A Letter From the BCA Endowment Foundation Board President

Dear BCA Sangha Members and Friends:

Our Human Condition and Dharma Forward

The American people have suffered under many stresses and strains over the past few years. It was caused  by the environment (COVID-19) and also by people. Some people have suffered more than others and all people might feel better with greater peace of mind. It is challenging to fix our complicated world, but receiving insight into understanding ourselves and others and what the future may bring can provide relief. Contributions to the Dharma Forward campaign supports the efforts of the Buddhist Churches of America to provide helpful teachings and experiences for members of our community and supports the efforts of the Institute of Buddhist Studies to instruct students in practicing and transmitting learnings of Buddhist wisdom and compassion. We all can help to build a better world.

2024 BCA Endowment Foundation Results

The Endowment Foundation manages the investments of the BCA, the IBS and 28 affiliated organizations and coordinates the Dharma Forward fundraising efforts.

This past year, the Endowment Growth Fund earned a return of +13.8%, which compares to +17.0% in 2023, -19.0% in 2022 and +10.3% in 2021. Impact of the government response to COVID-19 both in boosting the economy and then fighting resulting inflation, the effects of Russia invading Ukraine and the underlying strength in our economy has caused the ups and downs in the market over the past several years.  

Investments increased by $5,513,228 in 2024 compared to an increase by $5,859,794 in 2023. $2,412,371 was disbursed to BCA and IBS programs in 2024. Total assets managed by the Endowment increased from $44 million to $49 million. The annualized return for the Growth Fund over the past 12 years is 7.7%. Moderate positive returns are projected but will be subject to the impact of new policies such as tariffs and events. Investing in equities such as in the Growth Fund should be part of a long multi-year strategy that can accommodate a potential loss along with gains.

As of Dec. 31, 2024, the Dharma Forward campaign has collected $12,496,270, which is over 83% toward the target of $15 million. Contributing to Dharma Forward adds to the ability of BCA and IBS to support members and the greater community in meeting what the future will bring. If you need any assistance, please contact Michiko Inanaga, Director of Development at the BCA Endowment Foundation at minanaga@bcahq.org or 415-651-5164.

In Gassho,

Charles Ozaki

President BCA Endowment Foundation