Yogananda’s Vision for Community in Portland
For over 30 years, the Ananda Portland Community has been a living expression of Paramhansa Yogananda’s dream of “world brotherhood colonies”—spiritual, cooperative communities based on simple living, high thinking, and divine friendship.
Today, we face an unexpected and significant transition. Due to changes in our long-standing property management arrangement, we are no longer managing the property that has been our home for decades. While the situation is evolving, one thing remains unshakable: our commitment to Yogananda’s vision here in Portland.
Whether our path leads us to restore and strengthen our presence at this location, or eventually to create a new expression of community elsewhere, now is the time to gather our energy and resources to ensure that this ideal not only survives—but thrives—for generations to come.
The Yogananda Community Fund
The Yogananda Community Fund (YCF) was launched to prepare for exactly this moment. Its purpose is simple: to provide the resources needed to sustain and grow a spiritual home for Ananda Portland in alignment with our ideals.
The YCF supports both near-term and long-term needs, allowing us to respond wisely to current opportunities while keeping our eyes on the larger vision of community, stability, and service.
Our Temple Remodel Vision (2026)
A significant focus of the Yogananda Community Fund in 2026 will be the Ananda Portland Temple Remodel Project.
Our current kitchen and classroom spaces are very outdated and no longer serve the growing needs of our community. This remodel envisions transforming these areas into a beautiful, functional community kitchen and a welcoming fellowship hall / event space—a true heart of the temple where people can gather for meals, classes, celebrations, service, and spiritual friendship.
This project is about more than construction. It is about building community, strengthening our sangha, and creating a space that supports both inner growth and shared joy. YCF funds will be used (though not necessarily exclusively) to help bring this vision to life.
Why This Matters
Our vision is not tied to a single piece of land—it is rooted in the people, ideals, and spiritual principles that make Ananda Portland what it is. This is about more than property and buildings; it is about sustaining a place where truth-seekers can come together to live, grow, serve, and share in the joy of Self-Realization.
We are committed to moving forward with transparency, cooperation, and dedication to our highest ideals. Your friendship, support, and goodwill are an essential part of this journey.
Be Part of the Next Chapter
🌟 Donate – Contribute to the Yogananda Community Fund to support the future of Ananda Portland, including the Temple Remodel Project.
💬 Connect with Us – Reach out with your questions, ideas, prayers, and encouragement.
Together, we can help usher Yogananda’s vision for spiritual community in Portland into its next chapter.
