What does it take to build a successful yoga non-profit organization committed to creating positive change in the lives of youth? Relationships and support, says Laura Sygrove, New Leaf Yoga Foundation‘s Executive Director and co-founder. In this video interview, Laura and Roseanne Harvey talk about the roots of New Leaf’s work, our Warriors for Peace fundraising campaign, the challenges and rewards of engaged yoga service work, and the importance of supportive networks.
Warriors are strong and brave, heroes facing the world's greatest problems. Armed with the tools of yoga and meditation, our mission is building peaceful communities from the inside out.
Warriors for Peace is an annual fundraising campaign that was first launched in July 2011. It's goal was to bring a team of warriors together to raise $30,000 in support of New Leaf's projects with youth. Through this 2011-12 campaign, we were able to raise $27,000 through the generosity of yoga studios in Ontario (listed below) and an additional $2000 through the generosity of individuals.
Celebrate International Human Rights Day with Moksha Studios Worldwide!
On December 10th, 1948, with the atrocities of WW2's genocide a recent memory, the UN adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. In the past Moksha studios have lit a candle on Dec 10th as an act of solidarity. This year Moksha studios worldwide will join together in a human rights awareness campaign called Speak your Peace.
There are the many ways you can take part in this amazing global event, and speak your own peace:
• Go to the candle-lit class at a Moksha studio near you on December 10th and bring a donation to support New Leaf Yoga
• Attend a Moksha Yoga Karma Class in December and January: all Karma Funds from all Moksha studios will be donated to New Leaf Yoga
* Visit mokshyoga.ca for full details and for a Moksha studio near you!
A special thanks to Moksha Yoga as a community for your support. Be the change! Speak Your Peace!
We are thrilled to announce that in the spring of 2011 we launched a pilot initiative where youth from our programs have the opportunity to receive longer-term one-on-one support with yoga teachers and practitioners as a part of our youth mentorship program. Several youth are currently taking part and we look forward to continuing to practice and learn with them.
Our goals are to: Support youth in continuing their yoga practice beyond our formal programs
Empower youth to determine what continued practice and support will look like
Connect youth with community members who can serve as positive role models
Expand youth’s experiences by providing access to new opportunities
To contribute to lasting change, we need your help. If you'd like to make a donation of ANY amount to support our mentorship initiative, please click here!
