2024 Annual Report

Together -

WE ARE REACHING NEW HEIGHTS 2023 ANNUAL REPORT

2023

TRIBUTE TO DIANE CORCORAN

DIANE THE GIVER, CONTINUES TO DELIVER

Diane Corcoran passed away peacefully on March 5, 2023, at the age of 76, at the University of North Carolina Hospital in Chapel Hill, NC, surrounded by her wife of 23 years, Ruth, and close friends. Diane was a true and abiding friend of IANDS. Diane was known to many as one of a kind! She was the real deal! She always cared about the outsider, the uninformed, the newcomer, the underserved--and would extend boundless generosity. Dr. Corcoran supported older individuals needing help because they were frail and vulnerable and had complicated health and social needs. She supported three households for individuals without necessities or means. She also provided the opportunity for a young woman from Africa to attend nursing school in the United States. Diane’s presence was larger than life--though she was described by some as soft, kind, simplistic, and quiet with a sense of humor.

Diane served as IANDS President several times over the decades and also fulfilled duties in many other roles. She had international and national relationships with resources she could contact on behalf of IANDS. Many of those relationships have continued with current leadership. Throughout the year, board members have saidthey miss Diane’s support, guidance, kindness, direction, input, lessons, and advice. Recently a person said Diane had walked her talk through mentorship.

Years ago, Diane was the backbone of IANDS and insisted that board members contribute appreciable funds to meet the financial needs of the organization. Previous board members have identified her as a Master of Calm Confrontation. She was a tough bird but truly had a gentle side. One person shared that the only time they saw Diane cry in all the years they knew her was when her nephew was stationed in Vietnam. As we know, Diane was a leader in establishment of the bequest commitment for those interested in supporting IANDS in this way. She definitely walked her talk: IANDS was gifted $30,800 after her death. Additionally, in lieu of flowers for her memorial, a donation to IANDS was suggested, which resulted in more support for IANDS.

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MILITARY COMMITMENTS Throughout her life, Diane passionately sought opportunities to help others. Her first assignment upon completion of nursing school in 1968 was in Vietnam, where she found incredible need and provided service. Dr. Corcoran subsequently had a significant impact on individual veterans, significant others, military practitioners, and healthcare providers around the world, through which her service to veterans continues.

Dr. Corcoran was an incredible nurse as well as a military and civilian leader. Her abiding passion for the military lives on through IANDS’s Col. Diane Corcoran Veterans Fund, through which her service to veterans will continue into the future. One veteran shared his view that Diane was organized, succinct, and concise without sacrificing depth and wonder.

An IANDS Member shared this: “As a military nurse in Vietnam, Diane was referred to as the “Death Lady.” She was called to the morgue when a couple lost their newborn baby, who was stillborn. She knew that the mother needed to hold the baby, and she made time and space for that to happen. She somehow had the intuitive awareness that being a witness, a nonanxious presence, or a compassionate other when her patients were in need, would be meaningful, even healing. And it was.”

DIANE CONTINUES TO GUIDE NURSING PROFESSIONALS Diane presented to hundreds of professional nursing and other organizations for IANDS on health care provider responsibilities in supporting patients who have had near-death experiences (NDEs). She was a key figure in IANDS’s annual conferences and served as co-chair of the Program Committee for many years. Conference Committee members often feel her commitment spirit and ask, “What would Diane do?” and somehow “they see the light”!

2023

Diane was a compassionate professional who worked unselfishly to better the lives of millions of NDERrs who experience a huge gap in healthcare provision, support, and resources. NDErs want to be heard, so she encouraged many positive options including the use of books. Her contributions continue to be recognized throughout the healthcare field. This week an individual shared that her positive attitude towards him helped him publish his book.

Diane was a forerunner in NDE education and a great advocate for patients and providers. Her contributions were vital as she boldly asked, “How many providers in the healthcare field have any idea how many thousands of patients walk out of hospital doors every day, without the benefit of support and education?”

It is evident that her advocacy for quality education, service, and research for vulnerable individuals in need of Nursing Best Practices following NDEs was essential.

She established nursing strategies to avoid harmful psychological consequences, as her colleagues built and fostered subsequent relationships. Dr. Corcoran continues to be quoted as an international expert on topics related to NDEs, management, and grief.

CONCLUSION

The IANDS Board of Directors learned at our February 2023 annual board meeting that if Diane had something to say, regardless of whether she is in the ICU with blood, treatments, and machines chirping, we would hear it. So, the heck with “’Til Death Do Us Part!” She is in our corner continuing to serve and walk her talk. All we must do is just Be. Blessings and Love to Diane and you,

Debbie James Debbie James, MSN, RN, CCRN-K

2023

TABLE OF CONTENTS 1

Who are we?

3

What is a Near-Death Experience?

7

Letter from the President

8

Letter from IANDS Engagement Chair

10

Serving Through Support

17

Serving Through Education

27

Serving Through Research

29

Serving Our Community

30

2023 Strategic Goals

31

Where Are We Going?

33

Donors and Volunteers

41

IANDS Leadership

49

Financial Highlights

2023

WHO ARE WE? YEARS OF SERVICE

IANDS is the most trusted source for NDE research, support, and education. Founded in 1981, the International Association for NearDeath Studies, Inc. (IANDS) is a non-profit 501(c)(3), membershipbased organization dedicated to encouraging scientific research, education, and support around near-death experiences (NDEs) and related experiences. IANDS members include experiencers, nonexperiencers, researchers; medical, mental, social, and religious/spiritual healthcare professionals; educators; and the general public.

MISSION To advance global understanding of near-death experiences and related phenomena through research, education, and supportive communities and resources.

VISION A world in which near-death experiences and related phenonena are widely recognized as valid and profound experiences that inspire and create lasting positive change.

VALUES We believe near-death experiences can transform individuals, the sciences, and society.

WHAT WE DO

Publish the scholarly, peer-reviewed Journal of Near-Death Studies Support IANDS affiliated groups around the world Offer weekly live virtual sharing and theme groups Organize weekly virtual talks, classes, and workshops Hold annual conferences, symposiums, and special events Collect accounts of NDEs and related experiences Spur research into near-death and related phenomena Provide education and support programs for military experiencers and veterans Engage in professional educational initiatives for healthcare providers Communicate regularly with our large membership base Produce the quarterly Vital Signs magazine 1 Publish groundbreaking books such as The Self Does Not Die

2023

IANDS HISTORY Near-death experiences gained public attention in the 1970s because of the pioneering work of psychiatrists Elisabeth Kübler-Ross; Raymond Moody, Jr.; and George Ritchie. To meet the needs of early researchers and experiencers, IANDS was started in 1978 by luminary NDE research pioneers Bruce Greyson, MD; Raymond Moody, Jr., MD, PhD; Kenneth Ring, PhD; Michael Sabom, MD; and John Audette, MS; among others. The organization was incorporated in Connecticut in 1981. IANDS was the first organization in the world devoted to the study of neardeath experiences and their relationship to human consciousness.

