
Supporting Those Who Support Us
Dear Friends,
In the past six months, many of us have felt an urgent desire to reduce suffering—both in our own lives and in the world around us. As if “normal” life weren’t challenging enough, we are now navigating a time of profound uncertainty and upheaval.
In times like these, the need for community connection and mutual aid becomes more evident and important. Mutual aid provides essential lifelines – we can survive and even grow and thrive by providing mutual aid within our communities. At KCC, we offer spiritual mutual aid through Dharma teachings, daily practices, and the support of Sangha. These resources help us experience the world with greater compassion, wisdom and resilience.
KCC’s work is made possible by many volunteers and—especially—our dedicated staff, who sustain our offerings and guide our shared practice.
Sustaining Supporter Campaign Update
Thanks to your generosity, we’ve met our initial goal of $10,000 in new or increased annual sustaining gifts. We unlocked a full matching donation—doubling the impact to $20,000. And this support came from just 21 donors.
Now, with two weeks left in our drive, we’re reaching for a new goal:
👉 $12,000 in additional annual sustaining support.
Why this new goal?
A recent salary review revealed that our Portland staff earn, on average, 32% below a thriving wage. Our current 2025 budget is just under $400,000—over half of which goes to staff wages and benefits for 4 full-time and 1 part-time employee. Doing the math, KCC’s employee compensation falls short.
This compensation shortfall has historical roots and the board feels that, if unaddressed, this pay gap will be a serious obstacle to retaining and attracting the staff we depend on to fulfill our larger mission of offering the Dharma freely. Meeting this new $12K goal would allow the KCC Board to include a cost of living increase (typically 3.5%) in 2026 and take a step towards closing the wage gap.
Already, before this email could be sent, KCC received an additional $6,900 in recurring support. We’re only $5000 away from meeting the new goal! The size of pledges varies widely. Every new or increased pledge—large or small—is deeply appreciated.
To customize your giving schedule or amount, contact .
The world feels increasingly unstable. The need for the Dharma has never been greater. For KCC to fulfill its mission, our dedicated staff must be supported and be able to thrive.
If you’re able to start or increase a sustaining gift, you can help KCC continue to offer spiritual mutual aid and be a good steward of our teachings, spaces, and staff.
Thank you for your practice, your generosity, and your commitment to this community.
KCC is committed to freely offering the Dharma to all.
To do so, we invite those with greater financial capacity to give a higher percentage of their income to balance the giving of others who can give less. For consideration:
If your income is $100K per year:
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- a pledge of 5% of your income would be $416/mo.
- a pledge of 3% of your income would be $250/mo.
If your income is $75K per year,
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- a pledge of 2% of your income would be $125/mo.
If your income is $30K per year,
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- a pledge of 1% of your income would be $25/mo.
To customize your giving, contact:
Other Ways to Support KCC
Mutual Aid Opportunities for KCC Sangha Members
Two longtime community members would appreciate support in their healing and relocation journeys.
Bob Wilson: Now back home after falling and rehabilitating in assisted living, Bob and his partner could use help with a few meals, transportation, lawn mowing, and meditation support. MEALTRAIN LINK
Ruth Heyes: For an upcoming relocation from Vancouver WA to NE Portland, 2 or 3 able-bodied people are needed to help with the light move on 28 July. You can also support funds for a truck rental. Sign up or donate here: MEALTRAIN LINK
