Many of you will remember one of our favorite conferencistas, Elmer Rodriguez, as the one who shared his stories about growing up in El Salvador and then immigrating to Costa Rica where he has been providing free drawing classes to disadvantaged kids in his marginal neighborhood. Despite the difficulties he has faced in life, he always manages to see the potential and beauty in all those around him, and he uses his vision to create paintings and poetry for others to enjoy.

Unfortunately, Elmer and his family are facing more challenges. His health is deteriorating due to a heart condition, and he's unable to make a living selling his art because COVID has eviscerated the tourism industry in Costa Rica. This combination of circumstances leaves them with no choice but to leave San Jose (where he was renting a house) and live on a small plot of land where they have a shack made of tin and plastic, without running water.

We are hoping to raise funds so he can buy building supplies to improve the living conditions of their "rancho" so that he and his family can live there more safely. Anything you can give is helpful. He and his family will appreciate it!