The board of Northwest Dharma Association is very pleased to welcome George Draffan as the executive director of NWDA.

Many of you have heard of or met George over the many years of his involvement with the association. He brings tremendous background and commitment to the position. We are very pleased to have him on board.

George will be focused on strengthening the bonds we have with one another as Buddhists throughout the region. He will also be helping the board plan strategically for the long-term sustainability of NWDA.

For more on that, please see my article in the last issue of Northwest Dharma News.

Please read George’s letter below to hear more about his plans.

I hope that you will consider helping with the great endeavor of creating a true “Mahasangha” of followers of the Buddhadharma in our region.

There many ways to do so. NWDA is founded on the principle that sharing our paths creates a stronger presence of Buddhism in the Northwest.

• You can get involved by making sure that your sangha, temple, or group is utilizing the resources of NWDA effectively, including becoming a member.
• You can check the website and calendar to discover events and dharma groups you can attend.
• You can become a member of NWDA’s Mahasangha Mala to donate to the growth of resources for furthering these connections.
• You can become a board member of NWDA.

Northwest Dharma Association is unique in North America, as unique as the region where we live. Our website, calendar and, especially, the outstanding news magazine Northwest Dharma News, do not exist elsewhere. We have been able to sustain this thanks to the commitment of the member groups that comprise NWDA and the dedication of people, like you, who give. Thank you.

We are in the midst of our semi-annual fund drive. Please consider a gift to NWDA.

If you have ideas or suggestions for NWDA’s work, please write me.

Yours in the dharma,
Tim Tapping, president of the board
Northwest Dharma Association