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About this event:
This interactive workshop is designed to help Buddhist sanghas and organizations explore their individual and collective views around money, while aligning fundraising efforts with core Buddhist values.
Participants will examine the emotional, cultural, and structural factors that shape their relationship to money, gain practical tools for planning successful fundraising campaigns, and build confidence in inviting donations with respect and clarity.
Whether new to fundraising or looking to deepen your approach, this session offers insights and strategies to support a culture of generosity within your community.
Location and schedule:
The event is online-only via Zoom. OPEN TO ALL
August 1, 2025
3:30 pm- 5:00 pm Eastern Time (Click here for a time converter.)
Fees:
The Soto Zen Buddhist Association relies on the generosity of its supporters to offer programming. All fees offered through registration will be shared with speakers and panelists. We suggest a sliding scale registration fee of $10-15 for online participation. No one will be turned away due to lack of funds.
Meet the Speaker:
Thomas Bruner is a longtime Buddhist practitioner and nationally recognized leader in mission-driven work. With decades of experience across the nonprofit, private, and public sectors—including roles as CEO, Vice President of the American Red Cross, and 23-year practitioner and member of Dharma Rain—he has helped communities mobilize around compassion, equity, and collective well-being. His leadership is grounded in both professional excellence and spiritual commitment.
Thomas holds a master’s degree in clinical psychology and a Diversity Management Certificate from Cornell University. He is known for his dynamic presence, deep integrity, and passion for human connection. A lifelong learner and part-time Mexico resident, he brings warmth, optimism, and cross-cultural insight to every space he enters.
Whether offering strategic guidance or Dharma-informed dialogue, Thomas is devoted to helping individuals and communities thrive—inside and out.
The SZBA 2025 event series, Actualizing and Sustaining Healthy Zen Communities, is generously funded by his event is generously funded by the Hemera Foundation.
