Newburgh Yoga Shala is entering a new chapter. I, Bibi Lorenzetti, am buying out my business partner to ensure this shala and the seed I planted in 2018 when I started it in my garage, can continue to grow and flourish in the Hudson Valley region that is my home and community.

Once the buy out is complete the Shala will enter a new chapter where community engagement lies at the center of it's 'business plan'. Recruiting like minded people not only to practice, but to engage in our community in a way that benefits all. Yoga is not just Asana, yoga is how we extend our hearts and mindfulness into all aspects of life.

If I am selected for this grant, the funds will cover the cost of establishing and paying for electricity for a community fridge and pantry on the corner of South Street and Grand Street. I will be collaborating with Fairground for the set up of the fridge and with The Ellis Newburgh for the location host. Our Shala community will work in conjunction with Fairground to take care of the fridge and pantry.

I am very excited about what the partnerships this community fridge and pantry will bring to the Shala. An example is our friends at Little Learning Loft, who are excited to partake, as a means to include our children in the task of taking care of those who have less then us.

I envision a future where the power lies in the value of community that this shala has created and sustains. We make the community together.