q1 the grail at grailville committee is proposing the...

G@GV Needs Assessment Summary 2 September 2016 P a g e | 1

Q1 The Grail at Grailville Committee is proposing the following vision and mission statement for the

future of a National Grail Center/Presence at Grailville.

Vision: We are a Grail Center working to ignite the spiritual life of women in order to transform the

world.

Mission: As a center of the National Grail we are dedicated to fostering a Grail-based community that

kindles the spiritual life of women locally, nationally, and internationally. Our primary focus is

cultivating the connection between land, spirit, peace, and justice.

Answered: 25 Skipped: 6

Positive / Yes Negative / No Total Respondents

Do you have a positive or negative reaction to these statements? Please explain in the space below.

46.43%

13 53.57%

15

28 Can you support this statement? Please give reasons in the space below. 53.85%

14 46.15%

12

26 # Other insights: 1 I am not ready to change our US mission and vision statements. I don't think we should tie/limit our mission and vision or the center of the US

Grail to a relationship with a particular piece of land.

2 It fits with the work we are doing. 3 of course I like these, but wish we could be including something that indicates the arts and culture. I know these are in a sense “means” to these

other great goals, but the The Grail has been neglecting them in these past decades so

they need to be emphasized again. It seems important to keep a spotlight on them in our planning. The wholesale clearing of our houses

starting at the end of June 2015, seemed to put the emphasis on so many other values, and devaluing the arts seems one of the dimensions

that has led to the problems we have seen these past 2 years.

4 I support it because this is what the Grail in the USA needs. I hadn't answered in this space before and this maybe should be part of an answer

below but........... I think having a space where people can drop in and meet Grail members, get info about our caring for the earth, get info about

walks the trails, etc. I could see Grail members from other countries being part of the 'staff' of such a place. and a spiritual space is so

needed.....and to be able to be with other women who will share their spiritual journey is so important.

5 It is difficult to answer with just the choice of yes or no. The statements are hard to disagree with because they are

too general. Transformation of the world in what sense? People who are spiritually motivated often undermine justice. What is missing is the

inclusion of a "how". Is this going to happen through education? advocacy? consciousness raising? land centered experimentation, experiential

learning? ritual creation and celebration? transformation through the arts? The focus of connection is to what end? the personal enrichment of

women? developing their skills and motivation to work for environmental change or leadership for those most impacted by injustice?

6 How does this differ from any current or past vision & mission statements? without knowing this I cannot respond Has the Council reviewed this?

7 First of all, this is not a “needs assessment.” A needs assessment uses open ended questions: “If you were determining the future of the Grail at

Grailville, what would you want the mission to be? the program? the staffing and process for securing funds? It would not ask the respondent to

answer “yes” or “no” to already determined answers to these questions. My reason for saying “no” to this Vision Statement is that it is too vague. I

have no idea what it means. The specific Mission is even less clear. In contrast to the National Vision, which speaks to specific actions (building

bridges in the context of diversity, advancing peace in the context of military dominance, fostering exchange and solidarity, challenging

oppressive systems, creating sustainable communities, celebrating the arts as a means for transformation), this one offers nice words with which

no one could disagree, like “God, Country and Apple Pie”, with no reference to the actual problems it will address.

8 While it is logical that GV's work have some land focus, that is not a primary interest to me personally. I would like to see the Grail around GV

have more of a mission to serve women and to serve the poor or those in need of justice.

9 I did not see this peace & justice mission evidenced in the process of the recent vote. Therefore I do not, at this time, believe it can be embodied

by those who are presently active there.

10 After a cursory glance one might have a positive reaction to these statements, but strong Vision and Mission statements contain certain elements

that are lacking here. See "Topnonprofits.com" for examples and guidelines for great vision and mission statements. The Vision statement should

describe our end-game, what we hope to accomplish, for example, "A cancer-free world" or "One day all children in this nation will have the

opportunity to attain an excellent education" (Teach Free America). I don't know what "ignite the spiritual life of women" or "transform the world"

mean in terms of the goal we want to accomplish. The wording is too vague. The same is true for the Mission statement. "Kindles" is not a

concrete action verb. Where is the why? Who do we serve? Is our mission to enrich the spiritual lives of all women? Or is the goal to inspire all

women to take some sort of action? A good example of a mission statement is "We're a non-profit bringing clean, safe drinking water to people in

developing countries." It identifies the problem (water), the action (bringing), and who is served (people in developing countries). The US Grail

has this same problem - we recognize the kind of work we want to promote -- building bridges, etc., but we don't have a mission statement that

clearly states what the US Grail is about. This causes confusion as to where we should spend our resources and is too vague to inspire potential

donors.

11 My thought is that this is not an open-ended statement. The Vision and Mission are already set....and now it is a yes or no answer. I do like most

of this statement but have trouble with "our primary goal is cultivating....etc. This statement remains in the hope and the thought areas of our


thinking. I am more interested in direct plans and tasks that can be implemented even this year or at least in 2017.

12 I have no comments to add. I am still catching up and trying to keep up with the present. 13 We do not need 300 acres to do this. 14 The Grail and Grailville are much more than the land and ecology. 15 This reflects only the vision of one small group at the Visioning Day, most of whom were part of the Homeplace. What happened to all the rest of

the ideas? Why is this question not more open-ended? I cannot affirm this as is.

16 Our vision of the National Grail at Grailville is yes, based on the international vision, but needs to be rooted in the US reality at this time. What are

the key focus points that we as Grail in the USA now need to address? Is it xenophobia or fear of other religions, building barriers between

peoples or building bridges between peoples? Is it the continued racism and violence in our society? Is it the building up of women’s leadership for

the purpose of addressing the above? The Grail is first and foremost about people and women’s leadership that addresses deeply felt fears and

hopes. A survey of members to tap into those deeply felt fears and hopes need to be explored before moving forward. Mission. The mission of an

organization or a program needs to be how this program will be the agent to address or carry out the vision. In this mission statement it says

“foster a Grail-based community…” Does that mean Grail women living on the property over the next 5 years? Are these women who have built

and implemented financially and cutting edge programs that address these issues? This statement is much too general and one could focus on

anything.

17 There is no financial basis or plan . Nice dream goals but why has this not happened in the past 20 years? I find the time has passed and I see

no leadership that can support this and I am not interested in supporting it either.

18 Because I have these reservations, I am going as I have. Reservations: (i) There is need to define key terms early in the game. Key terms like:

spiritual and maybe land While spirituality/spirit does not mean religion, it immediately evokes this meaning and for some, this meaning is the only

one they think is correct. So in the vision which I like, I subscribe to the use of the word "spiritual" because this encompasses everything---

physical, psychological, social, spiritual and intellectual. The philosopher states that everything else is just the essence of the element; we mortal

are incapable of experiencing the "real thing", but only its essence. So let us make it clear from the offset. (ii) The mission: please replace the

word' Land" (this word is on our mind) with the word "environment". (iii) "are dedicated to fostering " while "to fostering" is politically correct,

grammatically it is not. "to foster" or "to the fostering of.." is grammatically correct.

19 I do not see how we are going to be able to sustain Grailville. I do not plan to travel there anymore given my age and current life responsibilities.

I believe we missed an important opportunity in the Grail.

20 I think our focus needs to continue to be on the GRAIL not just the Grail at Grailville. I worry that those who live locally think of it as theirs and not

the Grails. I think these statements leave many questions, and need clarifying. How will Grailville be a part of the International Grail? I don't know

how we are going to accomplish the mission statement.

21 The sentences are all sensible and useful.. How they can be activated and made real is another problem. 22 I am looking for a plane for Grailville that is much more concrete/focus than the mission of the Grail. There is nothing here that suggests a focus

of work that will take place.

23 Grailville land, facilities and history are ideally suited to bring forth Grail mission work which relates to the power of the land to both heal and feed

us.

