Erika Rodriguez President of US Board

A Florida native, outdoor lover and graphic designer, Erika was living in the Costa Rican town of Jaco surfing, serving in the local church and resting after two years of ministry in Papua New Guinea when a friend told her about Cherie. She visited Residence of Life in October of 2016 with the intention of volunteering occasionally, but God had other plans. Two weeks later, she moved to Grecia and in the years to follow, learned Spanish, filled the roles of house mom, director and in 2018 assumed the presidency of both the US and Costa Rican boards due to Cherie’s illness. During the last few years of her time in Costa Rica, Erika also fostered six of our own children. Her passion is to see Jesus’ true healing for each of the kids and to create real community and family, not only for the children, but for the staff as well.

Although she returned to the US in early 2025, she continues to work with the Costa Rican admin team and board in an advising role as well as serve as the liaison between the US and Costa Rica, telling the story of Residence of Life whenever she has opportunity. If you are interested in hearing more about the ministry or have her visit your church or small group, please contact us via email at info@residenceoflife.org.