Tides Foundation awards KYTA $50,000
for yoga teachers serving diverse populations

In its quest to promote a healthy society, the Tides Foundation has made $50,000 available to KYTA, to be used this year and in 2004. The money will be distributed among members of KYTA and the International Association of Black Yoga Teachers (IABYT) who participate in the Teaching for Diversity program. To be eligible for an award, yoga teachers need to complete the Teaching for Diversity application, available on the Kripalu Web site (see link at the bottom of this article) or by calling Vandita at 413-448-3114.

The Teaching for Diversity program, which supports yoga teachers who work with diverse populations in their communities, is one example of the ways in which Kripalu incorporates its core values of sadhana, sangha, and seva into its daily operations and strategic planning. The program also exemplifies the values of the Tides Foundation (www.tides.org), which believes healthy societies rely fundamentally on respect for human rights, the vitality of communities and a celebration of diversity. For 25 years, this non-profit organization has made significant contributions to positive social change.

In 2002, KYTA members Andrea Soler, Amy Weintraub, Laura Magnussen, Deborah Levine, Bonnie Banks and Lauren Mayhew, and IABYT members Bertha Fountain, Heather Greaves and Thomas Frierson each received a $500 honorarium through the Teaching for Diversity Program. Funds were provided solely by Kripalu Center to support these yoga teachers in their communities and abroad.

Consider joining other yoga teachers who are serving in this way. Think about the rewards of teaching yoga to those suffering from inequities, poverty, or disabilities. Imagine the joyful faces, like those in Laura's class in the photo, and the experiences of deep peace, relaxation, and accomplishment that you could help create.

Each applicant will be eligible for an award of up to $2,000 to offset expenses in delivering classes to diverse populations or purchasing props, materials or resources for these classes. Applications are being accepted now through through April 2004 and all classes must be completed and criteria met no later than September 2004. To be eligible for an award, teachers must:

• Be active members of KYTA or IABYT
• Teach approximately 24 classes to diverse populations such as minority, ethnic and/or those socially or economically challenged
• Provide a letter of acknowledgement from the organizations or institutions where you will be teaching diverse populations
• Provide photos of yoga classes and testimonials from students
• Submit a 1,000-word reflection on your experience.

For more information or an application, click here or call 413-448-3114.