DHARMA FORWARD
OUR FUTURE IS BRIGHT IF WE'RE READY FOR THE CHALLENGE
Interest in Buddhism is growing in America as people seek a better way to live in a self-centered, divisive culture. Our temples offer sangha: a community, a shared experience of the teachings, and a place to call home as we listen to the dharma together. The Institute of Buddhist Studies also offers sangha: a graduate school community of engaged scholars, practitioners, and future ministers.
These communities exist because of dedicated efforts over many generations to carry the dharma forward to us. In gratitude for the Buddha’s wisdom and compassion, now we carry the dharma forward with entrusting hearts. Our opportunity to grow is greater than ever, and the pathway to a bright future includes YOU!
SHARE THE TEACHINGS
Rev. Marvin Harada reflects on the Monarch Butterfly and Dharma Forward
DHARMA FORWARD IS OUR VISION TO BUILD THE FUTURE OF BUDDHISM IN AMERICA
BCA and the Institute of Buddhist Studies propose
a major investment in our future through these initiatives:
Supporting Dharma Forward means that we have an opportunity to grow Shin Buddhism in America so that more people may hear Shinran Shonin’s teachings in the future. Now more than ever, with all of the noise in the world, having an authentic understanding of oneself is the way forward. When we become weary, our sangha can continue to gain confidence by entrusting in the teachings, which remind us how lucky we are to be born into human life. Now we are living it!
Michiko Inanaga, Director of Development
BCA Endowment Foundation
CAMPAIGN QUESTIONS
WHAT IS OUR CAMPAIGN TARGET?
$15 million. Dharma Forward has raised over $3 million in early donations. We have resolutions of 100% support from the BCA National Board, Endowment Foundation, IBS Board of Trustees, and overwhelming support from the Ministers Association. We are now expanding outreach as we prepare for our member launch in Spring 2021. The campaign will continue until we reach our target.
THIS SOUNDS LIKE A BIG COMMITMENT TO OUR FUTURE.
It is! Now is the time to focus on digital development and Buddhist scholarship to share our teachings in innovative ways. Using the latest resources and technology, Dharma Forward will strengthen our temples by engaging members and newcomers to embrace lives of gratitude in community with one another. Our vision can only be achieved with a collective effort.
HOW CAN I GIVE TO DHARMA FORWARD?
To meet our campaign’s ambitious goals, we are requesting a five-year pledge. This allows individuals and families to consider larger gifts than could be made at one time. If you would like to structure your gift differently, we are grateful to receive donations of any amount, paid over multiple years or as a one-time gift.
HOW WILL MY PLEDGE BE ALLOCATED?
Pledges are allocated to areas of greatest need unless further specified by the donor. Projects will be prioritized by an allocation committee of BCA, IBS, and BCAEF leaders, with regular updates and annual reporting to our donors.
HOW SHOULD PLEDGES AND PAYMENTS BE MADE?
Please complete a pledge form to allow us to properly record and acknowledge your gift. Reminders will be sent according to your specified schedule. Pledge payments can be made monthly, quarterly, semi-annually or annually by check or credit card. Recurring online donation options are available at https://bca.kindful.com. To donate via stock transfer, employer matching, or Qualified Charitable Distribution from a 401K or IRA (tax-free), please contact us in advance.
IS DHARMA FORWARD THE SINGLE BEST WAY FOR ME TO GIVE TO BCA & IBS?
Dharma Forward is our comprehensive program to support the growth of BCA & IBS. We appreciate gifts to any program that is right for you and your wish to express gratitude for the teachings.
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Dana Program: Supports annual budget of existing Buddhist education programs
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Friends of IBS: Supports IBS-specific initiatives.
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Zaidan: Offerings made at district and national gatherings, Bishop Memorials
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Social Welfare Fund: Supports those suffering from deprivation of basic human needs
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1000 x $1000 x 4: Legacy program - Dharma Forward gifts may be made under these terms by request.
Questions? Contact Michiko Inanaga, BCAEF Director of Development, at minanaga@bcahq.org
BCA Endowment
BCA Endowment Foundation manages endowments, temple investment accounts, and provides fundraising support for BCA and the Institute of Buddhist Studies