Membership Drive 2024 – Eric T.
This week, Eric T (a dedicated A/V volunteer!) shares how his dharma exploration has changed over the years.
I was initially drawn to Buddhism looking for “big answers”. What is the nature of mind? Why is there suffering? And while I maintain a deepening appreciation for the vast and subtle philosophical aspects of the dharma I find myself much more enriched by the practices that help me to be more present and compassionate in my daily life. How do I wash the dishes mindfully? How can I be more available and helpful for the people in my life?
Though more often than not I find myself caught up in the turbulence of my mind and our world, the practice serves to remind me of the ever-present opportunity to meet any situation with calm, warmth, and openness. The teaching and the community of practitioners at KCC are invaluable for my practice and I will be forever grateful for our precious sangha!
Sustaining Supporter Drive Update
Welcome to our eight new sustaining supporters who have started monthly pledges to KCC! These generous contributions range from $10 to $108 per month.
Thank you for your commitment to helping KCC freely offer the Dharma to everyone who walks through our doors or joins us online! Will others join our new supporters in starting a monthly pledge?
So far, our sustaining supporter campaign has increased KCC’s annual income by $7,476. Can we reach $10,000? $15,000? Together, we can make it happen!
Dharma of Dollars
KCC is committed to providing the teachings of the Dharma freely. To do this, we must generate enough revenue to compensate our staff, maintain the Portland Center, SCOL Retreat Center and numerous online offerings.
Recently, a newer member said that KCC feels like an organization with a $1,000,000 budget. The truth is that the rich offerings of KCCs regular practices, programs, and retreats are accomplished by dedicated staff, committed volunteers and a small budget of about $350,000.
Like many organizations, KCC is feeling the effects of inflation. The growth of income is not keeping pace with expenses, especially wages and benefits for our five wonderful employees, including Lama Eric, the Managing Director, and our SCOL staff.
- The Board recently decided to “pause” on filling the part-time Portland Center Operations Manager position due to our projected budget shortfall.
- The cost of insurance, Zoom and other key software subscriptions continue to rise.
- The cost of fuel and other essentials for SCOL operations and maintenance have increased, too.
- Replacement of the roof and siding at the Portland center is also an imminent expense.
Furthermore, the KCC Board is committed to providing Cost-of-Living-Adjustments to staff because KCC compensation is quite low in a high cost-of-living area like Portland, OR.
In 2024, the KCC budget looks like:
- Projected Expenses: $366,000
- Projected Employee Wages and Benefits: $207,468
- Projected Income: $351,000
- $125,000 from programming; $225,000 from contributions
- This includes a $30,000 legacy gift
- Shortfall: $15,000
- Without the legacy gift, our shortfall this year would be $45,000
Sustaining Supporters are the financial foundation of KCC.
During the 2024 Sustaining Supporter Drive, we ask you to consider:
- Becoming a New Supporter
- Increasing Your Pledge
- Making a one-time Donation
Currently, about 130 supporters make recurring pledges.
An average monthly pledge of $175 would balance KCC’s budget.
Give enthusiastically within your means!
Here is some information to consider & guide you:
If your income is $100K per year,
a pledge of 5% of your income would be $416/mo.
a pledge of 2% of your income would be $166/mo.
If your income is $60K per year,
a pledge of 1% of your income would be $50/mo.
If your income is $30K per year,
a pledge of 1% of your income would be $25/mo.
Donate
Bi-weekly Raffle!
During the 2024 Sustaining Supporter Drive, you will be entered into a bi weekly drawing to when you:
- become a new sustaining supporter
- increase your pledge
- make a one-time donation
Make your donation early to be entered into all 4 drawings!
Volunteer Support
KCC recognizes that not all individuals are able to make a financial contribution. Volunteer efforts by sangha members are also invaluable contributions to ensure that tasks vital to KCC practices, retreats, and general operations are completed with care. Contact Sally Mead to find a volunteer role that supports KCC.