Q2 Our overall goal is to create a sustainable Grail Center where a deep spiritual life and

commitment to transformative action in the world is made manifest. Our proposed goals for the

Center include:

a) Creating support for women’s spiritual growth and leadership; b) Supporting sustainable and

holistic land- based care for the earth;

c) Providing living, learning, teaching and leading in connecting land, spirit, peace, and justice; and

d) Honoring the beauty of the land and buildings at Grailville in order to invite members, friends,

supporters, benefactors, national and international guests.


Agree / Yes Disagree / No Total

Do you agree/disagree with these goals? Please explain. 46.15%

12 53.85%

14

26 Would you suggest other goals? Please explain. 43.75%

7 56.25%

9

16 # Please explain your response here: 1 I am more interested in a sustainable Grail than a sustainable Grail Center. 2 Please see my answer to number 1, Grailville is such a great place for these other dimensions as well as to foster the arts.

3 Nothing much to say...these goals say very well what I believe in. And, I believe this is what we should be about. 4 c) This seems like it is missing some words or needs to be reworked grammatically and with some ultimate value intention d) I don't think the


goal is "honoring". It may be preserving and sustaining the beauty of our buildings and lands in order to provide our friends, .... with a space

for nourishment, healing, etc.

5 Has this been discussed with the Council? Why should this succeed now when it has not succeeded in the past? 6 Again, there's really nothing in these words, which one could disagree. However, there is also not enough substance to know what is actually

being planned, so it is also impossible to agree. As we know, there are those who define justice as cutting taxes on the rich, and cutting Medicaid

for the poor. So those good words need to be concretized before I can support it. How will this be done and by whom? Do you anticipate that

Grail members will live at the Center? What Grail members have expressed an interest in doing so? In what ways would their commitment to

transformative action in the world be manifest at the center? Who can oppose support for women or care for the earth, or honoring the

beauty of the land. But how will this be done? A goal needs to say something like “We will develop a program for women focused on x and led by

y staff people who have these credentials, with funding from z sources whose funding guidelines are precisely in this area. Otherwise, I couldn't

commit my time or money

7 I think that GV has a great deal of work to do to be put to productive use and to make it financially sustainable. I don't find the buildings (with the

exception of the Oratory) especially beautiful. I would love to see more focus on women's leadership and making GV a vibrant and active place. I

would like it to be far less "white" than it is today, and help us to model a more loving, integrated society.

8 I do not see how your stated goals are possible with the limited staff and financial resources presently available in the Grail and I would not

support advancing any more resources to Grailville at this time. My suggestion is to use the endowment to support the rebuilding of the Grailville

spiritual community. You should meditate and pray and reflect for a year and ask for the Spirit to guide you in the simple and realistic ways in

which Grailville can make a contribution to the future of the US Grail, in ways that do not drain our resources.

9 It is very difficult to answer 'yes' or 'no' to any of these survey questions. They incorporate all the typical Grail vocabulary, so they sound lovely,

but they are extremely vague and broad. What are the goals actually saying? For example, "creating support for spiritual growth" -- we help each

other grow (or should) in our regional meetings held in member homes, we don't need to maintain land and buildings to do that. We talk about

transforming the world all the time, and points A through D describe what we've been trying to do at GV for the past 20-30 years. What is different

this time? What concrete actions are you proposing? You propose inviting guests to do what exactly?

10 Dear All, Again these are statements not asking us our thoughts and open ended questions. My response: --Will organic plus sustainable methods

be used for both the animals, hens, cows and land?? ...I would like all of it to be organic even if it is not certified organic. --How much and how

often, will programs be provided. Is it one day here and there or are they sustaining programs...like training for transformation...etc, --What are the

goals in numbers of women attending? What can we handle, what is cost effective.... --Are we reaching out to women of color, to women living in

poverty...How will that become part of our plans --Will UN Plans/goals for women around the world be part of the planning? --How will the

outreach be with Grail women in Latin America, Cuba, or Africa?

11 Do you even need the Oratory to do these? Are these goals? 12 Again, overemphasis on the land. Go back to total vision of the Grail. 13 I think this needs incorporation of other ideas from a broader group. 14 . Goals are always measureable. For instance a. Support for women’s spiritual growth and leadership. The goal statement for example would be

to hold 6 long weekend women’s leadership programs focussed on x, y. and z with a minimum of 30 participants. Or a 3-week winter break

international women’s program with participants from the global south and north to explore x, y, or z with 15 women from the global south and 15

women from the global north. b.

What is the goal to support sustainable land-based care of the earth – this is not a goal of a program c. Again – what kind of programs, who will

staff and who are the ‘target groups’ you expect to reach and from where? d. Honoring the beauty...this is not a goal – this is a value.

15 What buildings Pneuma and Tidings ? 16 This statement doesn’t give enough substance for me to know what is actually being planned. As we know, there are those who define justice as

cutting taxes on the rich, and cutting Medicaid for the poor. So those good words need to be concretized before I can support it. How will this be

done and by whom? Do you anticipate that Grail members will live at the Center? What Grail members have expressed an interest in doing so? In

what ways would their commitment to transformative action in the world be manifest at the center? Who can oppose support for women or care for

the earth, or honoring the beauty of the land. But how will this be done? A goal needs to say something like “We will develop a program for

women focused on x and led by y staff people who have these credentials, with funding from z sources whose funding guidelines are precisely in

this area. Otherwise, I couldn't commit my time or money.

17 I agree with all of this, assuming that it pertains to a smaller footprint on the north side of O'Bannonville Road. 18 Following under these goals I can see actions like year round activities of woman living on the land and experiencing opportunities to learn how

to live and inspire appreciation for the environment, spirit, peace and justice. I will love to volunteer (paid/unpaid depending on the duration of

time) to see the Center come alive in the way I would like and I think others will like.

19 My comments above are applicable here. I do not see how we can go on supporting Grailville. I sincerely hope that First Step Home is not now

out of the picture.

20 How much land do we need to do this. 21 See above. 22 These goals are so general that I cannot tell what you actually recommend doing. I do not see how they are much different from the goals that

Grailville has had for many years and that have not generated sustaining income over the past decade. I don't see how these goals will change

the situation from an declining Grailville to anything that will

work. I do not have big goals for Grailville. I want to see as small a footprint as possible with actual manageable goals. But I am not going to leave


my family to come do whatever in Ohio. And I am not going to support fantasy general programs that we have already tried and failed to sustain

for years and years.

23 Getting rid of the "Hub" is still good idea. I can support the rest of the above statements. 24 I like these goals. They all can work well as an interwoven whole in many ways. We have a good start on many of the key parts of the work.

Q3 What do you see as important for the future of Grailville, keeping in mind our sustainable, smaller

footprint and an effective mission? Answered: 28 Skipped: 5

# Responses 1 We need to be very clear and focused on our vision & mission on a very much smaller piece of land w/a fully staffed National Office w/ Nat'l

admin & program staff w/ reliable long term income sources.

2 To not be afraid of the future, and be aware of our amazing location, likely to be much more sustainable than most others in this country and in

the world. HANG IN THERE AND IT WILL BECOME CLEARER AND I HOPE THOSE VOTING TO SELL WILL BE GLAD WE DID NOT.

3 The Grail needs a space where it is visible. We need buildings/houses/space for people to live in community, for programs that bring in new

young women, to work for the sustainability of the earth. It is such a beautiful treasure we have...that needs to be shared.

4 Using the resources at hand to serve more vulnerable populations e.g. bringing those from the city out to GV for experiences in arts, healing,

land care by collaborating with agencies serving those populations - invitations to younger women to explore short term residential experiences

to discern their life path and connect with peers to grow

leadership rooted in a spiritual foundation. - develop opportunities for exploration of arts as a means for transformation

Institutes for cutting edge thinking in consciousness development, peace work, racial justice etc. - A paid staff program team of local and national

Grail members to develop and promote program tracts - exploration of cooperative use of small farm garden parcels for local low income women

who want to learn how to grow their own food.

