Raising the Roof
The time has come. We knew it was coming. We need to replace our roof!
When we bought our Dharma home in 2016, the inspectors warned us that the south-facing shingled roof would only last for a few more years. It is now clear that our roof has reached the end of its useful life. The small leak we patched this winter is just one of many signs insistently telling us it is time.
Soaking Up the Sun
It turns out that even a leaking roof has a silver lining. After we replace the roof, it will provide the ideal platform for solar panels as its south-facing orientation is perfect for capturing the sun’s energy year-round.
From the start, solar energy has been a long-term goal at our Center. After all, caring for the earth is why we compost, use sustainable cleaning products, discourage the use of paper and plastic, and put in LED lighting after we opened. Now that it’s time to replace the roof, we can go ahead and make this dream a reality.
What We are Capable of
This project is big, no doubt. But it is not beyond our reach, especially considering our history and how much we’ve already been able to accomplish. In four years, we’ve remarkably transformed a vacant credit union into an inviting and sustainable home for Buddha’s teaching.
We have been able to do all of this because you have always stepped up and supported the mission and vision of our Center. Your generosity has made all of this possible!
The Numbers
The cost of this project might induce sticker shock, but bear with us, for immediately afterward, we will have some good news to share. The roof portion of the project should cost between $40,000 and $45,000. The solar panel system should cost about $50,000. That makes for a total fundraising goal of $90,000 to $95,000.
The Good News
Yes, the numbers are intimidating– that’s why we saved the best news till last! We have had three generous donors step forward already, and we didn’t even have to ask!!! They have collectively pledged $25,000 toward our goal. What a great beginning that is! Also, since last fall, Climate Sangha has already raised over $2,000 for this project. Money raised will first go toward the cost of a new roof, then to solar panels.
There are several innovative and attractive solar energy financing options available from companies that specialize in working with nonprofit organizations. These plans would allow us to take advantage of generous federal tax credits normally not available to nonprofits. And let’s not forget the energy cost savings over the years, a gift that keeps on giving.
How to Contribute
You can pledge now and pay later; the funds will be needed by June of this year. Or mail a check now to 3111 Wissemann Drive, Sacramento, 95826. You can also donate online at our website. We are moving fast on this so we can replace the roof in the summer when it is dry and before the tax credits drop in 2021.
Soon we will have information on how to buy an individual solar panel! SDC is set up to take stock donations or automobile donations. Email Linda Dekker at zendekker@gmail.com for more information about ways to donate.
Find Out More
There is too much detail to go into here, so over the next few months, we will be updating you with more information about the process. We hope to have a seminar on March 29th, Sunday afternoon, where our Building Manager Bob Jenne and a solar energy system contractor will explain our plan and answer any and all questions. Please attend if you can. Whether you become a donor to this campaign or not, we want everyone to be informed!
PS Our new roof will meet California’s “cool roof” standards, which means we’ll be using less electricity for air conditioning. Plus, by generating our own power with solar panels, our SMUD electricity bills will go down significantly, probably by at least two thirds!
PPS What could be more important to a home than a good roof and the satisfaction of knowing that we are helping the planet? Every contribution helps, big or small!
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