What does “sliding scale” mean? Our class prices are usually listed with a 'sliding scale' range. We do this as an attempt to keep our offerings affordable for people. The low end of the range is available for folks who would not be able to attend otherwise. We find that the folks who come to our classes tend to believe in the work we do and the value of accessible education. If you can afford the price at the higher end of the sliding scale range, we ask that you pay that amount. It allows us to offer our classes to a range of income levels while still being financially sustainable for Ampersand. We believe that part of being sustainable is being in the practice of helping each other out. What is your cancellation policy? Due to the nature of Ampersand's administrative infrastructure, or lack thereof, our cancellation policy is as follows: For cancellations 2 or more weeks before the class date, we will return your registration fee minus $15. For cancellations less than 2 weeks but more than 3 days before the class date, we will return 50% of the registration fee. We do not return registration fees for cancellations within 3 days of the date of your class. How are you funded? Ampersand follows the principle of voluntary simplicity. That's how we can afford to open our small community to educational events. If there is a way we can do something with previously used materials or through trade, we choose that way. We occasionally receive private donations (which are tax deductible) which help keep us afloat and moving on to the next sustainable project. But hosting and running Ampersand Sustainable Learning Center has been a labor of love. We offer Sustainable Habitat Consulting (see separate webpage) and Permaculture Land Management. These services help us sustain an income to maintain our site and keep us supplied with what we need. We donate the time it takes to run the Center because we believe in the work. We are open to receiving! When can I visit? Visit us on one of our volunteer days, open houses or sign up for a class!