SOCIAL MEDIA YouTube Facebook X Instagram

MEDIA CONTACT Susan Amsden, BSc 919-383-7940 services@iands.org

IANDS OFFICE 2741 Campus Walk Avenue Building 500 Durham, NC 27705-8878 919-383-7940 services@iands.org iands.org

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WHAT IS A NEAR-DEATH EXPERIENCE? A near-death experience (NDE) is typically a profound, life changing, intensely emotional experience that usually occurs during a clinical crisis and has common characteristics and aftereffects. It is not a dream, hallucination, or mental illness (Greyson, 1983). There are no predictive variables to identify who will have an NDE. They happen to people of all ages, religions, socio-economic groups, cultures, educational backgrounds, and belief systems. They occur under a variety of circumstances such as accidental injuries, near-drownings, illnesses, combat, surgical procedures, and childbirth. Following an NDE, experiencers (NDErs) often display some common aftereffects. Research has established a set of common NDE characteristics and long-term aftereffects.

COMMON CHARACTERISTICS Every near-death experience is unique, but NDEs do tend to share one or more common characteristics.

• Feeling of dying or being dead • Feeling detached from the body • A sense of reality or hyper-reality • Senses more vivid than usual • Feelings of peace and joy • Experiencing an altered sense of time • Viewing the material world from a location apart from the body • Perceiving things in the material world that are later shown to be accurate • Moving through a passage, such as a tunnel or door • Being in another world • Encountering beings and/or deceased relatives • Feeling surrounded by light and love • Having a life review • Seeing visions of the future – personal and/or planetary • Having an enhanced sense of knowledge • Less often, feelings of nonexistence, torment, or isolation • Voluntary or involuntary return to the body

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COMMON NDE AFTEREFFECTS Nearly all near-death experiencers report aftereffects. These aftereffects are sometimes disruptive to experiencers’ lives and can take years to adjust to and integrate. Like the postscript to a letter, NDE aftereffects can be categorized with the acronym PSPS: Psychological Ineffability: NDE cannot be adequately described in words Loss of fear of death More humane values Increased empathy and decreased competitiveness More generous and charitable Expanded concept of love; desire to be a conduit of universal love Familiar codes of conduct lose relevance Increased curiosity and hunger for knowledge and learning More abstract thinking More philosophical More detached and objective Easily absorbed Child-like wonder and joy in living Sense of timelessness or disorientation regarding time Emergence of unresolved psychological issues

Support Resources Support resources for experiencers are available at iands.org, including contact information for friendly mental health professionals.

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Spiritual Increased interest in spiritual topics Sometimes more religious; usually more spiritual and less religious Spiritual homesickness Increased intuitive/psychic abilities Ability to know or “re-live” the future Ongoing sense of connection to a spiritual world and/or beings Physical Heightened sensations Changes in basic needs, such as eating and sleeping Increased sensitivity to light, sounds, and/or chemicals Feeling dissociated from the body Energy surges Electrical sensitivity -Receptive: Sensitivity to natural or human-made electrical fields -Active: Electrical equipment in one’s vicinity malfunctions Social Changes in social relationships and activities Strained relationships; higher potential for divorce among married NDErs Capacity for deeper connection to others Changes in vocation, usually toward greater service

NDEs are equal opportunity experiences: They occur about equally to people in every demographic category, including both sexes and every age, education level, belief system, and life experience.

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NDE FACT SHEET A near-death experience (NDE) is not a close brush with death! It is a subjective experience that is reported by about 17% of people who survive a close brush with death, or near-death episode.

An experience indistinguishable from an NDE -- a near-death-like experience (NDLE) -- can occur under other circumstances, usually involving some extreme conditions such as extreme emotional arousal, extreme peace, or extreme physical exertion.

NDEs are equal opportunity experiences: They occur about equally to people in every demographic category, including both sexes and every age, education level, belief system, and life experience.

NDEs contain some features that appear to be cross-cultural. However, those features may be expressed or interpreted in ways that relate to the experiencer's culture as well as uniquely to the individual experiencer. Thus, whereas NDEs reflect some universal features, no two NDEs are exactly alike.

NDEs range in intensity, from experiences with few and less subjectively intense features to experiences with numerous and more intense features.

About 90% of NDEs are pleasurable, that is, they are dominated by feelings such as peace, joy, and love. About 10% of NDEs are distressing; that is, they are dominated by feelings such as terror, horror, or isolation. Researchers have been unable to predict who will have a pleasurable or distressing NDE. Following both pleasurable and distressing NDEs, experiencers may initially feel challenged to adjust to and integrate the experience but eventually show positive aftereffects, including greater connection with and concern for others, loss of fear of death, and an enhanced appreciation for life. A 1993 Gallup Poll estimated that 12-15 million Americans had personally experienced an NDE. Estimates of NDEs among combat veterans have ranged from about 25% (Goza et al., 2014) to 48% (Hufford, 2019).

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LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT “Together we are making a difference in the lives of individuals, institutions, society, and the world.”

Dear Friends, Together IANDS is soaring to new heights -continuing to serve its mission by accomplishing important goals. Since its inception in the early 1980s, IANDS has made considerable progress in the acceptance of near-death and related experiences, but there is still more work to do.

I am pleased to present to you the 2023 annual report. In it, you can see how your support is making a difference in the world and the lives of others through the advancement of research, education, and support.

Above all else, we are profoundly grateful to our wonderful members, donors, and Throughout 2023, our staff, volunteers, and volunteers. You are the bedrock of all that an all-volunteer Board of Directors have we do; without you there would be no worked hard to maximize every dollar IANDS. received from annual membership dues, Sincerely, donations, and other contributions.

Janice Miner Holden Janice Miner Holden, EdD, LPC-S, ACMHP IANDS President

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Together We Sustain IANDS

DONORS ENGAGEMENT AND EXPANSION: TOGETHER WE ARE REACHING NEW HEIGHTS IANDS moves forward in love and light by holding space for communing, sharing, learning, and exploring. Leaning into new perspectives and integrating learning creates a new worldview. As a community, we explore pathways together to unveil a deeper understanding of the world around us. These pathways to divine knowledge are co-created through IANDS services, supports, and research. With the time and talent of many volunteers and donors, IANDS serves members and the world we live in.

In this report, you will read about the impact of the collective wisdom of IANDS members, staff, volunteers, and leadership board. In 2023, IANDS reached new heights after the ravages of COVID-19. From 2020 – 2022, funding from events and donations decreased significantly. Many of the in-person sharing groups closed their doors during COVID. Looking back, 2023 brought the highest levels of engagement to date, through IANDS Groups and Events, the Conference in DC, and the Spring Symposium.