5 That everything MUST be funneled through the Council and the National Grail. A MUCH smaller footprint is needed. We should not be supporting

the current CSA and neighbors with leases that are very low and do not contribute to the Grail in a major way. These groups/individuals have

dictated what they want and gotten it because of throwing tantrums-- instead of the other way around.

6 A definition of "smaller footprint" 7 3. What do you mean by “our sustainable, smaller footprint”? What is that footprint, exactly, and what is meant by sustainable – sustainable

by whom and for whom and for what "effective mission?

8 I think the footprint is still too big to be sustainable. Who among the current Grail members is going to actually farm? 9 Focus attention on the north side and create a vision for work based on local Grail members planning and implementing it on a

volunteer/subsistence basis. How can I keep in mind your sustainable, smaller footprint and an effective mission when I see no evidence of

these things at this time?

10 That GV not be a financial drain on the US Grail. - That GV be a resource for the US Grail in accomplishing its mission and goals. - that we

realistically assess the use of land and buildings in light of our current demographics. The member survey done two years ago indicated that only

a couple of members were willing to dedicate a few hours each week or each month at GV. We cannot base a plan for GV on a couple of people

willing to live on the property for a couple of weeks each year. - there has to be a business plan. You can find a simple format at SCORE.org -

Members have to be passionate about whatever activities are planned for GV, passionate enough to donate to support the work.

Market research needs to be conducted to determine whether the work or programs contemplated for GV are needed and wanted by the target

audience. We may want to "kindle the spiritual life of women" (whatever that means) but what would that entail? Do other organizations already

do that kind of work? If so, how are we different? How would we charge? How many women would be willing to pay to come?

11 Healthcare for All/Single payer... -Overturning Citizens United -Climate Change & Campaign Finance Reform 12 Who is going to do the work? 13 How is any of this a smaller footprint and how is it sustainable? 14 Visibility to reach out and reach more women and men and families. 15 smaller footprint on the north side only 16 I think it needs a vision that can be supported by the wider Grail group locally, inside a vision supported by national. That does not exist now.

17 do you mean smaller footprint on the north side only? I assume so. Honoring the beauty... – this is not a goal – this is a value. Future of Grailville

– see above smaller footprint on the North side.

18 I don't see an effective mission. 19 What do you mean by “our sustainable, smaller footprint”? What is that footprint, exactly, and what is meant by sustainable – sustainable

by whom and for whom and for what "effective mission?"

20 Support by Cincinnati area Grail members in the form of a lot more additional time, creative talent and roll-up-the- sleeves energy.

21 How much smaller is our footprint?? Being in the lives of people all year round with the Grail's personal input along with its other stakeholders.

The Grail needs to have their imprint on Grail projects/activities coupled with the many stakeholders we have.


22 What smaller footprint? We still have it all. 23 we need to include many women from all parts of the Grail to ask what can we do that will help us accomplish our goals.

24 community of women 25 Keeping the Oratory, cemetery, and dwelling places for Mary Lu Lageman and Terry Marshall as long as they need them at Grailville. I think that

at least one national meeting is important for continuing the Grail mission; also, the local "circles" are vital.

26 A much smaller footprint -- I thought the original recommendation of the Grailville future committee to sell all of the south side and most of the

north side and only keep 10-15 acres was a good good good idea!

27 the earth/land connection = top of the list. 28 Involving more people, both Grail members and people from the wider community (local and global) who either share or would benefit from

sharing our values.

Q4 Do you see the exploration of connections between land, faith, peace, and justice as a central

Grail work? Answered: 28 Skipped: 5

Answer Choices Responses

Yes 58.62% 17

No 41.38% 12

Total 29 # Please Comment: 1 See number 1 This Holistic, organic, integrated approach not weighted first by a financial cost/benefit analysis was key to our Grailville Charism in

the past. So many in every generation are looking for this whole way of life. That we were trying to do this, integrating everything, is also why

someone like Dorothy Day would send certain women to us, Jane O'Donnell, Monica Cornell and others. Although the Catholic worker had a

different focus, there was tremendous respect and actually a similar value system. The Catholic worker put it in terms of Cult, Culture, Christianity

which included a strong Catholic liturgy, (where Cult is a positive word), agriculture (basic manual labor) and the arts were honored. the Catholic

worker had their farm, and specialized in strong, lovely black and white images that always graced their newspaper, within a charism of the works of

mercy. Grailville's organizational system of Guilds express the same values perhaps in different proportions plus the international global approach.

We had agriculture, kitchen, laundry, music, writing, weaving and Art guilds. Because we had a community of about 60 during the year, diversity

was possible. Everyone did not have to all the time be involved with the basic struggle to eat and survive.

2 This cannot be assumed but needs to be made explicit in content, methodology and articulation of intended outcomes so progress can be

determined and efforts evaluated

3 I have checked "no" because I don’t know enough to check "yes". I have no idea what that statements means. My experience is that most Grail

women are fully engaged in work outside of Grailville, and most of us are too busy and/or old to commit the time required to develop and implement

a program to explore these connections. These are nice words. Who can oppose connections between land, faith, peace and justice? But what do

they mean, exactly, at Grailville, at this time in history, and how, exactly, would they promote the international and transformation commitments of

the Grail? If what you’re asking is whether or not I support continuing the current activities and involving more non-Grail people to use the land with

minimal Grail input as a central work of the Grail, the answer is “no”.

4 Yes, but I think LAND is the least important of these four and so far it seems to have been given priority. I could happily remove land from the group

and it would be just as meaningful to me, if we have some programs and activities that center on economic and social justice. If we lease space to

a non-profit CSA, I would like the CSA to make a priority of growing food for poor people, not well-off white people who seem to be the main

consumers today.

5 But that is not an affirmation for any efforts related to the south side of Grailville, nor any attempts to create overblown missions that cannot be

accomplished without draining national grail resources.

6 I'm not clear on what "exploration of connections" means. for example, when you mention land, if you mean promote environmental sustainability

in the community - yes, I see that as Grail work. If you mean we as Grail need to own land and be farming ourselves, than no. Our current

member demographics do not support a land-based program.

7 The Answer no. The reason is...sweat equity/barter system can still work, but then we need to go back to what the Grail has done years ago!! We

know what that is like. We do not need to be the leaders in that now. Young people all around us are choosing to live in community and are finding

their way. Sure some Grail members could serve as advisors, but I do not think "the world" needs us to do that. It is happening on its own. We can

certainly support that kind of happening elsewhere. Instead I see that our Grail capabilities lie in: -Programing...ie Training for Transformation in the

US -Spirituality work' -Poetry, arts, music and song -Communnal experiences -supporting those who in their professional lives are doing

Grail Mission work by partnering with other groups -Provide...R&R for each other...and stimulating programs -Providing GA gatherings and timely

retreats -Those who love the land, to work it and share their knowledge and love of that work with Grail & others

8 I have an idea that we talk about more or less similar understanding when talking about peace and justice, also about land; it is more difficult to

know what we mean with faith.

9 I do not see the need for owning land to do ecological work. Some area on the north side might be helpful depending on the demand for programs

developed


10 It is not antithetical to Grail work, but it certainly is not central. If it were, it would be reflected in the work of the Grail in other countries.

11 Connections between land, faith, peace and justice. Too vague. Again, peace and justice can mean anything to anyone. These need to be

named specifically by the national membership, not by a small group in Loveland.

12 Of course these are so broad you can drive a truck through them 13 I don’t know. I have no idea what that means. My experience is that most Grail women are fully engaged in work outside of Grailville, and most of

us are too busy and/or old to commit the time required to develop and implement a program to explore these connections. These are nice words.

Who can oppose connections between land, faith, peace and justice? But what do they mean, exactly, at Grailville, at this time in history, and

how, exactly, would they promote the international and transformation commitments of the Grail? If what you’re asking is whether or not I support

continuing the current activities and involving more non-Grail people to use the land with minimal Grail input as a central work of the Grail, the

answer is “no”.

