Dana is a Sanskrit word meaning "to give alms, to practice charity." It shares the same ancient root as our modern word "donate." In Mahayana Buddhist teaching Dana is the first of the six Paramitas, or Practices of Perfection. To give of oneself is to explore that which seems to separate us from others, and that which joins us all in the interconnectedness of all things.

We have many opportunities to give of ourselves in this world, where there is so much need. We certainly hope you will choose to help support the North Carolina Zen Center, and we would be happy to have your support. We do, however, hope that before you donate to the Center you will keep in mind the great many people across the undeveloped world who live every day in want and privation. We urge you to make a donation to the charity of you choice which is engaged in ending world hunger and poverty. For more information please click here.
Many people have given in order to create this Center, and this Center is our gift of the Dharma to others, and to those who come after us. The North Carolina Zen Center is a non-profit entity which is supported entirely by donations from individuals and foundations. Without the contributions of its many supporters it could not exist. Without the Center, and without the Brooks Branch Zendo which it supports, our chances to attend retreats, to meet regularly with a teacher, and to further our practice in many other ways would be diminished.
There are a number of ways to support the Center. Donations may be made directly to the Center itself in several ways. Cash is accepted. Checks should be made out to The North Carolina Zen Center. Contributions may be mailed or may be made in person at scheduled services and events by leaving them in the Dana box at the Center.
The Center also accepts on-line donations through Click and Pledge. You may follow the adjacent link to make your secure tax-deductible donation immediately using your credit card. You should note that while we welcome online contributions, the Click and Pledge service takes a small percentage of your donation to cover the cost of their service. If you want every penny of your donation to come to the Center, please make your contribution in the traditional manner.
It is very helpful for the Center to have a measure of predictability to its finances, to help it meet monthly operating expenses. Committing to a small monthly donation is greatly appreciated. You can do this informally, or through Click and Pledge, or by direct arrangement with the Center.
The Center also accepts donations to cover the cost of retreats. Should you be coming to a retreat, a donation of $35 per night is requested in order to cover the cost of meals and care and maintenance of the facility. All donations are optional and of course you can contribute more. Also, please keep in mind that this donation goes entirely to the Center, and that Sandy also accepts personal donations for his services as teacher. All donations to the Center are tax-deductible, so please keep records for tax purposes.
The Center also asks that you remember us in your will, so that this growth of the Dharma in America will continue to thrive year after year.
Finally, the Center looks to its members for help with many small and large tasks, all of which provide the opportunity to practice Dana. There are several work-weekends scheduled over the course of the year where practitioners are invited to share whatever time and skills they have to help finishing and maintaining the Center. And at any time there are many small jobs needing the attention of someone, whether it be building a shelf, making a curtain or mowing the grass. What can you do to help?
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