About Membership
Sustaining Membership is an expression of commitment to the continued life and development of our Zen Center and our community.​
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Those wishing to become a member or to renew their commitment of support are asked to submit the pledge form above (or mail the paper pledge form available below). There is no set pledge amount.
Membership is encouraged for all who participate on an ongoing basis, as well as those who simply would like to help make possible the continue existence of the Center.​
Deep appreciation to all our members.
Sangha is a term used in the Buddhist tradition to refer to a community of people gathered together to practice Dharma, the way of truth and wholeness. Participation in the Compassionate Ocean Sangha is open to everyone who wishes to come together for this purpose. Being a Sustaining Member is not required to be part of the Sangha.
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Sustaining Members provide the bedrock of support for our Center. Membership is the largest source of contributions to the Center, providing about one-third of our total financial support. The donations of Sustaining Members help support our teachers, Joen and Michael; administrative staff; program expenses; and building expenses. The Center depends on dedicated supporters to sustain our financial health.
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Sustaining Members are part of our governing structure. All members who pledge on or before September 30 and whose membership is paid in full are eligible to elect members to the Board of Directors at the Annual Meeting.
Members also receive discounts on some program fees.
​Checks payable to Compassionate Ocean can be mailed to:
Compassionate Ocean Zen Center
652 17th Avenue NE
Minneapolis, MN 55413
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Compassionate Ocean is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. All donations are tax-deductible as allowed by law.​