14 Without a doubt. 15 but how? 16 Can't say yes, can't say no. I do not thing the Grail should be farming land and if I understand correctly that is a big interest of the committee -- so

no I am not in favor of farming as a way to connect land,faith, peace, and justice. Also in this list of areas to explore I do not see any mention of

women and women's potential which is an essential element of the Grail mission.

17 the faith part has always mystified me.... the rest is good. 18 Gaia is a huge constant for everyone and everything. Working toward harmony with the Earth enhances spirituality, and promotes peace and

justice.

Q5 The centerpiece of our focus is the Oratory including All Saints Hall (lower level), with necessary

renovations to accommodate local community outreach, national and international Grail activities.


Strongly Disagree - 1 2 3 4 Strongly Agree - 5 Total Weighted Average

(no label) 31.03%

9 10.34%

3 13.79%

4 13.79%

4 31.03%

9

29

3.03 # Other Comments: 1 My only modest agreement is because I feel we need to have a strong Much bigger plan and budget tentatively planned. It would be very helpful to

my own thinking to know if Bloomfield Schon is going to back out of the Hub, and if they still go ahead that our intended deal with 1st Step Homes

is included air tight in our agreement, so they cannot just pull out later for some reason or other, claiming something like we can't get Loveland

approval, and then feel free to develop expensive residential housing on that magnificent site. If that should happen and we get back

responsibilities to find other uses for our buildings, I believe we can. This would indeed change how we go ahead with the oratory. Thus, everything

I think about the oratory basement, is contingent on almost everything else, including the future of Pneuma and Tidings and the Hub.

2 This is sacred space....the faith of our ancestors can be felt as we come into this space. Very real, deep prayer has happened there....and I pray

will continue.

3 The Oratory exists within a large agricultural parcel. An equal amount of intention needs to go into why we are holding it and how it will be

maintained in the context of the vision and mission for Grailville. I agree that the Oratory will be sustainable if renovated, developed and promoted

as a multi-purpose center for celebration, education, arts and community building activities. I would support high quality renovations, not just quick

fixes, so that it is a highly desirable landmark building for the Grail and the community.

4 Form follows function. If/when there are Grail people who are committed to staffing and overseeing viable programs (that is, programs

demonstrated to be of interest to significant numbers of people outside of Loveland) that need the space you are describing, this will be a great

idea. However, in the absence of such programs or minimum specific plans for and Grail staffing available to run them, renovating the buildings is

nothing more than spending very limited resources on shoring up monuments to our past.

5 Buildings need to be maintained, but I would like primary focus on programs and less on buildings. 6 I would support this only if additional resources--financial and staff--are not being used for efforts on the south side. And only if it does not

require staff with salaries.

7 If we hope to transform the world, I don't think our focus should be on a building. I would not invest in the

maintenance or renovations of the Oratory, other than that necessary to maintain the structural integrity of the building, until we have proof that the

demand for the space for "community outreach and national and international Grail activities" actually exists. This requires market research to

determine whether our programming ideas will attract an audience and pay for themselves. In addition, it may be more economical to house

programs off-site, for example, at the Jesuit Center so that we don't have to pay for maintenance, insurance, and building management. Once your

programming ideas gain traction, then we can consider investing in the rehab of the building. Even with renovations, I'm not convinced the LL of the

Oratory would be an appealing place to accommodate community activities given the alternatives available.

8 Again not an open ended question: Open ended might be: How do you see us using the oratory in 2017 and in the future??... I think the

Oratory is one piece among many pieces at Grailville. I see no need to single it out. When it needs repair, we need to give it repair work. When

plans are detailed and completed for year 2017, then it is time enough to see how the Oratory fits into that picture, as well as other buildings


(four) that can be used.

9 Let us see what programs you are able to develop in the next year. 10 I really object to the use of the name" All Saints Hall." I have been in the Grail for 50 years and had never heard it called that until recently. I

think it harks back to a day when the Grail was exclusively Catholic, celebrating Catholic culture, even in the naming of spaces. it is not reflective

of the Grail today....... I really object to our spending any money on the renovation of the Oratory basement. What we need is a space we would

not be embarrassed about inviting new people to. That space worked 50-60 years ago. it will not work today. We can only claim the Oratory as

our focus once we start praying together.

11 No, as in architecture, form follows function. In our case, any renovations need to be based on the program needs.

The programs that are developed in the initial pilot stage over a 2-3 year period and found successful, then what renovations or expansions can be

considered [given funding found for such renovations]. You start with what you have in terms of buildings and land. For example, offices can be in

Tidings or Pneuma. Residential participants can be housed in the Ark, Tidings and/or Pneuma. Programs need to have a track record, with strong

and competent leadership in place, to show output or success. Then new spaces and places can be motivated for, with the need being very clear

for such costs. This could be white elephants.

12 Don't think this is realistic given the structure of the barn 13 Form follows function. If/when there are Grail people who are committed to staffing and overseeing viable programs that need the space you are

describing , this will be a great idea. However, in the absence of such programs or minimum specific plans for and Grail staffing available to run

them, renovating the buildings is nothing more than spending very limited resources on shoring up monuments to our past.

14 I don't see the Oratory as a central focus, but as a good venue for a central focus. 15 donot fix what is not broken we have been using the oratory as is over the years what are the plans that call for renovations do we have the

facility of funds for this activity i am naive on this projection

16 Don't approve renovating anything until you have a clear sustainable program that needs particular renovations. I love the Oratory, but renovating it

and making it more accessible is foolish if the uses are prayer twice a week and an occasional feast day celebration. That is a poor use of a

building and not good for the building. In addition it is ridiculously expensive for such limited use. First tell us what you want to do with the building,

then it is possible to consider what renovation is needed and why.

17 Yes, as far as buildings go, but I think the land is just as important to care for, improve and be involved with.

Q6 Establishment of a small Grail Heritage Center, possibly in the Oratory’s All Saints Hall, as a

way of sharing our rich heritage and inviting and nurturing new contacts.


Strongly Disagree - 1 2 3 4 Strongly Agree - 5

Total Weighted Average

(no label) 20.69%

6 6.90%

2 31.03%

9 13.79%

4 27.59%

8

29

3.21 # Other Comments 1 If we are going to be at GV we need some kind of viable, self-sustainable program or presence that is alive. Didn't our archives go to Notre

Dame? I think to have a presence we would need some kind of live-in program staff.

2 see comment number 5. Of course I'm enthusiastic about preserving and exhibiting and encouraging the arts and our heritage right at Grailville,

and not in the Notre Dame archives only.

3 Where we came from is important. And sharing the lives and work of our elders/ ancestors in the Grail is so important. Every time I show the

video Inspired Lives and others on the Grail, women--especially young women--are inspired and challenged. We need a space and place to

continue you this. The Dominicans of Blauvelt and Maryknoll Brothers and fathers have a space that preserves the groups' heritage. It's a very

good idea.

4 This would be a good idea once we have some concrete sense that there will actually be programs based on specific plans for implementation

and people with enthusiastic participation to host such a place. Before then, I can only support it minimally in the hope that resources to

accomplish what is suggested here will be identified.

5 I am not opposed to a Heritage Center, but I think the best way to nurture new contacts is to be doing appealing and meaningful work for

justice.

6 I support this only if additional resources--financial and staff--are not being used for efforts on the south side. 7 The LL of the Oratory may be a good place to store the artwork and documents belonging to the Grail, it may even provide an interesting activity

for someone visiting the property, but it wouldn't be a big draw. (How many people came to the international creche exhibit each year? ) Also it

begs the question -- who will take care of it? Grail members who live nearby? I would resolve that question before creating anything more than

storage for the items.

8 Again...not an open ended question: The detailed plans for 2017, once submitted to Council, then consideration can be given to where is the

best place to Have a Grail Heritage spot. I would think that it would need to be near to where the National Grail will have its main office. Until the

location for the National office is determined, its not wise to deal with this question.