Fortunately, our committed local group leaders have re-opened their in-person sharing groups or re-imagined their organizations as online or hybrid groups.

Volunteer numbers and the hours dedicated to IANDS throughout 2023 demonstrated an incredible commitment measured not only in hours gifted but also in increased capacity to deliver more to our members. By all accounts, IANDS adapted to the COVID calamity and is surging forward at an ever-quickening pace.

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2023

Thanks to the dedication of loyal donors and volunteers, IANDS “behind the scenes” website upgrades have streamlined registrations, memberships, and IANDS Groups and Events. With the generous support of our donors, the main IANDS website will be going through further upgrades: Stay tuned! IANDS Groups and Events offered more sharing and learning opportunities than ever before.

Record numbers of speakers, researchers, and healers shared their expertise and talents through events offered by IANDS Groups and Events, the Conference, and the Spring Symposium.

While we close a year which felt like a young stallion charging out of a gate, IANDS is embracing 2024 with an unbridled, unyielding passion, to share new pathways of peace, compassion, wisdom, and love. We are so grateful your compassionate and generous spirit is fueling this expansive collective experience.

Thank you,

Deborah Connor Deborah Connor IANDS Development Chair

HOW TO GIVE IANDS relies almost exclusively on the generosity of its donors, members, and volunteers to pursue its mission and vision. THANK YOU for wishing to help us in our efforts! IANDS is a 501(c)(3) non-profit charitable organization. Donations are fully U.S. tax deductible.

IANDS has several different funds to help direct your donation to the area of need you prefer, or you can choose General Fund. We also offer the ability to make a bequest. Call 1-919-383-7940 during business hours to learn more.

Donate Here

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2023

Together We Take Action

SERVING THROUGH SUPPORT

49

Groups Serving U.S. Communities

21

LOCAL GROUPS

Groups Serving International Communities

IANDS groups can be found in communities around the world. Our local groups meet in person (when appropriate) to talk about and share near-death and related experiences, questions about death and dying, and the latest information from NDE research.

IANDS Affiliated Groups serve neardeath experiencers by providing understanding and information to those who have had such experiences.

Groups also offer education and discussion of near-death and related experiences to the general public in a supportive, accessible setting. IANDS Affiliated Groups allow freedom of interpretation of NDEs and similar experiences and do not proselytize any single point of view. They provide support to NDErs, not psychotherapy.

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2023

Over the past year, we have conducted a survey of groups in nearly 20 countries outside the USA, but unfortunately three of them were found to no longer function.

These were Slovenia, Guatemala, and Spain. In the UK, a group stopped because the group leader could no longer handle the responsibilities due to her age -- and there was no successor. In Germany and France, there appeared to be somewhat more groups than we had recorded. Very hopeful were the reports from some countries where various activities were organized, such as Belgium, France, Germany, Iran, Israel, the Netherlands, and Switzerland -- activities such as symposia or other forms of frequent meetings. A new group was started in Denmark, and more groups may be established in some other countries in the coming year.

“Our world does not lack people willing to throw themselves into action. What we need are people who are capable of loving, of not taking sides so that they can embrace the whole of reality.”

–Thich Nhat Hahn

840 17,074

Presentations Through Local Groups

People Reached

by Local Groups

When we close our eyes and imagine the work each of our 49 local and 21 international groups performs every month as they reach out to their members and new friends, we are struck by the dedication the group leaders and their associates pour into their efforts. The preparations for meetings, the vetting of speakers, and the human interactions, which come at all hours, require constant mental attention, patience, and physical endurance.

Rereading the Thich Nhat Hahn quote above also reminds us of the unceasing kindness and love without judgment that directs the actions of every successful local group leader. To facilitate in such a way provides each attendee, sharing experiencer, and presenter a haven of safety in which they may relate their epiphanic encounters.

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If at least once each month, these local groups attempt, to their best ability, to provide such an atmosphere for their community to breathe in, envision the transforming and inspiring effects this could have on all who attend. When this effect is expanded to 70 groups and the thousands of individuals who join these gatherings each month, this expansion becomes a statement to the world that gentleness and open acceptance are, indeed, human possibilities.

We sincerely thank every group leader, their associates, and the many other IANDS and IANDS Groups and Events volunteers for their heartfelt efforts to inspire all who have open hearts and minds.

Evan Mecham Evan Mecham IANDS Local Group Coordinator - US Groups

Bob Coppes Bob Coppes IANDS Local Group Coordinator - International Groups

Find a Local Group

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2023

VIRTUAL SHARING GROUPS

208

Increase in Attendance for Sharing Groups

Sharing & Theme Groups Provided

We welcome everyone to our safe sharing groups. These groups are for anyone interested in near-death and related experiences. Trained facilitators keep the conversation moving while moderators keep an eye on the safety and comfort of attendees. IANDS emphasizes a listening environment that places participants at ease for sharing and/or hearing near-death and similar extraordinary experiences.

Groups per Month

Sundays @ 10 am ET Sundays @ 8 pm ET Thursdays-Midday & Evenings

“ I gathered up my courage to share my story that morning, and was blown away. The people were all so kind and welcoming which was so helpful to this shy girl. I left that meeting feeling so happy and free like I had found my tribe.

-Sarah

Ask any one of our core team of 18+ specially trained facilitators, and they will share with you how profoundly important IANDS groups are for helping experiencers accept their experiences. In the safe space created by our facilitators, experiencers support each other to find the words to talk about and understand what happened. Our community also learns how to find joy in implementing the experiences into their lives.

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THEME SHARING GROUPS Theme groups are similar to our general sharing groups, but the discussion is centered upon a theme. A specific topic is the focus of a facilitated discussion on the announced subject matter. These groups are good for sharing and learning from a set perspective and language such as Judaism, military experiences, or serving in the healthcare setting.

Theme Groups per Month OPEN Spirituality Group This is a safe space for respectful, open discussion of whatever Spirituality means to you. Open Spirituality has zero dogma or doctrine. It’s about a personal relationship with the Divine with zero requirements other than your intent to connect with likeminded people for stimulating conversation. Open Spirituality is a “non-religion.” It’s a place to share spiritual experiences and beliefs without a religious context. Religious contexts such as churches, synagogues, mosques, and such are often the only place where people feel comfortable discussing spiritual concepts, but those places often feel artificially constrained once one has had an NDE or other spiritually transformative experience. This group is for people who consider themselves spiritual but who may not be comfortable with traditional religions and religious beliefs and practices.

IANDS Navigating the NDE: 12-Steps for NDE Integration Group Near-death experiences are uniquely personal and life-changing. Until experiencers find a community that resonates with them, they may feel rejected, isolated, confused, and afraid to reach out for support. In this group, participants engage in a 12-Step NDE Integration process to find a path to community, validation, support, and acceptance.

