Supporter Drive 2024 – Kate R.
This week, Kate R. shares the impact of dharma practice at KCC on her life and the inspiration she finds in being a part of the KCC sangha:
“I can say from my heart, that there is not a single thing in my life that hasn’t improved since I started attending KCC. The Dharma is all heart and its impact is why I support KCC with a monthly donation.
My practice has changed me for the better, helped me develop a certain peace of mind and inner calmness, clarity, a purpose driven life, and desire to really help every person I come in contact with. When I have negative feelings toward others, I can now stop and LOOK at why that is. Wow. I didn’t know I could do that!
Volunteering to assist in KCC activities can also serve as a crucial means of community support beyond financial contributions. Organize a garden work event! Go to an SCOL work party and connect to new and old friends. Share some time together, build some relationships while doing “chores”, see a different point of view, feel supported in your meditation practice and life.
I’ve met so many incredible folks at KCC. Our members do very important personal and professional work out in our communities. It is so inspiring to be around this collective mindset of developing our bodhicitta and being of benefit to others. I’m so appreciative of the center, all those who have been here and worked wholeheartedly to bring the dharma to greater numbers of people and help each other.
This sense of inspiration and appreciation compels me to contribute as a sustaining member of KCC, with a desire to increase my support even further. Donating allows us to expand our circle of community to embrace any person who comes to KCC to try out the dharma, no strings attached. Every contribution will support this precious community and its mission to share the dharma to those who seek it.”
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.