9 If you can raise the money outside of the Grail to do this fine. I said no there will be Grail money for it.


10 Maybe. The contacts we need today are not the ones who will be inspired by the past: they need to be inspired by what we are doing today.

11 After 2-3 years of successful programs, the space for such a Grail Heritage Center will emerge. It well could be a new building that is partially for

residential programs, or a centrepiece in a different area on the northside. This will emerge as the program grows.

12 How does that create financial support ? 13 This would be a good idea once we have some concrete sense that there will actually be programs based on specific plans for implementation

and people with enthusiastic participation to host such a place. Before then, I can only support it minimally in the hope that resources to

accomplish what is suggested here.

14 This would be nice. I would prefer a focus on our present and future. 15 is this linked to #5 any concrete ideas donot spend money on a pie in the sky if possible 16 again clarify 17 Does this mean a little "museum." I don't think it is likely to attract many visitors or new contacts. Our history is interesting to us, perhaps a

few other women or church historians -- but it is not a general interest.

18 I like the idea of sharing our Heritage as connected to our living present and future, but I have doubts about the space need to do this as a

physical museum, especially in All Saints Hall. Given the ways of sharing information that exist in the world today I think we need to explore a

variety of ways to present ourselves.

Q7 Agricultural land will be well maintained and organic certification will be continued. We will

support current farm collaborations and actively seek additional collaborators compatible with our

mission and make positive contributions to the local food economy.



(no label) 51.85%

14 7.41%

2 3.70%

1 7.41%

2 29.63%

8

27

2.56 # Other Comments: 1 We seem to have a lot of partners and collaborations and very exciting agricultural ideas and project, but they have not been able to sustain

themselves.

2 Connect with Grail Internationally on what we are trying to do. Consider what activities and/or programs would benefit Grail women from other

countries as participants or interns. Consider what programs would seem practical for visa application.

3 This is a natural priority for Grailville, built on purpose on a farm. This is a major way for us Grail to express an important part of what should be

everybody's mission - to support and heal the poor Earth and poor people and strive toward sustainability for ourselves as well. We need to re-

inhabit the land, which is what the eco-village effort was all about, bringing enough people together, be a “critical mass” so that a variety of

talents can be expressed. See 4 as well.

4 I appreciate the presence of the current Grail members who have been working the land in various ways. I want that to continue. And I'm sure

there are others who will gratefully join us.

5 I would agree if the focus was on the north side parcels. While Grail members can certainly continue their involvement and support for projects

leasing the southside parcels, these projects are personal businesses and the individual commitments of very few Grail members and cannot

provide a strong foundation for the future of Grailville. Contributions to the local food economy should incorporate an evaluation of how low

income persons can be integrated into the model of education, farm activity and access to healthy food.

6 Agriculture is not a central mission of the Grail and has not been for at least the last 40 years. In fact, the purchase of the farm in the first place

was not to produce farmers, but to be a context for a formation program for women who would go out into the world to transform oppressive

structures and to support the empowerment of the disenfranchised. The farm was the setting. It was not the goal in the past, or if it was, it was

not very successful as

we have few Grail members, even in Loveland whose work is, or has been, farming. Moreover, the US Grail has never, to my knowledge, even

discussed such a goal as a program priority. A lot of things are “compatible with our mission” and farming is surely one of them. So is adequate

child care, quality education, affordable housing, the work of the YWCA, First Step Home, Off the Streets…. One could name dozens of

“compatible” programs to which the Grail has not committed its resources, nor should it. By the same token, there is nothing in our history or

present statements of goals and priorities that would support our committing our resources to the support of a “local food economy” when people,

not only around the world, but even in Clermont County are starving.

7 I believe that Grail members who lease land from the Grail have a conflict of interest that has not been openly discussed but has been very

present in the outcomes of the vote. I think we should partner with collaborators who can afford to pay the going rates for our organic land.

And/Or they should be serving poor communities who could not afford to buy organic produce on their own. If we have been maintaining the land

well, it should be worth a premium to those who wish to lease it.

8 I would support this only if it were being accomplished on the north side. 9 Here again, the statement sounds great but what is our reality? We have one Grail member who works on the land daily and can't keep up with

the encroaching nature of brambles, invasive pear trees, and weeds. When Mary Lu retires, who will do the paperwork required for organic


certification? The current farm collaborations with the Hills and CSA are complicated and fraught with issues -- legal, fiscal and personal. As much

as members would like to support the idea of other members working the Grail land, it is not financially responsible for us to do so. Supporting

"the local food economy" sounds like a wonderful goal unless you dig deeper and understand that the Grail is subsidizing the production of food

for the consumption by middle class white people in a well-off suburb in Cincinnati. Shouldn't we be looking for ways to serve the

underprivileged? Having the CSA donate a share to the Loveland foodbank is admirable, but not core Grail work that members can take credit for.

10 Open ended Question might be: How do you see Grailville using its agricultural land. etc.. -Glad to see the use of organic methods for the land

used for the animals, cows , chickens and for the crops grown there. Organic methods which are sustainable methods is what matters. The

certifications is not as important to me. If we are going to be organic then we need to be consistent across the board. I am still hoping that all

Grail farming be done on the North side...on our smaller foot print. It takes a lot to care for 70 to 80 some acres! -Northside needs to be

agriculturally used... We cannot pretend that we can afford land to lie idle when we really cannot balance our budget. (which means borrowing

from the future and being in the position of "begging")...when there is plenty of land to till or sell. - The hope for land sales was that GV for years

now, has not been able to balance our budget. Now is the time to take things in hand, make the diff. decisions.

11 I do not agree that the South side be considered as part of the national Grail mission. The funds of south side land sale are needed to support

national Grail work outside of Grailville.

12 This is fine for people who want to invest their lives in it, but I believe that will be very few. For the rest of us, this is not meaningful enough to

invest our lives in it.

13 As previously indicated in your questions, the word ‘sustainable’ agriculture or land is used. From current research on climate change, our global

community is now over the threshold for sustainability. In the recent International Grail Global Justice and Overcoming Poverty Newsletter [May],

the issue of sustainability is no longer the viable option.

The focus needs to be on re-generation. This is a very serious change in our mentality. The Finn Meadows Proposal by the Luff’s was about re-

generation of the soil – which reduces the need for pesticides and builds up the soil for healthier food. Obviously some of the CSA practices

nationally are doing some of this, but this is critical to the future of our Earth. Will you be leasing land to future farm collaborators? Besides

leasing, will these farm collaborators be donating say 60-70% of any profits they make to the Grail? Have you done any research on the tax

implications for the Grail on leasing land to for-profit farmers? Leasing land to other farmers is not an option.

14 Not really a Grail mission 15 I agree with maintaining the agricultural land. I also feel strongly that the land needs to be improved so that it will support organic agriculture.

Mary Lu has said that the soil is so depleted that this will take several years. Organic certification is less important to me. Collaboration with

Turner Farms was rejected. Is it possible to find collaborators more qualified than they are? I don't think the Grail has an obligation to support our

current renters. I believe that the food system in the United States is broken. Anything that helps move us to a healthy and equitable system is a

step in the right direction.

16 if it is appropriate for here, i will like to note that A. present leases should be examined in light of the number of years past and possible

improvement and productivity by the leasors. B. it was noted that one leasor has a low cost lease and yet is conducting a profit organization. C.

Also, it was noted that leasors are using land that they pay nothing for. We should be attempting to temper the value of the land and our

compassion for our stakeholders

17 I disagree with Grail members profiting from their use of Grail land. 18 I do not believe that farming is an essential work of the Grail. Only a very few Grail members are farmers -- and they are very near retirement

age. Some of us have gardens or houseplants -- but we are not going to leave our families and come to farm land. Some of us belong to and

support CSAs in our own communities. It is not necessary for the national Grail to support a CSA in Loveland.

19 This is vital and the foundation is already laid.

Q8 Continue planting trees at Grailville in partnership with Taking Root (a regional campaign to

plant a tree for each person in Greater Cincinnati by 2020), trees to be planted and maintained by

volunteers.