IANDS Healthcare Professionals Group Focusing on near-death experiences and/or other related spiritually transformative experiences, this group is for those who are practicing professionally in the healthcare field such as physicians, nurses, counselors, therapists, psychiatrists, psychologists, pediatricians, related support workers, caregivers, health and wellness coaches, and patients with chronic disease or cancer, but is open to all with an interest to learn and understand more deeply.

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Find a Sharing Group Christian Clergy Group A group for Christian clergy and Christian chaplains, certified by their professional association, who are interested in near-death and other mystical experiences, comprise this group. This is 90 minutes of pastoral conversation.

UFO/ET/NDE Sharing Group This group is a safe space to share, learn, and explore the transformative experience of encountering galactic beings. IANDS groups are a safe place to talk and share openly about one’s STE with like-minded people. We invite you to share, learn, and grow with us. Everyone is welcome!

Jewish Experience Group Are you Jewish and wonder if or how your NDE or other STE aligns with your faith? Are you struggling to integrate your experience? Come explore these questions with others having similar concerns. Although this Sharing Session contains Jewish content, it is open to all who have a desire to join us.

Interfaith Clergy Group A free sharing group for clergy of all faiths to share about their experiences regarding near-death and related experiences and to discuss pastoral counseling of those who have had such experiences.

Distressing Experiences Group The Distressing NDE Sharing Group is for those who may have had a dark, hellish, or otherwise uncomfortable NDE. This group is a safe place to openly talk about distressing NDEs. We attempt to further contemplate how these experiences might provide insight, meaning, and guidance to our Earthly lives.

Military/Veteran Experiences Group Exclusively for active military, veterans, and military family and friends to talk about STEs that occurred during work for the military. The goal of this group is to offer a safe space to learn, share, and integrate the experiences.

Childhood Experiencer Sharing Group This is a sharing group for adults who have had a near-death or similar experience(s) when they were a child. The group offers a safe space to explore your experience and to connect with others who had a transformative experience as a child.

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After 6 months I finally felt comfortable speaking up for the first time in my life. To the point that I actually looked forward to being able to speak and feel the freedom of being myself and speaking my truth.

That is the power of kindness; the power of having people in the group accept me as I am and validate my feelings. As well as never be put down, judged, kicked out the group for not conforming to what the status quo believes.

-Nadine IANDS Sharing Group Participant

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Together We Take Action

SERVING THROUGH EDUCATION LIVE TALKS, CLASSES, & WORKSHOPS

44%

Increase in Attendance

131

Hours of Support and Education

We offer a global online meeting space created for near-death and other experiencers of the extraordinary who meet to learn, share, and grow. Our events are open to anyone with a sincere interest in respectfully exploring, understanding, and communicating about various topics including near-death and related experiences. We specialize in providing in-depth discussions with top researchers and experiencers about spiritually transformative topics, wherein attendees can talk directly with the presenters.

70+ Online Live Talks, Classes, & Workshops Researcher, industry experts, authors, and experiencers helped our community learn and grow in 2023 through our online live talks.

Here are just a few of our stellar speakers: Raymond Moody Barbara Bartolome Sandi Taranto Joan Fowler Neil Gaur Curtis Childs Richard Martini

Mary Neal Howard Storm Alexander Batthyány Rob Schwartz

Find an Event

Eben Alexander Mas Sajady Johanna Lunn Suzanne Giesemann Mark Anthony Liesel Fricke Roland Walters

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PODCAST Explore the Extraordinary is a groundbreaking new podcast exploring everything from near-death experiences to out-of-body experiences, lucid dreaming, encounters with divine beings, and more. This podcast delves deep into extraordinary experiences and perspectives that challenge our understanding of the world around us -- and our place in it. Through thought-provoking interviews, insightful discussions, and personal anecdotes, Explore the Extraordinary offers a unique platform for listeners to broaden perspectives and contemplate profound mysteries of human -- and spiritual -- consciousness. Explore the Extraordinary podcast is available on almost all podcast platforms. Hosted by Betty Guadagno, this podcast has expanded IANDS’s message to thousands of new followers.

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Episodes in 2023

YOUTUBE Providing great content through the global video platform YouTube helps IANDS reach millions of people. Meaningful experiencer stories, research, and workshops engage curious people who then connect through the comments. Beyond the diverse collection of videos, IANDS volunteers have created curated playlists.

IANDS is also providing more livestreaming events through the channel’s live option. Please support IANDS by subscribing to the channel and sharing it with friends.

54.5k Subscribers 392 Videos 7,628,642 Views

Go to IANDS Videos

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CONFERENCE The 2023 conference was a big success! We had more repeat attendees than ever before. IANDS provided stages for 140 speakers in beautiful Washington, DC.

535 Attendees

Continuing Education Credits Offered

There were also diverse topics presented such as time-jumping and research on what NDEs say about abortion. The event was filled with beautiful music. Speaker lunches were very successful. The fundraiser dinner was sold out! We’re extremely thankful for all of the love and support our community was able to share with each other and with us!

2024 is poised to be just as fantastic as 2023! We have Suzanne Giesemann, Anita Moorjani, Vinney Todd Tolman, and Chase DeMayo as our keynote speakers at the gorgeous Sheraton Grand Wild Horse Pass in Phoenix, AZ. Approximately 100+ speakers are preparing to provide effective tools, research, and more to support and educate our community.

REGISTER NOW

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SPRING SYMPOSIUM Targeted for healthcare professionals, with an invitation extended to the public, the 2023 IANDS Spring Symposium addressed the topic of the role of near-death experiences and related experiences in grief and grief counseling.

Attendees Earned 5.5 Continuing Education Credits

Presenters included Noelle St. Germain-Sehr, PhD: Ryan Foster, PhD: Karen Wyatt, MD: and William Peters, MA, MEd, MFT. Each person presented their own lectures that included research. Then they all participated in a panel discussion among the four speakers and Q&A with Symposium attendees In addition to learning about the most current research on these topics from our esteemed speakers, in the recorded symposium video available at isgo.iands.org, viewers can also see several recorded interviews with experiencers, including: Suzanne Giesemann describing the role of ADC in her grief for the passing of her step-daughter.

Mary Neal, MD, describing the role of her NDE in her grief for the passing of her eldest son.

Brian D. Smith describing the role of ADC in his grief following the passing of his daughter.

Thanks to IANDS’s partnership with the Association for Spiritual, Ethical, and Religious Values in Counseling (ASERVIC), a division of the American Counseling Association, Licensed Counselors received 5.5 CEs from the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC). Social workers earned 5.5 CE contact hours from the National Association of Social Workers, and this activity was approved by the Emergency Nurses Association to award 5.25 Contact Hours.

