Our story

Heart-Forward was founded in October 2022, inspired by a retreat experience deep in the Amazon rainforest. The journey began when Jade Chen of Mud Lotus Life led a retreat called Sanctuary, supported by Monica Nagy, who had recently entered retirement. Hosted at a small eco-lodge in the village of Santa María de Fátima—new to welcoming international guests—the retreat revealed both the beauty of the space and the aspirations of its new owners to improve the property.

Moved by the lodge owners’ vision, Jade and the retreat participants came together to raise funds in support of the lodge’s development. It was during this experience that the idea for a nonprofit organization took shape—one focused on extending similar opportunities for rest, renewal, and healing to others, regardless of financial means.

Julie Baldia, a fellow retreat participant approaching retirement, soon joined Monica in bringing this vision to life. Together, they dedicated months to establishing the organization’s foundation and completing the required legal filings. Heart-Forward was officially approved as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization on August 14, 2023.

• The Board of Directors currently consists of Monica Nagy and Julie Baldia.

• Completed successful campaign with Motherful.org.

• To date, Heart-Forward has donated $1,000 to Maui Medic Healers Hui

• To view the Heart-Forward 2023 990 PF form, click here.

• To view the 1023 EZ application form, click here.