I Said Yes to Myself

Had it not been for the Gangaji Foundation and their scholarship program, I would likely not be alive today. In New York City I was often unhoused, struggling with mental health issues and often suicidal. Then, at 27 my health really fell apart and I became truly desperate. I began searching for answers and eventually, stumbled upon Gangaji’s incredible website and presence on social media. This was the first time I ever heard anyone honestly speak about the blackness and hopelessness I was feeling in a way that did not feel like some sort of half-hearted, exhausted attempt at comfort. It was a simple, clear invitation. I needed more of whatever this was.

Then, I heard about an upcoming silent retreat at Fallen Leave in 2012. I had no means to get there and such a trip seemed extravagant given my living circumstances, but then I saw that there were scholarships to attend. To my surprise, I applied and the Foundation said yes. In the beautiful mountains of the Sierra Nevada, I did have a chance to sit with Gangaji. As I stared her in the eyes and she looked right back, my troubled story simply fell away. Maybe I would have to return to a living nightmare when I got back to New York, but in that moment, I could finally say, as Gangaji pointed out, “yes to myself.”

Fourteen years later I now have my PhD, I manage software engineers for a living and live a life made possible by the opportunity to ask, “who is it who dies?” In that, I said yes to life itself. Gangaji’s message and the Foundation’s support was truly a miracle that helped me realize all my problems were not who I really was, and I could ask for help with them. I got the critical care I needed for my health and for, as I found out, my lifelong Complex Post-traumatic Stress Disorder. I found my freedom from suffering.

Now, I am in a position to offer this help to others whose lives may also be saved by this simple message. I hope you join me in making a donation for $______ to the Foundation today. Poverty, hardship and illness are enormous challenges. From my experience I can say confidently though that they are met all the better when others have helped you find just a single moment to know who you really are.

A Silent Reflection of Gratitude

Imagine if you served in a volunteer role for over twenty years, but you could not speak about it, you actually had to volunteer anonymously. Then imagine the work itself is its own reward.

The former and current members of the Gangaji Foundation Scholarship Committee are a loving, silent reflection of gratitude. For every retreat and weekend, since the Foundation first opened its doors, members of the scholarship committee has been reviewing applications and awarding scholarships to those facing challenging financial circumstances and just need a little help.

Today I want to call out one of the scholarship committee members who has just retired from the role, Deborah Dow. Deborah is a beloved member of the sangha and her steadfast commitment has been deeply moving to all who have worked closely with her. If you applied or received a scholarship, I can tell you with certainly, she carefully read every word you wrote. If you are a donor helping to provide scholarships, Deborah has also been a true steward for you too, ensuring every contribution was well used.

I really can’t find the proper words to express the deep gratitude I have for Deborah and for Denise L'Heureux, her late partner who also once served on the committee. Deborah has held this volunteer role longer than anyone has ever held a volunteer role at the Gangaji Foundation! And all in secret! What an inspiration you are!

Thank you for supporting Gangaji, the staff, and the entire community with this essential task. You serve us all!

Our love and gratitude for you is no secret!

With heartfelt gratitude,

Barbara

The Truth Trauma Can Reveal

A Collective Expression of Love

 In playing the role of Executive Director, I find myself profoundly moved as I sit in a front row seat, watching all that this community creates, sustains, and embodies in service to love, peace, and freedom. My gratitude runs deep. Gangaji says it beautifully… Gratitude is an expression of love, and love is a place of refuge, the sanctuary of the heart. That is where we meet, and where we can support each other in the deepest way. 

To all the volunteers, donors, board members, staff members, and Gangaji, please accept my deepest appreciation and gratitude for all you have done to serve others in realizing the peace that is alive in every heart. You have done it together. Even though you may not know each other personally, you know each other’s hearts and know the true possibility of ending unnecessary suffering. How do I know that? Because you share what has been shared with you by contributing your time, your money, and your inspiration with the world.  

The programs of the Gangaji Foundation are enjoying your steady support which makes it possible to send a message of peace around the world through a solid digital platform that includes a robust website, social media, podcasts, archives, and online gatherings. Gangaji has actually increased her number of events in 2025, and available scholarships has grown in tandem.  

 Perhaps the brightest light on the horizon is our Prison Program. With a new digital platform for inmates, Gangaji’s course is accessible to over 950,000 inmates. We are confident that number will continue to grow. Now over 4300 prisoners have actually accessed the course digitally with another 700 continuing to receive the course by mail. In the advent of launching Edovo, our correspondence program has grown, as have requests for information.  

While I love sharing those stats as they spark pure joy in our hearts, what is essential is to appreciate the depth and meaning Gangaji’s prison program means tohas for  those on the inside. This recent letter from Jeff knocked me over and I want to share it in full with you. It is the “why” for all we do as a community. His story is reflected in all parts of the world, and I am sure you will recognize it in your own life.  

Financially, we ended 2024 with an absolute boon. The Donor Collaborative’s matching fund was fully matched in late December. Then a big surprise came—our very first donation in Bitcoin. Once it was exchanged for dollars, we added it all ups and realized we ended the year $114K over our annual donation goal. Wow!  

These blessed boon years balance out the short years and allow us to extend our emergency reserves. Having reserves means we can ride out unexpected storms—the bust years — and remain available and responsive to this sacred hunger felt around the world.  

Please take a moment to extend the hand of gratitude to yourself! To know your contribution here has benefitted many others all over the world. I mean that literally—over 164,000 podcast downloads in 160 countries. 😊 

What an opportunity we have in coming together. I look forward to seeing what the new year brings. We always have the opportunity to strengthen our capacity to meet what is here with an open heart and to share our individual and collective recognition of peace with the world.  

May all being awaken to Itself.  

Barbara Denempont 

Executive Director  

P.S. I honestly can’t think of anyone who exemplifies the true spirit of sangha more than Jeanne Powell. Also known as Clearheart, she helped launch the Gangaji Foundation from day one. Please take a moment to read about her life and experiences.  I am confident if you are reading this, her life has touched yours. 

A Beautiful Life: A Tribute to Clearheart

Self Love, Innocence and Causeless Joy

Finally, The Truth

What if I Don't Manage My Emotions

Cracked Open

I Am Home