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Left to Right: Jacqueline Arnold, Sarina Baptista, Vickie Hays

PUBLICATIONS VITAL SIGNS

Designed for the entire community, this magazine is produced four times per year. Provided free of charge and in pdf format by email (or click the button to the right), it includes approachable articles by and about our community members. The 2023 editions incorporated cover art created by experiencers. This magazine is also printed and mailed to those who request a print version.

13,400

Read Vital Signs

People Served

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2023

JOURNAL OF NEAR-DEATH STUDIES The Journal of Near-Death Studies (JNDS) publishes articles on near-death experiences (NDEs), on the empirical aftereffects and theoretical implications of such events, and on related transpersonal (transcending the usual personal limits of space, time, identity, and/or influence) and spiritually transformative experiences (STEs). These phenomena include out-of-body experiences, deathbed visions, the experiences of dying persons, comparable experiences occurring under other circumstances, deathwatch or shared-death experiences, after-death communication, spiritual energy/kundalini awakening, mystical experiences, and past-life memories.

A further focus of JNDS is the implications of such phenomena for an understanding of human development and transformation and of human consciousness and its relation to life and death processes. The JNDS Editor, Assistant Editor, and Consulting Editors are committed to an unbiased exploration of these issues and specifically welcome a variety of theoretical perspectives and interpretations that are grounded in empirical observation or research.

The Journal of Near-Death Studies is the only peer-reviewed scholarly journal (ISSN 0891-4494) dedicated exclusively to the field of near-death studies. It is cross-disciplinary. Full texts of articles more than one year old are available online by going to the Past Issues webpage and clicking on the DOI under the article listing.

See Past Issues of JNDS

Learn More About JNDS

515+

People Served

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BOOKS

IMPRESSIONS OF NEAR-DEATH EXPERIENCES: QUOTATIONS FROM OVER 100 EXPERIENCERS Robert Christophor Coppes IANDS Publications is pleased to announce the publication of Robert Christophor (Bob) Coppes’s book Impressions of Near-Death Experiences. In this book, Coppes presents hundreds of quotes from more than 100 experiencers from all over the world. By organizing these excerpts into categories, he gives the reader a more in-depth and nuanced impression of near-death experiences (NDEs). NDEs come alive, and this effect multiplies as the reader progresses through the book. The message from these stories will touch a truth that is deep within you—an inner core that you can trust.

100+

Quotes from Near-Death Experiencers

Order at Amazon

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2023

THE SELF DOES NOT DIE The second edition of The Self Does Not Die has now been published by IANDS and is available at amazon.com. The project involved translating and expanding the Dutch book by NDE researchers Titus Rivas, Anny Dirven, and Rudolf Smit. This new edition details 24 new cases — 128 total cases — of veridical perceptions and other verified paranormal aspects of NDEs. Veridical perceptions in NDEs provide the best evidence of the apparent separation of consciousness from the physical body and, by implication, survival of consciousness after death.

IANDS was able to raise more than $20,000 for the project. The book features each case with all of the references that readers can use to explore the case further, including many on-line references with the links provided. There is a handy online version of the Reference List on the IANDS web site where the links can be followed simply by clicking on them.

128

Cases of Veridical Perceptions

Order at Amazon

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2023

Left to Right: Robert Christophor Coppes and Janice Milner Holden

EL YO NO MUERE THE SELF DOES NOT DIESPANISH EDITION IANDS is proud to offer El Yo No Muere, the Spanish edition of The Self Does Not Die: Verified Paranormal Phenomena From Near-Death Experiences by Titus Rivas, Anny Dirven, and Rudolf Smit.

It is available in paperback and Kindle versions.

Order at Amazon

25

2023

FOUNDATIONS OF NEAR-DEATH RESEARCH

Order at Amazon

IANDS has recently published Foundations of Near-Death Research, an anthology of 25 landmark research articles from the Journal of Near-Death Studies (JNDS).

This volume provides a systematic overview—a map—of what scholars have achieved so far regarding conceptual and phenomenological research in the field. This text identifies how nearly forgotten or neglected earlier research trends might inspire and enrich current research and points toward areas still left to be covered. The focus of the chapters moves consecutively from articles on epistemology—How do we approach the phenomenon of NDEs?, to phenomenology—What is the experience of an NDE like?, to ontology—What are NDEs, and who has them?, and, finally, to the wider implications—What do NDEs really mean?.

In the Foreword, JNDS editors Bruce Greyson and Jan Holden point out that the anthology highlights seminal work that may deserve additional attention among researchers. To lay and scholarly readers who are already knowledgeable about near-death studies, the anthology brings a new level of coherence to the field; and to readers new to near-death studies, the anthology provides a relatively concise introduction with which to orient and familiarize themselves with the field.

“This wonderful book offers a great opportunity, not only for scientists, philosophers, psychologists, and physicians, but also for near-death experiencers and the public, to have a better understanding of the implications and results of NDE research.”

-Pim van Lommel, cardiologist, author of Consciousness Beyond Life

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2023

Together We Achieve Success

SERVING THROUGH RESEARCH SUPPORTING AND REVIEWING STUDIES IANDS's research activities fall primarily within the purview of its Academic and Research Committee. In service to our community through this committee are Marjorie Woollacott, PhD, University of Oregon (Emerita), chair; Jan Holden, EdD, University of North Texas (Emerita); Norman Klaunig, MA, University of the Cumberlands doctoral student; and Robert Mays, BSc, Chapel Hill, NC. Among the Committee's primary 2023 activities: At IANDS's Annual Conference, we held a Researchers' Reception where 16 researchers in the field of near-death and related studies gathered to network about ongoing research activities and pending projects and hosted a Researchers' networking table at breakfast each morning.

We reviewed three submitted research requests and supported all three by giving researchers access to our NDE narrative repository and/or sending listserv messages and posting notices at https://iands.org/research/nderesearch/participate-in-a-research-study.html to help researchers solicit study participants.

We continued to publish IANDS's scholarly refereed Journal of Near-Death Studies, presenting the work of near-death and related phenomena researchers from around the world, and continued to make the full text of articles more than one year old available to researchers (and anyone) online by clicking on the DOI listed under the article citation.

We held our annual graduate student thesis/dissertation award competition and awarded a $1,000 grant to a doctoral student to support her PhD dissertation research: $500 upon award, and $500 upon submission of her dissertation-based manuscript for publication in IANDS's scholarly peerreviewed Journal of Near-Death Studies.

27

2023

From left to right: Front row: Suzanne Mays, AAS, Chapel Hill, NC; Robert Mays, BSc, Chapel Hill, NC; PMH Atwater, LHD, Charlottesville, VA; Marieta Pehlivanova, PhD, University of Virginia; Karalee Koethe, PhD candidate University of Colorado Denver; Natasha TassellMatamua, PhD, Massey University, New Zealand.

