YMAA Retreat Center Newsletter - Issue #2

November 2007

• Building the Dream - YMAA Retreat Center
• New Donor Program - Sponsor A Student
• Progress Report
• Retreat Center Goals
• Construction Plans
• YMAA California Retreat Center Seminars
• Recent Supporters

Building the Dream - YMAA Retreat Center

YMAA Retreat Center is a new nonprofit training center currently under construction in Humboldt County of Northern California. The property covers 240 acres of land. Chinese martial arts master Dr. Yang, Jwing-Ming will invite a group of exceptional, young martial artists to live and train Tai Chi, Kung Fu, and Qigong everyday at the Retreat Center for 10 years. It is Dr. Yang's sincerest wish that through this project, he will be able to transmit his entire knowledge of the traditional arts to the next generation.

We have already reviewed over 100 applications and preliminary testing has begun. Master Yang will select the semi-finalists in Spring of 2008. Then, we are planning to accept 10-15 finalists as disciples into the 10-year program, which starts in late August 2008.

Meanwhile, all our efforts are currently being concentrated in raising the funds necessary to support these students for the duration of the 10-year project. A new donor program has been created to connect donors with a specific students in the program.

New Donor Program - Sponsor A Student

The Donor program has been organized so that everyone interested in supporting this project can get involved, at the level that's right for you.

More details about each Donor program can be found on the Sponsorship page.

Your donation, no matter what size, is greatly appreciated. In addition, anyone who is able to introduce or connect us to a major donor interested in supporting the arts, please contact us as soon as possible. Our hope is that someone in the community will be able to help connect us with a wealthy benefactor who has the desire to leave a legacy of preserving the arts.

Progress Report

Construction of the main living quarters has been completed! In addition, the following progress has also been made:

• Construction of the smaller cabin lodge has been completed, including a small training area.
• We are now recognized by the state of California as a Nonprofit Educational Facility.
• I-20 Registration (so that we may accept international students) is almost complete.
• Gravel roads were laid down on the property (4-wheel drive is still required.
• Retreat Center can now run entirely "off-the-grid" on solar power with ample sunlight.
• Well water passed quality testing with exceptional results.
• Many applications have been received and Dr. Yang has begun the selection process.
• Several applicants met with Dr Yang and started preliminary testing in California.
• Qi Journal magazine has generously donated free ad space to promote the Retreat Center.
• Inside Kung-Fu magazine published an article on the Center in their September 2007 issue.
• Fundraising has gradually been gaining momentum, but we are still far from our goals. A volunteer fundraising team has been formed, and initial donations have been received.