On June 23rd, our community came together for the Coliazul Solstice Benefit Event 2024, an inspiring day dedicated to raising funds for the construction of our initial workshop building, which will also serve as a classroom, and support the operations of the children’s program. This event marked a significant milestone in our journey, reflecting the collective spirit and dedication that define Coliazul.
The weeks leading up to the event were filled with planning and coordination, with immense support from the Diamante Bridge Collective, who connected us with supporters and donors, and Diamante Luz, who helped steward and build the beautiful community space to host the event. Parents held numerous meetings, teachers wholeheartedly encouraged the kids, and community helpers diligently planned and prepared the food. The sense of teamwork and shared purpose was very energizing, setting the stage for a memorable day.
By fostering a community that values sustainability and interconnectedness, we are contributing to a more resilient and harmonious community grounded in Nature.
The day was filled with joy and excitement as friends, neighbors, and new acquaintances gathered to support the project, learn more about our mission, and celebrate together. The atmosphere was electric with the warmth of community bonds, enhanced by a variety of activities and live performances that showcased the talents and enthusiasm of our members.
There was a lot of delicious food all donated by people from our community. Many things came ready and our beautiful kitchen team prepared even more, and attended lovingly all our guests. All the money made from selling the food went into our donations bucket.
A truly heart-touching moment was when the children of Coliazul, who had been practicing diligently for weeks, took the stage to perform the songs they had learned in class. Their self-confidence and joy were felt deeply, and it was evident how much they had grown and bonded as a community since the start of our journey together.
We feel so inspired and supported by all the beautiful gifts from our community that made up the prizes for the Raffle. Many from our community gifted their service or creations so we could raise the funds.
This is what people got for donating for Raffle tickets
Regenesis (Travis) – 2 hour Permaculture Walk and Talk
Cantanda Michèle – 1 CD Album Peace Shall Come
Elif – bracelets, marbles, birthday cards
Carima Digital (Randall) – Tech Support 4x hours
Bazet (Tanja and Karina) – incense sticks
Danibelle – DBC Land Nodes Tour
Pacific Journeys (Chapman Family) Waterfall Day Hiking tour for 1
HOME Farm – 2 night stay
Tim – 90 minute Human Design and/or Astrology reading
Elif – Shamanic Reiki Session
Tsiru – Lectura Cruz Maya
RahQuel Star – Gamma Breathwork and Reiki Virtual Session
Christine Castigliano – Sound healing session
Esther – liver cleanse guide and personal guidance
Mia – intentional journey
Arturo – relationship building astrology human design reading
Anael Bonsorte – amazing electric guitar!!!
Finca La Joya del Sol – delicions and nutritious raw dried fruits and chocolate bars
Sheima – ankket
Prizes included a hike and overnight stay in the cave at the Diamante waterfall, a guitar from the estate of a passed musician and various healing and counseling sessions. The children were very successful ticket sellers and took turns to draw the winning tickets.
Parents and community members also contributed with exceptional acts, including fun improv theater led by Tanja Otolski, soulful singing by Cantanda Michèle, energetic rapping by Jocelin, and vibrant Balkan gypsy music by the band San Sal Ziganys, featuring several of our dedicated parents.
The grand finale was a drumming and singing circle around the fire, led by parents Alan and Tanja. This beautiful ritual is a powerful reminder of our ancient practices that connects us and weaves our communities generation after generation.
This day was a great success thanks to the committed work of many community members, and there will definitely be a next time!