Back row: Bruce Greyson, MD, University of Virginia (Emeritus); Jeffrey Long, MD, Georgetown, KY; Monica Williams, MD, Santa Barbara, CA; William Peters, MA, MEd, Santa Barbara, CA; Jonathan Dinsmore, PhD, University of Tennessee, Chattanooga; Bob Coppes, PhD, Amsterdam, Netherlands; Jan Holden, EdD, University of North Texas (Emerita); Bettie Williams, PhD candidate, University of Michigan; Allan Kellehear, PhD, University of Vermont; Amanda St. Germain-Sehr, MS, doctoral student, Texas A&M University-Commerce; Noelle St. Germain-Sehr, PhD, William & Mary; Marjorie Woollacott, PhD, University of Oregon (Emerita); Jeffrey Mishlove, PhD, Albuquerque, NM; Janelle Barlow, PhD, Albuquerque, NM. Not pictured: Norman Klaunig, MBA, MA, doctoral student, University of the Cumberlands.

Seventy-eight new NDE narratives were added to IANDS's current repository of 2,500 narratives. This repository serves as a data source for researchers. Since 2016 when we added the NDE Scale to personal accounts, about 500 of the accounts include the person’s NDE Scale responses.

We published the second edition of The Self Does Not Die: Verified Paranormal Phenomena From Near-Death Experiences in both English and Spanish, a unique research-based case study publication in the field of neardeath studies. The new edition has 24 new cases for a total of 128 cases.

We also published Impressions of Near-Death Experiences, a compilation of over 100 quotations from experiencers that provides a holistic "picture" of NDEs.

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2023

Left to Right: Walt Scotson, Graham Standish, Stephanie Bradbury, Peter Panagore

Together We Achieve Success

SERVING OUR COMMUNITY MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS CHANGE In July of 2023 IANDS added IANDS Groups & Events Live Talks and access to over 200 videos at no extra charge for all Supporting membership levels and higher levels, with a 50% discount for Basic memberships. This innovation has resulted in an impressive increase in the effectiveness of IANDS’s mission. Our live talks are reaching 44% more people. Our sharing groups have 81% more attendance. This exponential improvement is supported by your involvement in IANDS through your membership and by your donations.

Thank you for helping us to support experiencers and to take the message of near-death experiences to a broader audience!

JOIN NOW

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2023

Together We Move Forward

2023 STRATEGIC GOALS MISSION ACCOMPLISHED Boasting a 90% success rate, IANDS can say that 2023's mission was accomplished.

Our donors, volunteers, committee members, and board worked together to achieve an enhanced website, improve customer service, enhance mental health support, and increase our publications. Together, we moved forward with each goal that was set for 2023, producing an even better IANDS for you!

Key: Purple=Achieved Green=Partly Achieved Yellow=Not Achieved

90%

Success Rate

Goal #1: Improve visitors' experience and engagement on IANDS's website.

Create new modern design and content changes on website.

Appoint a Website Content Manager.

Goal #2: Enhance organization functions and customer service.

Complete and adopt revised bylaws.

Improve conference proposal submission process.

Make hiring and volunteer appointments including bookkeeper and office admin assistant.

Goal #3: Enhance resources for mental health support.

Complete process for mental health professionals with transpersonal competence to be listed at the IANDS website.

Revise Group Leader Handbook to include mental health response.

Goal #4: Increase IANDS's publications.

Produce The Self Does Not Die second edition.

Produce the Impressions of near-death experiences: Quotations from over 100 Experiencers book.

Distribute Vital Signs more broadly.

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2023

Together We Move Forward

WHERE ARE WE GOING? 2024 STRATEGIC GOALS The strategic plan describes how the IANDS mission will be pursued over the coming year, with specific goals and strategies for each of the three major functions of our mission.

Each year the plan is revised by the IANDS Board of Directors with input from many people including IANDS members, working committee participants, experiencers, and other interested individuals. Strategic plans are not static; they are most useful if they are updated periodically to reflect changing circumstances and opportunities. For examples, we have already accomplished many items in the current plan and are working hard on others, learning as we move forward.

We are committed to an annual planning process where we take into account our progress, solicit input from our members, and evaluate our priorities.

As with many non-profit organizations, the actual tasks that make up the objectives in the plan are done primarily by volunteers. IANDS is always seeking people with the time, energy, and skills to help us achieve our vision. We urge you to contact the IANDS office at services@iands.org to let IANDS know how you can help.

In addition to human resources, IANDS will need significant funding to implement these important strategies. As outlined in the current plan, we have been working hard to increase membership which provides the bulk of our operating funds. To supplement that revenue source, we are rapidly expanding the educational products and services, "fee for services," that we provide. We also are working on the infrastructure to receive planned gifts and will be fundraising for various objectives through grant proposals and constituent appeals.

Please let us have your input and any resources — time and/or funds — that will help us accomplish our mission and vision.

Please send an email to services@iands.org

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2023

2024 Strategic Goals: 1. Improve visitors' experience and engagement on IANDS's website. (Examples: Complete creation of new modern design and content changes on website; appoint a Website Content Manager) 2. Enhance organization functions and customer service. (Examples: Hire 1/4time Executive Director; create descriptions for each IANDS leadership role and working entity [committee, etc.]; create policy for IANDS presenters and podcasters promoting their own business) 3. Enhance resources for mental health support. (Examples: Expand listing of mental health professionals with transpersonal competence to include at least one referral from every [or almost every] state; revise Group Leader Handbook to include mental health response) 4. Increase IANDS's publications. (Examples: Complete production of El Yo No Muere, Segunda Edición; produce audiobook version of Impressions of NearDeath Experiences; create one-sheet/two-side Fact Sheet for NDEs and primary related experiences [ADC, SDE, etc.]; begin updating The Big Book of NDEs; pursue discussion of NDE virtual reality production)

32 29

2023

Left to Right: Kristin Mismash, Debbie James

Together We Move Forward

THANK YOU! TO OUR DONORS AND VOLUNTEERS To all the 2023 Conference volunteers: I would like to take this opportunity to express my deepest gratitude to each and every one of you who stepped up and helped out at the DC Conference. Due to the size and hotel layout this was a particularly challenging event to properly cover. That being said, you folks, the volunteer squad, did an outstanding, amazing job. I simply can't thank you all enough. I do hope and pray that each and every one of you will consider coming to and helping at the 2024 conference in Phoenix. I again thank you all from the bottom of my heart. Blessings Always and All Ways.

