of rest
$250 covers a half day
$500 gives someone a full day off
$2,500 fully funds a #WorqueFreeWeek

Why This Matters

The U.S. is the only industrialized nation with no federally mandated PTO.
Freelancers and gig workers? Zero built-in rest days.
Women and Black workers are less likely to take time off, even when it’s available, out of fear of repercussions.
77% of employees have experienced burnout— but most don’t have the resources or support to recover.

The Impact:

Your donation helps someone:

Step away from their inbox and into stillness.
Show up for therapy without worrying about missing work.
Spend time with their kids, take a solo trip, or finally breathe without a deadline hanging over them.
Return recharged and rooted— in their purpose, not just their profession.

Want to Do More?

Join the movement: Take your own #WorqueFreeDay and share it on social.
Sponsor a full grant as an individual or brand.
Share this page with your network.

Donate now. Let’s make rest accessible for all.

About Cristina

Cristina Jerome, the founder of Off Worque, knows firsthand the pressures of being a creative professional in a world that often values productivity over well-being. After a successful corporate career that led to burnout, Cristina left her job to focus on her mental health and find balance in life outside of work. She now advocates for a lifestyle that encourages rest and rejuvenation for all, but especially for those who don't have the luxury of traditional PTO benefits.

Freelancers, entrepreneurs, and employees with limited PTO face additional barriers to taking necessary time off. With the Off Worque PTO Micro Grants, we want to provide support and encourage a healthier work/life balance, no questions asked.

Time request granted.

About off worque:

Off Worque is a movement, a mindset, and a necessary rebellion against hustle culture. Founded by Cristina Jerome, Off Worque exists to remind people that we are more than our job titles—we are whole, complex beings who deserve to rest, unplug, and find meaning beyond the grind. Off Worque is here to hold space for community, rest and play— and for us that means, encouraging you to take time off without guilt, connecting you to community and helping you find joy in hobbies that have nothing to do with productivity. Its all play and no worque for us because at the end of the day, you are not your job.

You deserve to step off worque— as needed, when needed, no questions asked.

The Out of Office Fund

This May, Off Worque Is Out of Office and we’re inviting you to help fund the rest someone else desperately needs.