(no label) 10.34%

3 6.90%

2 20.69%

6 24.14%

7 37.93%

11

29

3.72

# Other Comments: 1 How many trees will this be? Where will they be planted? How many acres will they cover? Will they include food trees as part of a CSA?

2 Can some of this be done within the conservation areas? I hope that many of these trees will be food producing crops for the age to come which

will need everything we could produce. Apply the tactics and benefits of “Forest Gardening.” This allows trees to have multiple benefits.

3 It's our small part of greening the planet....and helping us all breathe better. It's a great way to involve volunteers too. 4 While planting trees is always a worthwhile activity, I do not think this specifically rises to the level of Grail projects that are needed to sustain

Grailville over the long run. I'm sure many Grail members are involved in local tree planting programs, myself included. I would see this as a

supplementary effort within a larger land based program.

5 This needs to be part of a larger management plan for the grounds -- just planting trees for the sake of planting trees is not good enough.


6 No objection to planting trees. But that’s not enough to warrant the expense of maintaining nearly 300 acres of land and buildings with Grail

funds.

7 I support this so long as it does not require paid staff to oversee it. 8 This, too, sounds like a no-brainer. Who wouldn't want to support the planting of trees? But, who is actually taking

care of these newly planted trees? I know from personal experience that when a tree is planted it needs to be watered every day until its root

system is established. Do we have the volunteers to do this? Or access to the water or a hose? If we haven't yet defined how we are going to use

the property, how do we know where to plant the trees so that they aren't in the way of future plans, such as a new building?

9 This question belongs to planning work which needs to be submitted and vetted. This is good work but nothing we need to vote on..

10 this sounds like a nice idea if can be done on the north side and there is personnel to water the trees as Taking Root has prescribed.

11 No objection -- who could object? -- but I will not help with this. 12 Certainly, this is needed globally, and specifically at Grailville. However, where to plant trees comes after you know what you are doing on the

North side. You may have paths or a possible new building in x place and have to re-plant trees. You are ahead of yourselves until you have a

program, with people in mind to participant in programs with commitments of numbers of people. With 72 acres on the north side -- you have

amble room to develop long term training -- not days here and there.

13 No financial benefit 14 How about fruit trees? 15 good project keeps the future of environment in consciousness 16 Trees, especially deciduous trees, add oxygen to our atmosphere, clean the air, add beauty for our spirits, provide homes for birds and small

animals, and in general are one of the best investments we can make, in fulfillment of our Grail mission.

17 Trees are good. However this is not an ongoing work of the Grail. What work is the Grail going to do at Grailville -- an occasional community

good work is not a Grail program.

18 I would like to see the type of trees planted to focus on food producing work.

Q9 The U.S. Grail has used its land at Grailville as a means of educating local, national and

international community groups about the linkage of land and human well-being, promoting a just

and sustainable world, the connection between social justice and food access, and caring for the

Earth. How strongly do you agree or disagree that the U.S. Grail’s work at Grailville include

education/community outreach about care of the Earth and support for just food systems?




(no label) 25.00%

7 14.29%

4 10.71%

3 7.14%

2 42.86%

12

28

3.29 # Other Comments: 1 Again, this sounds great, but to this point we have not been able to afford it - haven't been able to make it sustainable. I don't see how we can do

that ourselves now.

2 This seems “of course”. and this should not be just Grailville's work but everyone in the Grail and living on earth. But Grailville is in a prime place

to do this work and educate. Educating by doing and making vision and possibilities for a different attitude toward work visible. We are The

northern edge of Appalachia. One reason I was not particularly keen for a drug rehab utilizing our buildings and becoming a central facet of

Grailville, because I think we can help with this huge problem of discouragement and despair which can lead to addiction, like other sorts of

programs. This Work is one of great importance for our international Grail as well as locally and nationally. Members have often exchanged

wisdom in this area by exchange of people.

3 Education and community is what we've always been about---it's a no-brainer. We've seen from the CSA program the community that is created

with those coming together to work the land. Also, with educational efforts, it's a way to bring in new people, especially young women to serve as

interns.

4 I think there could be more expansive programs on the politics of water conservation and water infrastructure. Also programs aimed at developing

sustainable households that are earmarked to suburban residents that could include water usage, sustainable landscapes, energy conservation

and alternatives and anti-consumer lifestyles in support of a healthier planet. I would love to see Grailville pick up again the conversations that

started around Transition Towns and incorporate that thinking into planning and programming.

5 This introductory statement does not comport in any significant way with my understanding of the US Grail’s use of

the land at Grailville. It has not been the focus of any Grail program in which I have participated over the last 45 years. Certainly participating in

those programs, and enjoying the setting and the food, harvested -- in part -- from Grail land, has enhanced my enjoyment of those programs.

However, none of them has focused on education about the linkages described. I do not agree that the suggested work in the following paragraph

should be the focus of the work of the

US Grail, or of the use of the US Grail’s most valuable asset.


6 I think this makes sense, but I want to learn how we will do this education and community outreach in a way that is different than other,

existing organizations. And how we will do it in such a way that is economically sustainable.

7 I would agree with this only if it can be done without using additional National financial resources 8 I don't believe that organic farming should be the focus of our Grail work in the US or the focus of the Cincinnati Grail.

I understand that this is the passion of three Grail members (Mary Lu, Becky Hill and Julia Almagier) who are active on the Grail land, and that

others support the idea of organic farming without getting their hands dirty. I respect their interest, however, there are others better equipped to do

this work than we are. There are other pressing issues facing our world and our country that a larger number of Grail members could work on.

Some members look upon the Year at GV with nostalgia and would love to recreate that world. What about the work of our Grail sisters who fought

for civil rights in the 60's and worked to abolish apartheid? Why not revive that aspect of our Grail history instead?

9 I see that locally G@GV chooses to work on food issues, which is good and its really a community group...not Grail that does the work of the

CSA. The love of the land exists among some Grail members in Loveland & Cinci. area, so it can be expressed as local mission...but that is not

the National or International Mission of the Grail. That a percent ofGrail programing at Grailville, would embrace, land and food...great....but it

needs to go beyond that and include the UN Goals for sustainability for women and the world!! Of course that includes climate change....etc.. We

need to remember, even as treasured as Earth Share's is ..(and it is treasured)...it is using such a small/tiny part of GV. total tillable land.

Might....Earth shares begin a steady transition to the Northside....and lease land there.

10 This is not clear enough as to whom the food and the educational programs will be reaching. 11 "Include" -- sure: who could object? -- for those who want to do this. But this is not what I want to do with my life. 12 Until the goals are clear and measureable, what does human well-being for whom mean? food access to whom? education and community

outreach to whom? well off university students? low income neighborhoods? Who are the target groups? Are the programs going to reach

marginalized communities groups to grow the impact of the work beyond our small patch of land? How will this work for those most in need?

13 No staff for it , no financial support 14 Is there a sixth rating (lol)? 15 This sounds very local to me. Is It? 16 Grailville was established as an education center for women and that the focus was not care of the Earth and just food systems. Where are the

programs that will engage women in meaningful development? That is what I want to see.

The Grail is not a farm organization and we really do not have the capacity to promote just food systems. The Luffs could have done a better

job than we if that is what the committee really cared about.

17 Top of the list. 18 Continue the work to collaborate with other food/ecology oriented organizations to extend our reach into the community, thru education

and service.

Q10 A local governance structure for the new Grail Center will be explored that would consist of

people with multiple skills, Grail and non-Grail, to oversee management and guide the

development of new initiatives at Grailville. It would be integrated into the national structure. Answered: 27 Skipped: 5



(no label) 41.38%

12 3.45%

1 17.24%

5 6.90%

2 31.03%

9

29

2.83 # Other Comments: 1 Integrated into the national AND international, but with a strong emphasis on local control and a worker's cooperative. I believe that these past

years have shown we need a new approach to governance.