In service to you all, your Volunteer Support Coordinator,

Walt Scotson Walt Scotson

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2023

2023 SUPPORTER LEVEL DONORS, $10-$99 Judith D Adair Erik Alterman Karen Anderson Lynn M. Archambeault The Archedon PMH Atwater Chip Bailey Jeff Baker Anne Barlieb Aliona (Elena) Basova Sam Bensman Sheri L. Berg Marc Besenthal Sandi Bianchi Alma A. Blazquez Teresa G. Blemings Bonnie Bootsmiller Lawrence Borland Roger Boswarva Caroline Brown Frederick Burks James P. Carrigan Ellen Carroll Frank Cassady Deborah Castro Candy Cazares Laura Christman Elizabeth R. Clark Nancy Clark Ciara Clarke Julie Cluff Linda D. Cohen Sarah Cohen Brett L. Cole Norman Coleman

Deborah Conner Ellen Corson Ronn Daniels Joan Davis Chase Skylar DeMayo Vincent DeVice Duke Dominquez Dave Druz Hubert Duijsens Patricia Dunn Beth Elliott Lori A. Ellis Daniel Endy Liz Entin Glenn Erickson John Fazio Patty Ann Fowler Johann O. François-Bongarçon Marjan G Jillian M. Gallery Mark M. Giese Gary Gilman L. Suzanne Gordon Leigh Grode Neal Grossman Vincent Grundman Lisa Hagan Karen M. Hanning Diane Hanson Angela Harris Jonathan Hart Alexa R. Hartung Vickie L. Hays Donna Heim Linda Higdon

Jane Hill Donald Hoyt Isaiah J. Hulme Natasha Hulme Anne Hunter Richard Jones Lena Karlsson Janet Kasic Karen Kelsall Sandor Ketzis Chris J. Kito Keith A. Klinedinst Dora Leal Patricia Ledesma Shaun Lether Jeffrey Long Jody Long Grace Lynch Kathleen Lyon-Pingree Aneela Mahmud Donna Jean Major Judith Mandalise Dominique Margolis Regina Markey Michael L. Martin Wendy Martin Madelaine Martino Gregory Massey Suzanne Mays Pauline V. Mccune Eric Hanford Miller Iris Misshula Roberta Moore Donna L Morrow Cathy Mortimer

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2023

2023 SUPPORTER LEVEL DONORS, $10-$99 Michelle Muhart Pamela D. Nance Stacy Natzel Carol Neely June Noble Richard L. Noel Jack O'Neill Tiffany OHara Tom B Oldoski Chrystal R Osier Theresa Parrish Angela H. Patton Robert Payne Louisa Peck Patrick Pekola Alice Perkins William Peters Eric Petersen Mijiko Phelps Nancy Phillips Christopher Pihl Christi Pitliangas Arvin Prakash Christina E. Price Shelley Renaud James P. Roach Hugh Robinson Christopher Rosing Lynn K. Russell Daniel P. Rusthoi Keshia E. Santero James Schantz Kyle Schlotz Jessica Smart Judy R. Smith

Lisa Somerfleck Tammi Spring Stephen Sproates Peter J. Stathis Neil Stephens Jane L. Stoll Gordon Elbert Stoppel Sandra Sylvester Martin Tanner Alethea Tattersall Jayme K. Tener Gregory D Thompson Brenda C. Thorpe Sue M. Towey Marianna Tsemekhman Carol S. Tufts Kelly Turner Angela Vandenberg Lucy Vaughan Rex J. Vesey Ed Wageman Patricia Wagner Althea Watson Janice Weiss Charles Whitehead Monika Wiesner Monica Wiliams Rick F. Willette D Zachau Joshua Zuchter

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2023

FRIEND LEVEL DONORS, $100-$499 Susan T. Amsden Jacqueline S. Arnold Sarina Baptista James Bartelloni Howard Batie Tim Bilger Bowen Billups James Bonato Blair Bowers Amelia Jane Carson Nathan G. Castle Ray Catania The Mystic Chics W. D. & Sylvia Coffey Viorica Comaniciu Bridget Cook-Burch Anoeska Coopman-HemelsWijs Delaine Deal Adam S. Dince John A. Dobson Scott Drummond Elaine Drysdale Angela Eren Suzanne Giesemann Minda Hart Melissa M. Hayakawa Paul D. Hierholzer Doris Hoffman Janice M. Holden Debbie James Kevin Jeffers Amber Kasic Keyaunoosh Kassauei Rebecca Kastl Ryan Kelly

Mary Krzywosinski Shelly Liedtke Donald Luckett Sandra Martin Kathy M. Mason Richard Massey Erin McAdam Peter Mcdowell Kevin McNamara Evan L. Mecham Janet Melcher Karen J. Mingarelli-Booker MaryJo Myers-Mount Yumi Nakauchi Greg Northman Greg Pacini Denise Pastoor Brenda Plassman Nancy Rynes David San Filippo Margarete Sandelowski Susan Scolastico Robert Sehi Rex Snyder Michael Squire Heather Tesch Ronald C. Thomson VenusVal Tower Rocky Trainer Ralph J. Turner Rebecca Suzanne Valla Vincent Vasil Carol Vengroff

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2023

LEADER LEVEL DONORS, $500-$999 Rebecca Austill-Clausen Cathy Gabrielsen Bruce J. Horacek Richard Kohr David G. Morris Donald Padelford

Ruth Rydstedt Michele Theberge Vince & Violet Louise Vasil Nancy Walsh Alie Ward

BENEFACTOR LEVEL DONORS, $1,000-$4,900 Elan Argil Diane K. Corcoran William DeWitt Bruce Greyson Kenneth A. Lasorella Robert Mays Dan Punzak

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2023

GROUPS & EVENTS CERTIFIED FACILITATOR VOLUNTEERS Jeff Balfoort Stephanie Bradbury Catherine Chapey Loreli Drache Daniel Endy Mary Grace Betty Guadagno Cheryl Hansen Angela Harris Susan Hebard Howie Hibbs

Debra Ann Kaiser Keyaunoosh Kassauei Richard Knecht Elke Macartney David Maginley Michael Martin Gregory Massey Mary (Kathy) McDaniel Liz Miller Yumi Nakauchi Cassandra Ricks

Rabbi Steven Robbins Diane Ross Bethany Silver Christian Sundberg Gregory Thompson VenusVal Tower Leena Zafary

Learn More

IANDS Groups and Events Facilitators Left to Right: Daniel Endy, Keshia Santero, Loreli Drache, Betty Guadagno, Shaun Lether, Keyaunoosh Kassauei, VenusVal Tower, Angela Harris, Susan Hebard, Leena Zafary

