Why I’m Grateful to You! #GivingTuesday – a Letter from SMC’s Development Associate, Whitney Trotta
This Tuesday, November 27th is #GivingTuesday, a movement to create an international day of giving. However, I’d like to propose that we change #GivingTuesday into “Gratitude Tuesday.” I’m not the first to propose this, and I’m certainly not against giving (please give generously!), it’s that, to me, gratitude is the real reason for the season.
This year, I’m so appreciative of SMC’s patrons. I’ve seen first hand how important your gifts are to keeping SMC going. And, your generosity has given me a special gift.
I began my time here at Shambhala Mountain Center as a summer volunteer, supporting the Development Team. Now, I am honored to be on staff as the Development Associate.
Living at SMC has given me everything I’ve been looking for: the ability to use my skills for a meaningful purpose, living in community with people on a similar path, room for spiritual growth, and so much beautiful nature!
This place is truly special.
The most important gift I received since living here was a moment in Shambhala Level I Training where I finally, truly accepted myself. I realized I don’t have to wait until I’m “perfect” to love myself. I can rest in knowing I am OK. I am basically good.
This sense of inner peace is what I want for the world. And that is what you provide each time you give.
Thank you.
This #GivingTuesday I invite you to share what you appreciate about SMC. You can share your response with us here. We hope to share some of these responses with all of you as the campaign moves forward.
If you are inspired to give, there’s an opportunity in just a few days to double your donation! Facebook will match all donations made on Giving Tuesday, November 27th. You can donate to SMC’s Facebook fundraiser here, share that page with your friends and family, or even create your own fundraiser for SMC.
We’re now just $250,000 away from completing our Comprehensive Campaign!
My heart is forever grateful that a place like SMC exists and for people like you, who ensure it will remain for the generations to come.
With a full heart of gratitude,
Whitney Trotta
SMC Development Associate
About Whitney Trotta | SMC Development Associate
Before coming to Shambhala Mountain Center, Whitney lived in Olympia, Washington, where she worked in schools and for a non-profit that served homeless families. She was intrigued by a peaceful life in the mountains, and the idea of living at a meditation retreat center brought her to SMC as a summer volunteer. Whitney now joyfully serves SMC as the Development Associate.