Gratitude Challenge is a Huge Success

December’s Gratitude Challenge ended our fundraising year, Planting the Seeds, with overwhelming success. Gratitude is all about exchange, giving of oneself without expectation for return. Your expressions of gratitude, in the form of your many donations, have helped us through another year.

2011 was one of the most successful years for fundraising in the Center’s history. We received $242,222.19 in donations and foundation grants. The Center received 2,355 hours of volunteer support from those who showed up to help us during the program season. Volunteers living throughout the country contributed many additional hours.

Because of your gifts of time, talent and funds, the following was made possible:

· Replacement of the 2 boilers that heat our buildings

· Replacement of the engine for the electric generator

· Correction to water drainage issues around the foundations of two main buildings

· Firewood donations that will last us many years

· We have started remodeling the gazebo to turn it into a healing space

· We received seed money for scholarships to help people attend our programs

· And of course funds for our general operating expenses

Blue Deer Center received close to 800 individual donations in 2011 which represents a deep base of caring. The seeds that were planted in 2011 are germinating now, and we will be Tending the Plants with your continued support in 2012.

The Center staff and Board of Directors wish to express our deep gratitude for the sense of fullness that your generosity has brought to our work. When we reflect back over all that you have given to the Center, we cannot thank you enough.

In gratitude,

Peter Brown, Fundraising Director