Our Story

Heart-Forward was born in the Amazon jungle in October 2022, inspired by a shared retreat experience rooted in connection, service, and healing. During the Sanctuary retreat hosted by Mud Lotus Life in the Peruvian village of Santa María de Fátima, a clear vision emerged: to create a nonprofit that expands access to healing retreats and supports transformative spaces, regardless of income level.

In the days following the retreat, participants came together to support a local eco lodge and its surrounding community—marking our first collective act of giving and our inaugural fundraising effort. From this experience, and through the dedication of founders Jade Chen, Monica Nagy, and Julie Baldia, Heart-Forward was officially granted 501(c)(3) nonprofit status on August 14, 2023.

Guided by a shared belief in compassion and connection, we move forward as one heart—creating opportunities for healing, peace, and possibility for all.

Heart-Forward continues to expand access to transformative retreat experiences, guided by a simple belief: when we give with the heart, what we create together reaches far beyond ourselves.

“From many hearts, one purpose was formed—and Heart-Forward was born.”