Make a Donation
Please Support Vajrapani Institute
For nearly five decades, Vajrapani Institute has been a beacon of transformation, helping people awaken compassion, wisdom, and peace. Nestled among towering redwoods, it has inspired students of all ages. Teachers such as His Holiness the Dalai Lama, our founders Lama Yeshe and Lama Thubten Zopa, and many extraordinary others have graced and blessed Vajrapani. Thousands of students have gained knowledge and realizations that ripple out into the world.
Lama Yeshe once called Vajrapani a “300-year project.” Your support will help maintain our sacred land, preserve the precious Dharma, and keep Vajrapani a welcoming home for all who seek peace, purpose, and connection.
Your support makes a real and lasting impact.
Support Vajrapani Through Our Wishlist
We’re pleased to share our Vajrapani Institute Wishlist, offering a meaningful way to see your generosity in action. Supporters can purchase items directly needed by different departments throughout the center, helping strengthen daily operations and retreat life in practical ways. Each item has been selected because it would genuinely benefit the work of the center, allowing you to see exactly where your gift is going.
Thank you to the generous donors who have already supported the list. Your kindness makes a real difference.
To view items or make a purchase scan the QR code on the image or click here
Gifts of Stock
What it is: Donate appreciated stocks, bonds, or mutual funds directly to a nonprofit.
Why it’s smart:
- Avoid capital gains tax you’d owe if you sold the stock yourself.
- Receive a charitable tax deduction for the full fair market value.
Example: You purchased stock for $500 that’s now worth $1,500. If you donate the shares, the full $1,500 supports our mission—while you bypass tax on the $1,000 gain.
Donor-Advised Fund (DAF)
What it is: A charitable giving account set up through sponsors like Fidelity Charitable, Schwab Charitable, or a community foundation.
Why it’s smart:
- Contribute now and get an immediate tax deduction.
- Recommend grants to the nonprofit over time.
- Assets in your fund can grow tax-free.
DAFs are ideal if you want to bunch several years’ worth of giving into one deduction year.
Legacy Giving (Bequests in Wills or Living Trusts)
What it is: Leave a lasting impact by naming a nonprofit in your will or trust.
Why it’s smart:
- Costs nothing during your lifetime.
- You retain full control of your assets.
- May reduce estate taxes.
Sample language for your will:
“I give [percentage or dollar amount] of my estate to Vajrapani Institute for Wisdom Culture, a nonprofit organization located at 19950 Kings Creek Road, Boulder Creek, CA 95006, Tax ID #51-0181149.”
Consider naming us in your Living Trust for added flexibility and to avoid probate delays.
Other Ways to Give
Life Insurance
Name a nonprofit as a beneficiary (or owner) of your life insurance policy. A small premium now can mean a significant gift in the future—and potential tax savings today.
Charitable Gift Annuities
Make a gift that pays you back! Receive fixed lifetime income in exchange for your donation. The remainder supports our mission.
Charitable Remainder Trust (CRT)
Set up a trust that pays income to you or loved ones for life (or a set number of years). The remaining assets go to the nonprofit—plus, you may receive an upfront tax deduction.
Gifts of Real Estate
Donate appreciated property to avoid capital gains tax and unlock powerful giving potential—while relieving yourself of the burden of ownership.
Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD)
What it is: If you are aged 70½ or older, you can donate directly from your IRA to a nonprofit—tax-free.
Why it’s smart:
- Satisfies your Required Minimum Distribution (RMD) if you are 73+.
- Not included in your taxable income.
- Donate up to $100,000 per year (per individual).
A great option if you don’t itemize deductions but want to give in a tax-efficient way.
Monthly Donor Support
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Vajrapani Institute for Wisdom Culture is the registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit behind Vajrapani Institute. Donations are tax-deductible as allowed by law.