In 2020, I began dreaming of owning a small piece of land—not just for myself, but as a place to grow food, raise my future children, and one day offer healing retreats in nature. At the time, I had only $50 to my name. But with the help of a small fundraiser and generous support from my family, I was able to purchase a raw piece of land in rural Costa Rica in 2022.
Since then, I’ve poured my heart into building a life here—one bucket of cement, one recycled beam, one donation at a time.
What I’ve Built So Far:
Because of limited funds, I started with almost nothing—a tent under a plastic tarp. Slowly, I built a small cabin using basic materials. I’ve added a roof, a bathroom, and poured a concrete floor myself to save on labor costs. I live without electricity, to keep things simple and sustainable. I even had a one-panel solar system donated, but the tropical weather destroyed my inverter not once but twice, so I returned to living without power.
To support myself, I teach English to my rural community, charging just $2 for group classes and $8–$12 for private lessons so it’s affordable for locals. I also offer virtual inner child healing sessions when I have access to the internet, and volunteer in local community centers and on farms. I earn just enough to eat, but not enough to make repairs or move forward with my vision.
Why I’m Asking for Help Now:
It’s been 3 years, and the tropical climate is taking its toll. My cabin is falling apart.
* The roof is caving in, full of holes that leak when it rains.
* My front gate has disintegrated—the wood has rotted from intense sun and humidity.
* The walls and structure are weakening, and storms are getting stronger every year.
I urgently need to rebuild a safe and sturdy home made from metal and concrete, materials that can withstand the harsh tropical weather.
What Your Support Will Help Build:
* A weather-resistant, durable home using metal and concrete
* A solid roof to keep out rain and protect me through the stormy season
* A new entrance gate and fencing
* A basic solar power system for minimal electricity needs
* Long-term, this space will evolve into the healing retreat center I envisioned years ago—a place of peace and reconnection for those in need
Why It Matters:
This isn’t just about me. It’s about preserving a dream that began with almost nothing—a vision for a community-centered healing space in nature. Your support will help me rebuild not just a home, but hope.
Even small contributions make a huge difference. If you can't give, sharing this story is just as powerful.
Thank you for reading. Thank you for believing in grassroots dreams.
With deep gratitude,
Daja

