Kripalu Center for Yoga & Health, the largest retreat center for yoga and holistic living in the U.S., has been awarded a $2 million challenge grant from the Peter Alfond Foundation for innovative programming initiatives and infrastructure improvements. The grant, which will be paid over the next four years, requires dollar-to-dollar contribution from other donors.

"We feel fortunate to have Peter Alfond and the Peter Alfond Foundation take such an active interest in Kripalu Center and its potent contribution to individuals and society as a whole," says Kripalu Center President Garrett Sarley. "This generous investment in Kripalu Center helps build immeasurable momentum for both our revitalized vision and our fundraising efforts, all of which will help us serve even more people."

The challenge grant will fund the facilities development plan that includes renovation of the building and other capital improvements, strategic planning and programming initiatives. One of the grant's requirements calls for increased fundraising leadership by Kripalu's Board of Trustees who are to donate or raise 25 percent of the matching funds. In addition, none of the funds raised for this challenge are to be used for operational expenses.

"The Peter Alfond Foundation is pleased to make this challenge grant to Kripalu Center," says Greg Powell, a trustee of the Peter Alfond Foundation. "The foundation selected Kripalu Center because of its enormous impact in helping people enjoy more balanced lives and in turn helping to create a more conscious, compassionate world."

The Peter Alfond Foundation is an independent, private foundation, created in 1993 by the personal gifts of Peter Alfond. It is not affiliated with any corporation or organization.

Kripalu Center offers more than 900 experiential programs in yoga, self-discovery, holistic health, and spirituality that present ancient yogic principles in a contemporary, accessible, yet profound way. Educational programs are designed to provide participants with tools they can apply in their daily lives. Kripalu Center has served people of all backgrounds for more than 30 years and is located in the Berkshire Mountains of western Massachusetts, less than three hours from Boston and New York City. More information is available on their Web site, www.kripalu.org.

Source:
www.kripalu.org