LUMBERLAND, NY — The Manjushri Kadampa Buddhist Center has contributed $6,900 to various organizations within the town, it was announced on May 7 at the town meeting.

In an open letter to town officials, the center lauded the town “sincerely for the quality of life and pure and natural environment” it enjoys, adding that the members relish the excellent services provided by the town.

“We are delighted to be part of the community,” the letter said, and “even though we are a non-profit, tax-exempt organization,” the aforementioned services deserve this sizable contribution.

Supervisor Nadia Rajsz said to members in attendance, “I want to thank you very much,” adding that the town values the center and speaking for herself and the community that it’s a pleasure having such a fine center within the town.

The center donated $3,500 to the general fund; $2,000 to the highway department; $1,000 to the constabulary and $400 to the Lumberland Cultural Series.

There are many such centers throughout the world in the organization, which was founded in 1991 by the Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatsoa, a Buddhist monk who was born in a remote village in Tibet.

Many of his teachings have been published in 22 books on Buddhism and meditation. According to those in attendance, the programs provided by the center reveal the entire Buddhist path of compassion and wisdom, leading to enlightenment.

Although the center delves into religious aspects of Buddhism, it also connects problems people face today and societal problems with the methods taught by Buddha.

There are more than 1,100 meditation centers in over 40 countries worldwide. Additionally, Kadampa Hotels and World Peace Cafes have been established for people to learn about the Buddhist religion.