Construction of Goloka, the ashram’s new residence
building, is progressing quickly. The building started
25 years ago as a barn, giving the cows living there
the best view of anywhere in the ashram. This fall, the
decision was made to convert the barn into a new, energy
efficient residence and guest accommodation facility.
The building inspector okayed the concept, two builders
were hired, and several Young Adult program karma yogi’s
have committed themselves to the project. According to
Charles Green, the resident overseeing the project, it’s
a full-time job just to keep ahead of the enthusiastic
builders. Charlie Edmonds, one of the Young Adult interns on
the job described it as a “…huge learning
experience…and a great priviledge.”
Goloka is a building with the future in mind. Estimated
cost is around $300,000, including an upgraded waste disposal
system that will serve 80% of the Ashram’s needs
for many years to come. The building incorporates in-ground
geothermal heating plus solar assisted hot water heating
for baths and showers. Siding will be a new type of concrete
board with zero maintenance, and inside the flooring throughout
will be a combination of tile and bamboo hardwood, a sustainable,
easily regenerated natural material.
Swami Gopalananda, Ashram Treasurer, says that we need
an additional $200,000 to complete the Goloka project. “People
are being very generous,”
he says, “but we still have a way to go.”
If you would like to donate, click below to download a
pledge form. Or call the Ashram at 800-661-8711. Either
way, you’ll be taking a positive step to the future.
Download pledge form |
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Goloka crew |
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Measuring
up the plumbing |
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Upper floor
rooms framed in |
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Installing
the insulated floor downstairs |
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