2 I think it good to have non-Grail involved in our efforts but I do not think non-Grail person(s) should be the director(s) of programs, etc.

3 I am not sure what this means. I would need to see something described with decision-making scenarios so that we can better understand

implications for hiring and supervising staff, accountability to Council and members, legal and fiscal accountability and evaluation.

4 Any governance needs to go through Council -- the exclusion of Council members at any level is not appropriate. All oversight begins with

Council and any decisions should be subject to veto by Council.

5 I could not disagree more. The Grail is a National US Grail asset. To give the control of that over to a board made up of non-Grail people would

be financial and institutional suicide. Certainly having an advisory committee made up of local people, or seeking non-Grail consultants to assist

with particular needs would be appropriate. But giving an independent board the power “to oversee management and guide the development of

new initiatives at Grailville?” Absolutely not!

6 I support the idea of an advisory board, such as exists at Cornwall. However, I strongly disagree that this group should have financial or

administrative control over Grailville. I would welcome an advisory group that expands the current human resources and would be delighted to

have new initiatives. The Grail is limping now both financially and in personnel, because many people think we spend too much money for

personnel. I think we cannot afford NOT to spend money on qualified and competent personnel, because mistakes become very costly.

7 No more draining of the National energies and coffers please. Assume the responsibility for Grailville that you have sought and make it


sustainable as you promised it could be without further assistance from the National Grail.

8 Open ended Question might be: How do you see local governance happening at GV? This question is appropriate for a General Assembly. This

is not the time to deal with this question. Please submit these ideas to Council with great detail and ask for them to be included in the planning

for 2017 General Assembly

9 I am not sure. Several years ago there was an ??? "advisory" (????) board. Someone of St. Columban Parish was part of that. Wasn't Beth

Murphy part of that? How did that work? I guess it failed but I do not know/ Integrated into the national structures ...... ownership, financial

responsibility etc. too complicated for me to have an opinion.

10 This is a national Grail asset and oversight by the national Grail. 11 I do not foresee anything except conflict with National in such a group. I would strongly object to this. 12 This is Grail land and the management of that land is in our hands as Grail members. There is always room for consultations with those not in the

Grail. Absolutely. And there can even be an advisory group – but that group has no decision making power. Grailville is a National Grail asset,

and the authority of its use remains in the hands of the National Grail.

13 No to non-Grail , I am not interested In a home owners group . You propose integrating non Grail into the National structure , surly you jest ? We

are a woman's organization not a neighborhood co op. .I believe we should do the best to pass it on to good folks along with their ownership of it

. If we can't do that we should sell to the highest bidder and the proceeds go to the national Grail for their use or for international Grail support.

14 This depends on what is implied here. I strongly agree with a local ADVISORY board consisting of people with multiple skills, Grail and non-Grail

to help guide the development of new initiatives. As a National Grail Center, Grailville should not have its own separate governing structure.

15 if i can support this personally i will like to. education, training, curriculum development, personal development 16 Depends on how this is organized. Currently the Grail owns all Grailville land and buildings -- and must maintain ownership except of what we

have agreed to sell. Therefore the Council is ultimately responsible for Grailville and any governance structure must -- must! -- operate under the

jurisdiction of the US Grail Council.

17 This is essential. We have all just experienced some of the drawbacks of our current governance structure. Confusion, frustration and

dysfunction. Delegation of specific responsibilities to more local governing bodies within our existing structure could help solve this.

Q11 What else would you like to say or want to be considered?


# Responses 1 So glad there is still a Grailville to support - the whole thing! 2 Only to say I'm so grateful for this group for continuing to lead us in a struggle to keep the Grail presence at Grailville and for loving the land.

3 What plans are proposed for fund development? Who do you imagine is doing the work? i.e. newly hired staff, Grail volunteers? If there are

collaborations, are financial costs shared? other expectations or agreements spelled out?

4 Anything at Grailville and any discussion needs to go through the Council and this committee needs to be expanded to include National Members.

The members on this committee do not represent me.

5 This is a test. It appears that one can "vote" as often as one wishes. I'm trying to see if this, my second vote, actually goes through

6 11. I would have liked to see an actual needs assessment exploring the interest, hopes, visions, of the US Grail 6 months ago. A needs

assessment, by definition, does not start with “this is what we’ve already decided” and ask “do you like it? Yes or No? “ A needs assessment

asks – at the outset -- What do you see as the future of the Grail at Grailville and how will you participate in making that happen? Seven months

into planning is no time to do a “needs assessment” with any expectation that people will buy into a pre-determined direction.

7 This does not seem like a needs assessment to me. It seems like a search for endorsement of a program that is not yet defined, nor does it say

who will be served besides members.

8 Please remember that almost 2/3 of the membership do NOT approve of your continuing to hold on to the south side of Grailville and behave

appropriately. Think small and simple and realistically based on available funds and local volunteer resources. Build again centered in a soulful,

fully committed community that prays together, trusts in the Spirit, and does what can be done without burdening the movement as a whole. We

need to be doing more at the national level than talking about and dealing with Grailville all the time. Also, the wording and framing of this survey

is such that it is biased toward positive responses and does not inspire confidence in a realistic moving forward. In future needs assessments

please allow for less slanted responses and more open dialogue.

9 The G@Gv group could benefit from diversity among their members. They are of one mind and as a result it looks like the Home Place continues

to push forward its agenda from 2 years ago without incorporating other view points. The one exception is the addition of the words "social justice"

in the mix. In the spring of 2016 a group of Cincinnati Grail members came together for a day of visioning for GV. We identified the critical issues

of our day and how the US Grail and GV could approach those issues. I don't see the ideas generated by that discussion reflected in this survey.

Did anyone keep the newsprint we used that day to capture our thoughts? (A summary was done but it was not reflective of the entire group's

thoughts.) I heard that a couple of members outside of Cincinnati had volunteered to be on the G@GV committee -- what happened with that?

Being that GV is one of the largest physical assets of the Grail, it is only right that the wider US Grail be represented in the discussion.

10 The previous statements have no substance. Saying you agree with them is like saying all children should have food to eat. There are no


credible actions toward anything, no financial plans and no names of individuals willing to do actual work or donate money.

11 For a "living Grail Center" it seems to me we need a resident staff at the center. 12 Grail at Grailville needs to focus on viable and financially sustainable programs on the noth side. 13 The survey states in the introduction that this first survey is intentionally open-ended. This was not an open ended survey of what do members

think are the main needs and deepest worries and hopes of women in our world/country today.

14 I think you are not doing Grail work I think you are mostly being very selfish 15 We should assume that the new Grailville will be located on the North side of O'Bannonville Road. 16 Are you considering expanding the G@Grailville group to include women from other parts of the country? Grailville belongs to the entire US

Grail. At the moment I do not feel represented on the committee. To whom will the group be responsible?

17 Definitely the opportunity ti reach back into the past life of Grailville and breathe into life in the 21st century life programs where women live and

learn on the land. I have met sterling grail members who have been through life and learn experiences at Grailville like Joy and Sharon. The

Grail could ask for no better members.

18 Any religious or Catholic events? 19 Never give up; live in hope always--that is a healthful practice and the most practical way to contribute to the world. Women's spiritual and

physical well-being, in community, is a primary need in our country and in our world.

20 Please re-focus so that there is less attention to the land issues and more attention to programming around other Grail mission issues. Consider

ways to create programming around ecological issues that are not all farming. We are not a farm organization.

Q12 What kind of support can you give to the Grail Center at Grailville?


