Happy holidays and thanks to all for reading and responding to my appeal.
BACKGROUND
I have had a severe financial setback at this late stage of my life, but I also believe there might be a unique opportunity of securing my retirement again and also providing a means of helping those in similar situations to do the same.
I am a Master Gardener in both Maine and New Hampshire, with a Bachelor degree in Earth Sciences. I have worked for gardening companies in my local area, have worked at a Farmer’s Market, and Educational Farm and have maintained the grounds of several local estates for the past 8-10 years.
I recently owned 17 acres of some good land in Maine and was beginning to make my retirement home. However, a financial disaster in my family forced me to sell my property to cover these losses. Now I have to start over, though with very limited funds.
THE GOAL
I would like to purchase a somewhat smaller property, establish greenhouses for a nursery, build workshops and set up a retail and internet business presence. Sometime soon thereafter, I would like to hire a small crew and offer classes and training sessions to those who are looking to establish some self-sufficiency in their own lives. (And build a retirement fund for myself as well.)
ASSETS AND FINANCIAL NEEDS
I currently have some cash assets, tools, business contacts, supplies, a legal advisor, on-going employment (part-time) and some other miscellaneous resources to get me started. I have realistic goals and a business plan. I can pay for building materials, seed/plant stocks, transportation and other smaller costs out-of-hand. However, I would like to purchase suitable land before Spring 2025. My searching so far indicates that a 3-5 acre plot of land can be bought for about $25,000-$30,000. This is the amount I am asking for.
REWARDS
I lost my retirement home but now envision a “working retirement”. I have the skill sets and experience to make this work as a small business opportunity with positive cash income.
I am asking for your aid. I can’t possibly do this without help. Buying suitable land is the priority.
In exchange for the financial help that I receive, I thought of establishing a grove of American Elm or American Chestnut trees on the property in the name of all those who contribute. Both species were virtually wiped out by pests during the last century and helping to re-establish these species would be a lasting legacy for all of us. I have contacted one state university and they seem willing to lend assistance in getting this started. A contribution of $200 by 150 people or groups would get this project started, though any amount would be welcome!
Please feel free to contact me if you should have any questions or suggestions. Can I count on your help?