'Developing but not yet developed' well describes the state of things here in Costa Rica. In 1996 the country graduated from dependence on foreign aid- most significantly USAID assistance of over 1.7 billion since the 1960's- to a series of international free-trade agreements that helped diversify and stabilize the economy. This, in turn, allowed Costa Rica to qualify for and receive international development loans and a significant debt load along with it. The reasons for this debt are many and the tax reforms being implemented today lean heavily on small businesses, making things difficult for them in the foreseeable future.

Here's why you should care: Costa Rica is far and above the rest of Central America in terms of development, security, and quality of life. Those benefits come at a cost, and we must be willing to pay it. A significant portion of our local economy has been cash-based, meaning taxes not collected or paid, and therefore funds for essential services are sparse.

If you are a visitor, please stay at a registered business and stick around one more night to try new experiences and somewhere to eat. If you are a resident, make your next holiday a stay-cation and get to know more of the many great offers we have all around us.

The more we can support each other, the better off we are. The money we spend at local businesses contributes to a better quality of life as local companies hire and promote from within the community. Likewise, supporting local non-profits enhances our social structure and well-being. There are endless ways to contribute. Donate used clothes and items to the Family Support Center Ojochal or Uvita Goodwill Store, support our SafeBeach and Lifeguard programs, share the Ojos en la Calle community security app and consider volunteering on a local committee. All of these examples help tighten the knit and strength of our community at a time we need it most.

CONTACT: Perry Gladstone - SOMOS Foundation at www.SOMOS.cr