Answer Choices Responses

Presence—short-term/long-term 13.33% 4

Financial 20.00% 6

Prayer 50.00% 15

Administrative 3.33% 1

Service on circle/board 10.00% 3

Physical maintenance 3.33% 1

Programmatic 6.67% 2

Other professional skills (please specify in comment box below) 13.33% 4

Other (Please specify): 70.00% 21

Total Respondents: 30 # Other (Please specify): 1 Don't know at this point. 2 Will decide following retreat. 3 PRESENCE– probably short-term or for programs. Next year is Hopes 45th anniversary and since I'm not as likely to be fit for the 50th, I hope

some things can be done related to this world Grail story that is reaching out beyond where any of us have been able to. It's a very humbling

thing, and if this story and experience can be used for good, to support our Grail mission which is not 1st of all just to exist for ourselves, but to

bring the pollen of love to as many cultures and people as possible COUNT ME IN! FINANCES– until my ship comes in they will continue to be

modest. SERVICE –possibly I help best mostly doing what I'm doing and supporting other groups. I'm awfully busy managing Hope for the

flowers, and all this recent Grail work has certainly deflected my focus. I just thought it was so terribly important to carry on during this difficult pre

and post vote time. OTHER – my varied life experiences, my long history in the Grail, plus a certain peculiar ability to often notice what is not

there in contracts and reports may turn out useful. (I don't particularly like reading them, but I can put on a legal hat, honed sharp by 44 years of

warding off sharks!)

4 I am sure that as we see financial needs, I'll be able to contribute something. I don't know what physical maintenance means.......but coming to

spend some weeks at GV can include maintenance as well as working with volunteers, greetings visitors, etc. I don't see taking leadership in

programming but could certainly be part of the thinking and actually being present to be more 'backstage'.

5 I will continue to focus on Grailville issues while serving on the Council. At one time I thought I could spend some time on programming to

revitalize Grailville. Currently I do not see that as a possibility as I am rethinking where I can put limited time and energy and the focus of my life

and responsibilities will be on grandchildren and in local activities. I will maintain a steady but limited contribution to Grailville as part of my

national pledge but not likely at the level of previous years.

6 I am tired of supporting a group that only thinks for itself. Any decisions and discussions must be routed through Council. Lack of including

Council members is further evidence of a failure of this committee to do the work that they have been asked to do. We have answered these


questions before - why do you think the answers will be different now?

7 My time when I am able and its needed 8 None, based on what is presented here. Perhaps more, if a truly National Grail program is developed. This has no relevance for anyone living

outside of the greater Cincinnati area. It is not clear to me why I, or any other Grail member who lives elsewhere should/would support what is

described here.

9 I'm not convinced that a Grail Center at GV is the best use of Grail resources. The vision and mission stated above are too vague for me to know if

I could support the actual activities that might develop.

10 -At the moment, I work/volunteer locally -Have four ailing siblings...needing some of my attention -Work with a local Justice group -Attend local

Single Payer health care meetings & lobby -Work to help pass the "Disclose Act"..Clean money in gov. -Help organize the Grail locally..and in

the general area -trying to move...etc.

11 Questions that must be answered before we proceed: Who will we serve? What unique skills can we bring to the table? Are there other entities

serving this population? Can they do it better and/or at lesser cost? The greatest needs are found in urban Cincinnati. This population is not

going to make its' way to our door in Loveland. First Step Homes, however, serves a great need and lends itself to our unique skills. These young

women can learn about gardening, nutrition, and the spiritual connections between land and faith from us. They need to be empowered, to know

they are worthy of the good things waiting for them. They need strong women mentors and the solidarity that comes from knowing someone has

your back. How empowering for us to serve this population. The Spirit is knocking. Are we going to open the door? I would be happy to lend my

skills to work with the women and staff of First Step Homes.

12 I cannot give any specifics at this time in my life. 13 Maybe a small amount of financial help. 14 As articulated here, it's hard to imagine I would support this at all. With a different vision, I could offer limited programming support.

15 Until the committee really finds out from membership the key issues of our country, world and women in our own areas and how Grailville might

serve them, I do not see how this work to carry out the past is viable or feasible in the form you have put forward in this very limited and closed

survey.

16 I am not interested in this and do not think it represents the Grail . there is no center at Grailville and has not been one for many years. the

retreat center was a stop gap and we had plenty of time to develop a community. Two to three people living at Grailville do not make a

community. It is over there is no heart left there.

17 None, based on what is presented here. Perhaps more, if a truly National Grail program is developed. 18 None 19 Program presenter I am very limited financially after the back surgeries that went bad my resources have been very limited but I am still GRAIL.

If I could get there I would be willing to be on a committee.

20 Communications, publishing, art/design/photography

Q13 The Grailville endowment fund was established to support Grailville. It is the desire of the Grail

at Grailville committee to grow the fund and increase the revenue. We are soliciting ideas on ways to

build the fund. Please share any suggestions here. Answered: 16 Skipped: 16

# Responses 1 We need to take a long hard look at the whole of US Grail finances and policies before I can make any such suggestion for GV. 14. I

assume that the results of this survey will be shared with all US Grail members - in a synthesis, not a list of numbered responses.

THANK YOU.

2 The purpose of the Grail art production effort Created by a team of us in the early 1950s was to both do something about Catholic kitsch and earn

money to invest in the retirement of Grail workers. It was my great honor and privilege to use my artistic skills to help grow this fund. We did a lot,

and that's what came out of St. Brigid after the chickens left For 15 Years! Some Sort of a new art production effort might be useful (But I

Personally Need to Focus On How to Keep What We've Already Accomplished In Some Level of Production And Find New Marketing People.) My

Main Focus Is Also Artistic, Expanding the Global Reach Of Hope for the Flowers Plus Creating Some New Work. I'm

Happy To Be a Consultant On Such a Project but Someone Else, Younger Than I, Needs to Be the Point Person. Terry And I Have Recently

been The Main Supports. To Keep This Remnant Of Our Cultural Past Alive. I Estimate I Have an Investment of about $8-$10,000 Worth Of

Sculpture In Upstairs Hodie and the Basement of Tidings That Could Be Sold. Another angle might be an interesting new idea I discovered at

our Montclair Art Museum about a a new type of “CSA”. it is a CSA membership supporting artists with disabilities and stands for Community

Supported Art and is based on the model of CSA agricultural programs popular nationwide. I picked up literature and would be

happy to send it to the appropriate person. Www.artgardenCSA.org. this link works when I tried it just now. 3 I don't have any at the moment. 4 I think GV needs a high quality long range planning document. You could seek local design/planning firms who may be able to assist or write a

grant for 5 year plan that could be used to approach major donors, apply for other grants, and establish capacity. - Meg Bruck suggestion some

years back- fund development pitch to locals in the community who benefit by Grailville maintaining green space that is a value they may want to

pay for whether they ever come there or not. - specific appeals to leverage small portions of the endowment to fund specific improvements. E.g

match X amount from our endowment so that we can accomplish y by this time for this purpose.


5 Please recall that the Council did vote to move money into the Grailville endowment to bring it up to 1 million dollars because at the time that

seemed necessary. That does not mean this is the only use that this money should always have. I am in favor of other Grail interests in the

United States having access to those funds and not just Grailville.

6 13. I have participated in numerous endowment campaigns, both for non-profits and for churches. In order to build an endowment for anything,

you need to articulate a program that inspires peoples’ hearts and engages their minds and bodies. No such program exists. Contributions to an

Endowment Fund make no sense in such circumstances.

7 1. Make the work at GV relevant to a wider group of members so that they are motivated to donate. 2. Sell land on the south side of the property.

8 That is a wonderful open ended question! No ideas at this moment...will reflect on that! 9 You all have to figure this out. 10 Until you have concrete goals, and find a unique niche, funding will be very difficult. With 2-3 years of very strong programs and impact

evaluations that show value, funding will be extremely difficult outside of the Grail network -- as well as Grail members themselves.

11 Not interested 12 Raffle a quilt. 13 ignore what has been tried already - certificate deposits - money market accounts - government bonds 14 No ideas 15 Radically reduce the Grail footprint as was recommended and develop activities that are financially sustainable so that we stop wasting money

and allow the endowment to increase.

16 I would like Council to designate a portion of the revenue targeted for the General fund (re: Asset Management Policy) from the soon to be sale of

Grailville land to go into the Grailville Endowment.

q1 the grail at grailville committee is proposing the...

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