Donors Collective has launched ‘Adwait,’ an initiative rooted in Vedanta philosophy to help temples lead environmental change by reducing single-use plastics.
Donors Collective, a prominent philanthropic platform focusing on faith-based sustainability, has introduced ‘Adwait,’ an initiative inspired by the philosophy of non-duality, or Advaita, from Vedanta. The initiative emphasizes the interconnectedness of all existence, promoting the idea that environmental conservation is intrinsically linked with service to humanity. By centering ‘Adwait’ around this core principle, Donors Collective highlights the need for harmony between human actions and the natural environment.
With approximately 350,000 religious congregations in the United States, many of which host large weekly community events, faith-based institutions contribute significantly to the generation of single-use plastic waste. It is estimated that such institutions contribute thousands of tons of plastic waste to landfills each year through the use of plastic plates, cups, water bottles, and cutlery.
The ‘Adwait’ initiative addresses this issue by aiding temples in the transition from single-use plastics to reusable, durable alternatives such as steel glasses and plates. In its initial phase, Adwait will provide matching donations to temples that phase out PET water bottles, plastic cups, and disposable food containers, including those with plastic linings.
“We have seen how temples can inspire not just spiritual growth but broader societal transformation,” said Pankaj Sharma, Chief Donor Officer at Donors Collective. “Adwait teaches us that everything is interconnected—our daily choices have implications for the entire web of life. Through this initiative, we invite faith communities to lead by example and become beacons of sustainability and environmental responsibility.”
Beyond offering matching funds for eco-friendly alternatives, Donors Collective is expanding support for temples with a variety of services, including:
Specialized Fundraising Support: Providing expert guidance to design and execute campaigns targeted at environmentally conscious donors.
Counseling and Strategic Guidance: Offering personalized advice to integrate sustainability into various facets of temple operations.
Enhanced Community Outreach: Supplying tools and training to increase engagement, raise awareness, and encourage grassroots environmental action.
Long-Term Impact Planning: Assisting in the conceptualization and scaling of projects that provide enduring environmental, social, and spiritual benefits.
“Faith-based organizations are central to American life and possess a remarkable capacity to effect positive change,” Mr. Sharma added. “Adwait is an opportunity to extend the influence of temples beyond their walls, steering communities towards a more harmonious, sustainable future.”
Donors Collective ensures that all funds allocated through the Adwait initiative are directed towards faith-based organizations that adhere to high standards of transparency, accountability, and demonstrable results.
Donors Collective invites individuals, organizations, and faith leaders to join this crucial movement. To contribute or learn more about the Adwait initiative, visit its official website.
Dedicated to fostering impactful and transparent philanthropy, Donors Collective empowers faith-driven organizations to champion sustainability, community engagement, and lasting positive change.