Today I am adding a "Tip Jar" to my blog to help me raise funds to help the less fortunate in my area.

As is the case with most areas of the world, there is no shortage of ways I — we — can help the people of Costa Rica.

To begin with, there is an orphanage a few blocks away from me called "El Pueblito" — or Little Town. These kids desperately need clothes, books, tutors and mentors.

Then there are the Bribri Indians. These beautiful people live without running water or electricity. They are rarely educated. Kids go to work doing extremely menial labor at a very young age to help support the family. A 16-year-old Bribri who was working with my friend, Colin, did not even know how to tell time or eat with a knife. They could really use some help in fixing up their homes, with purchasing much-needed medicine and mentoring / educational support.

Another group I like a lot is "Hogar Crea." It’s a dynamic drug and alcohol program that is huge here in Costa Rica. They accept everyone and the number of people they help annually is amazing. And they do not accept (I’m not sure they are even offered) money from the government. All their funds come from private donations. And at this time they are really hurting for funds.

My intention is to help all three of these with my own funds — and any funds I can get from caring people such as yourself. In addition, I’m at the beginning stages of putting together a website that lists local organizations looking for volunteers. There are always people willing to help, but they don’t always know where to go. I hope to help match up the willing with those who really need help.

If you have any suggestions of places in need of help — or are willing to volunteer your time, please let me know by sending me an email.

Thanks in advance for your kind-hearted donation.