Since 2009, I have operated on a strict ethos: I build the web for people, not just for profit. I have always used a donation-only model because I believe good humans deserve a home on the web regardless of their means. But today, for the first time, reality is forcing me to veer from that path.

How can someone put one foot in front of the other when they are stuck in a hole?

I’ve always hustled to make this work. I’ve worked side jobs, part-time gigs, and done whatever it took to cover the bills so I could offer my skills for free. There have been times I’ve lived outside or gone without food just to keep this mission alive. I’m not saying that to be a martyr. Some have called it stupid to let it get to that point—but I did it because I believe in this work and the people I help.

A History of Showing Up

I haven’t just been coding; I’ve been building and caring for others. An example is Vessel Skate. They managed to fund and run the first indoor skatepark in Massachusetts. Over 5 years later, I’m still hosting and maintaining the site at no cost to them. (New site coming January 2026!)

I know people don’t often respect “free.” If there is no price tag, they don’t see value. But even when reciprocation is not forthcoming I keep at it because it is the most important thing to me.

The Crash

But this year broke that cycle. I lost the local job that was keeping me afloat right as I was making a massive transition to save my dog, Finn.

I left the apartment I was sharing specifically to take Finn with me. He had suffered through seven years of neglect with my old roommate, and I was determined to make it right. I spent what I had on vet bills to fix the damage done to him. I even took on an extra 20 hours a week of caretaking for two gentlemen nearing 90 years old in exchange for housing. I did this to secure a safe space for Finn and a dedicated place for me to work.

It was supposed to be a sanctuary. Instead, it turned into three months of constant construction noise—which is still happening right now, today, December 10th.

The stress and the noise hit Finn hard and he developed colitis. Treating him wiped out the last of my savings. Now, I am facing a reality I can’t work my way out of alone. The biggest fear I have right now isn’t just about money; it’s about stability. I simply cannot risk being separated from Finn after fighting so hard to save him.

So, I am asking for help. I need to clear the runway so I can get back to work.

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Option 1: The Reciprocity Donation

To everyone I’ve helped in the past: If I built your site, fixed your code, or promoted your work, and you’ve since “moved on” or leveled up, I am asking for you to look back. Please offer a hand up. If my work helped you get to where you are, a donation right now would mean the world to me.

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Option 2: Hire Me

The “Green & Fast” Site Audit ($150)

I am fully capable of doing deep-dive accessibility and performance work. However, for this emergency sprint, I am offering a high-value ‘Roadmap Audit.’ I will review your site. I will tell you exactly what to fix for 2026 concerning speed, security, and your carbon footprint.

Note: If you have an enterprise budget or are looking for the best in their field, I will refer you to these Specialized Industry Leaders:

• Accessibility: Amber Hinds at Equalize Digital
• Security: Tim Nash
• Carbon Training: Hannah Smith at Green The Web

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The Essential Launch ($650)

This is not a “brochure” site. With modern WordPress (6.9) and Block Themes, I can build a powerful, business-ready engine in 24-48 hours. If you have your content ready, I can launch a site that processes data, looks professional, and ranks well—fast.

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The Growth Partner Monthly Retainer ($135/mo)

This is the keep the lights on tier. I am not charging you just to click ‘update’: modern hosting like Pressable or plugins like Jetpack can handle that, and I can show you how to set them up.

You are hiring me as your on-call web developer. When you need something changed, built, or fixed to get things accomplished, I am there to do it. I only need 8 people on this plan to cover my basic survival bills.

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The Partner Plus Custom Build ($1,800)

This is for partners needing a full system overhaul (e-commerce/WooCommerce, booking systems). I am clearing my schedule to prioritize these builds immediately.

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Community Gratitude

Finally, I want to mention a few of the people who have made and continue to make all the difference in the world:

• Thomas Francine (Go Greater Good): Thomas has been a consistent source of friendship and support behind the scenes. His work with Go Greater Good is a constant reminder of the impact we can have when we prioritize connection over transaction. He has helped keep me grounded when things felt impossible.
• Michelle Frechette: She is the heart of the WP community. Michelle doesn’t just connect people; she champions them. She sees the people behind the code and ensures that no one feels invisible in this massive industry.
• Big Orange Heart: This organization is a lifeline. They are doing the critical work of supporting remote worker mental health when we need it most. They are the safety net that so many of us didn’t know we needed until we fell.

I love this community and I love this work. I’m just asking for a hand to get through this month so I can keep doing it.