Having a good education is the foundation for future success. The Kleckner Foundation will sponsor scholarships specifically in STEM disciplines for students in the United States and in Japan, including facilitating foreign exchange education opportunities. The Foundation will look to cultivate knowledge and leadership in these areas which will be of benefit to all.
“One of the biggest advantages that I had in moving into my career was not be overexposed or burdened by college expenses. Students need to focus during their time at university on their studies, not looking for ways to simply make ends meet.” — Shawne Kleckner
The Foundation will look to support Soto Zen nonprofits in their efforts to promote American Zen Practice and study.
Donations may be made not only to support the sustainment of practice but also to support the Foundation’s other missions of Japanese-American cultural relations or education, such as speaking or other cultural exchange initiatives.
Dōgen Zenji, the 13th century founder of the Japanese Soto school states in his treatise Shōbōgenzō, “Without losing a moment, devote yourself energetically to pursuing the Way.” 「師に遇うては、万縁を捨て、片時もおろそかにせず、精進して道を学べ。」This underscores the significance of each moment in one’s spiritual journey. When individuals embody the principles of mindfulness, compassion, and awareness in their daily lives, they contribute to the well-being of society, fostering a harmonious and enlightened community.
"My introduction to the Soto Zen practice came to me at an incredibly difficult time in my life. It provided me with a floor to sit on, and a cushion to practice on, and allowed me to be grounded in a way that was sorely needed.” — Shawne Kleckner
As an ancillary goal, the Foundation may look to sponsor events which feature jazz, symphonic, and Japanese cultural music, Scholarships for the study of music in an instrument can be part of the education scholarships in our mission, or for example initiatives which might bring the Japanese and American jazz or music scenes together.
“During my life I have received much joy from the experience of big band and Jazz music. I was surprised to find when in Tokyo, that the Jazz experience has been fully embraced also in Japan. My wife and I both have a deep appreciation for music and feel that the art of music cultivates the creative mind.” — Shawne Kleckner
At its discretion, the Foundation may look at options to serve its community in ways that assist the general public. Examples of this may be addressing basic human needs such as shelter, food, or security. It can also be supporting projects or other nonprofits which may be adjacent to our missions such as programs that can educate the community as a whole, as well as preserving history for following generations.
"Prince Shoutoku, a revered regent of Japan in the early 7th Century once said, 'To
subordinate
private
interests
to
the
public
good
—
that
is
the
path
of
a
vassal.'「私人の欲を公共の為に従わせるは、臣下の道なり」This concept reflects a collectivist ethic, the Japanese concept of wa 「和」, or harmony, prioritizing the welfare of the group, as well as the Confucian ideas of loyalty and filial piety. The concept of working together, understanding one another, and preserving group cohesion over only the pursuit of one's own desires is deeply rooted in Japanese culture. Fostering a collective well being helps to bring people together, and to that end, we need to look after one another. I believe that people cannot succeed if their basic needs simply cannot be met, and sometimes a helping hand can make a true difference so that people can reach the potential that they have inside themselves.” — Shawne Kleckner