The Building of the

Black Butterfly Temple

 

A Five-Year Development Plan

The Black Butterfly Temple is being built intentionally, in phases, with full transparency. Each phase establishes the capacity for the next, ensuring that growth is sustainable, community-centered, and infrastructure-supported.

 

Phase Zero — Establishment (Completed)

Phase Zero focused on forming the nonprofit structure and launching initial community programming. Early contributions funded essential infrastructure including website development, printed materials, and subsidized classes to ensure accessibility.

This phase transformed vision into active service.

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Early Believers

The earliest contributions to the Black Butterfly Temple helped fund essential startup infrastructure and community outreach. These funds supported website development, printed materials, and the offering of free and reduced-cost classes to ensure accessibility for all participants.

Their generosity allowed the Temple to begin serving the community before permanent land or facilities were secured.

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Traci Walter

Scott Wolf

Denise Riffle

Cathy Nelson

Amelia Hansen

Vicky Martin

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Phase One — Infrastructure Activation (In Progress)

Phase One focuses on securing and preparing a permanent base of operations. Funds raised during this phase will support property acquisition (if secured), electrical installation, septic system development, well drilling, and the first gardens. If property acquisition is delayed, funds may instead support the development of foundational cob structures and alternative on-site infrastructure.

This phase establishes the physical and operational foundation required for long-term programming and community stability.

With infrastructure in place, the Temple transitions from early development into sustainable expansion.

 

Phase Two — Program Expansion (Years 2–3)

Phase Two focuses on expanding consistent, land-based programming once infrastructure is secured. This includes community workshops, seasonal gatherings, youth education initiatives, and partnership collaborations.

During this phase, the Temple develops operational rhythm, volunteer engagement, and recurring community offerings. Program expansion allows the Temple to serve broader audiences while refining its educational model.

This phase transforms infrastructure into active, sustained community impact.

 

Phase Three — Campus Development (Years 3–4)

Phase Three centers on thoughtful land development and environmental stewardship. This may include additional natural building structures, gathering spaces, garden systems, and regenerative land practices aligned with the Temple’s mission.

By this stage, the Temple moves from single-site activation to cohesive campus design — integrating education, ecology, and community space into one unified environment.

This phase deepens roots and strengthens long-term sustainability.

 

Phase Four — Community Integration & Longevity (Years 4–5)

Phase Four establishes the Temple as a fully integrated community resource. This includes mentorship pathways, apprenticeships, expanded retreat programming, and long-term partnerships with schools, organizations, and local institutions.

At this stage, the Temple transitions from development to endurance — ensuring financial stability, leadership continuity, and multi-generational stewardship.

This phase secures the Temple’s future beyond its founding years.