SANDPOINT - The Gardenia Center, a non-denominational spiritual facility that has long been a staple in Sandpoint, is in the process of making substantial changes.

Owner Marilyn Chambers, who has presided over the board of directors for years, recently felt the need to step down and welcome new leadership.

Sandpoint's Yontan Gonpo was tapped to replace Chambers as board president, and the Buddhist lama, or spiritual leader, is excited to begin work in his new position.

Gonpo originally came to Sandpoint in 1994 to speak at the Gardenia Center and has taught classes on Buddhism and spirituality ever since.

In the midst of this transitional period, the center also experienced hardship when its sewer line collapsed last week.

Chambers said she is unsure about what caused the collapse and does not know what the exact cost will be to repair the line.

“The Gardenia Center is experiencing a situation whereby we are all called to decide the level of our commitment to the endeavor,” said Gonpo.

The damaged line is estimated to cost $8,000-9,000 to repair, which Gonpo said exceeds 75 percent of the center's available funds.

Gonpo is spearheading a fundraising campaign to help alleviate the costs of repair. He is hopeful that enough money will come in to allow the Gardenia Center to “flourish both physically and spiritually.”

If they are unable to raise the money needed to repair the line, Chambers said she will be forced to use funds meant to build an elevator for the multi-level center.

For information on how to donate, contact the Gardenia Center at (208) 265-4450 or on line at www.gardeniacenter.org