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2023

CONFERENCE VOLUNTEERS Lynda Adamson Matt Adkins Huda Alyacuoby Lynn Archambeault Jacqueline Arnold Rebecca Austill-Clausen Alma Blazquez Lynda Adamson Matt Adkins Huda Alyacuoby Lynn Archambeault Alma Blazquez Karrie Burns Kim Burrows Joe Cardenas Loretta Castillo Ray Catania Jelani Clay Shannon Collier Holly Conlon Maureen Cunningham Linda Cushing Sonali Dash Delaine Deal Vincent deVice Felice DiMartino Loreli Drache Bill Eiglses Tony Eller Lilibet Elling Daniel Endy Angela Eren Julia Fischer Jim Fisher Sandy Fitzgerald Lamont Gates Mike Glenn

Betty Guadagno Maria Lupita Gurule Alex Haley Julie Hanna Angela Harris LeeAnn Hart Jan Holden Elissa Hope Debbie James Keyaunoosh Kassauei Mike Kryzwosinski Laurie Krzywosinski Jules Labonte Angie LaRue Sharon Lee Manfred Lehnhoff Robert LeMar Shaun Lether Judith Mandalise Sandra Martin Kathy Mason Robert Mays Janice Messino Kristin Mismash Marie Mohn Maryann Moran Dave Morris Bryan Murray Tonda Nampaio-Cardenas Pamela Nance Danijela Nardelli Francoise E Netter Santa Oldham Eva Papaefthemiou Thomas Parsons Aaron Powell Kristin Powers

David Prestidge Christina Price Elizabeth Ray Joan Riley Robert Russell Keshia Santero Walt Scotson Leah Sirkus Ellen Sklaver Judy Smith Sue-Anne Solem Aleefia Somji Emilie Spear Maryann Sperry Paul Sperry Kristin Stelmazewski Martina Straub Charles (Chuck) Swedrock Martin Tanner Kornel Tas Jayme Tener Kimberley Thompson VenusVal Tower Melisa Uchida Carol Vengroff Nancy Walsh Anamaria Whalen David Williamson Greg Wilson Angie Wilson-Quayle Deidre Witt Maltby Jonaathan You Leena Zafary

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2023

HEALERS FOR 2023 CONFERENCE Sarina Baptista Karen Bulluck Joseph M. Cardenas Caroline Chang Bridget Cook-Burch Donna Davis Dr. Karen Dixson Susan Hebard Kevin Jeffers Keyaunoosh Kassauei Don Luckett Evan Mecham Lisa Millar Tonda Nampaio-Cardenas Santa B. Oldham Pamela Paris B. Gail Peacock Ashley RihaAshley Raney Rogers Walt Scotson Cheryl Shotwell Purnima Sinha Michelle Syner Marcus Walther Godfrey Woelk

Assistant Healing Coordinators (Debbie James’s awesome daughters): Karrie Burns, Assistant Healing Coordinator Kristin Stelmazewski, Assistant Healing Coordinator

297+ Volunteers Provided Service Hours in 2023

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2023

Together We Move Forward

IANDS LEADERSHIP BRINGING OUR COMMUNITY TOGETHER

LOCAL GROUP LEADERS United States

ARIZONA IANDS Tucson Arizona - Chuck Swedrock Northwest Valley Arizona IANDS - Timothy Dombek CALIFORNIA IANDS Orange County, CA - Janet Wood IANDS North Bay, CA - Ritch Davidson Sacramento IANDS - Richard Knecht Sacramento IANDS-Katherine Knecht San Luis Obispo IANDS - William Letson Santa Barbara IANDS - Barbara Bartolome South Bay IANDS - Charles Rader COLORADO Boulder Bee’s and IANDS - Jaqueline Arnold CONNECTICUT IANDS Farmington, CT - Tina Angeli IANDS Farmington, CT - Jack Lardis IANDS Farmington, CT - Dr. Bethany Silver FLORIDA Florida Cape Coral IANDS - Liz Burton North Florida IANDS - Dr. David Whittinghill Sarasota IANDS - Dr. Robert Waxman South Florida IANDS - Gail Fein Space Coast IANDS - Deborah Davis GEORGIA Atlanta IANDS - Tia Renee Atlanta IANDS - Theresa Iles HAWAII Hawaiian IANDS - Shaun Lether KANSAS IANDS Kansas City - Annamaria McBride

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2023

MARYLAND Columbia IANDS - Shirley St. Michael IANDS Eastern Shore - David LaMotte MASSACHUSETTS Greater Boston IANDS - Susan Hebard MISSISSIPPI IANDS Central Mississippi - Shelley Johnson MISSOURI IANDS Central Missouri - Loreli Drache IANDS St. Louis - Bob Meinz MONTANA IANDS Central Montana - Walt Scotson NEVADA IANDS Las Vegas - Leena Zafary NEW MEXICO IANDS Los Alamos - Larry Hill NEW YORK IANDS Syracuse - Judy Cook NORTH CAROLINA IANDS Asheville - Greg Lathrop IANDS Durham - Susan Amsden IANDS Greensboro - Sanna Festa OHIO IANDS Cincinnati - Matt Petersman OKLAHOMA IANDS Oklahoma City - John Tautfest OREGON IANDS Portland - Greg Thompson PENNSYLVANIA Lehigh Valley IANDS - Petra Frese Philadelphia IANDS - Daniel Endy IANDS Western, PA - Karen Heasley RHODE ISLAND IANDS Rhode Island - Ben Riggs TEXAS Central Texas IANDS - Klem Schmidt Dallas/Fort Worth IANDS - Dr. Janice Holden & Pete Quortrup IANDS Houston - Pat Johnson

UTAH IANDS SLC - Craig Miller IANDS SLC - Martin Tanner VIRGINIA IANDS Northern VA - Angie Wilson Quayle IANDS Purcellville, VA - Cheryl Hansen IANDS Williamsburg, VA - Dr. Charles Webb Virginia Beach IANDS - Neil Helm WASHINGTON Seattle IANDS - Kimberly Clark Sharp WASHINGTON, DC IANDS Washington, DC - Dr. Keyaunoosh Kassauei

42

2023

INTERNATIONAL GROUP LEADERS AUSTRALIA Brisbane, Australia - Sheryl Gottschall BELGIUM Flanders/Limen Belgium - Raymond Saerens Flanders/Limen Belgium - Gerar Naessens Flanders/Limen Belgium - Paul Robbrecht Flanders/Limen Belgium - Kathia Bracke Flanders/Limen Belgium - Johan Van den Broeck Flanders/Limen Belgium - Regina Coopman Flanders/Limen Belgium - Carina Dobbelaere CANADA British Columbia IANDS - Jose Hernandez Vancouver, British Columbia IANDS - Ross Waddell DENMARK Denmark IANDS - Mette Thygesen FRANCE IANDS of Paris - Laurence Roussel GERMANY German Friends of IANDS - Dr. Joachim Nicolay Near-Death Experiences Munich - Josef Hornung Near-Death Experiences Munich - Thomas Angerpointner Magdeburg, Germany - Daniela Hanke Hessen, Germany - Bernhard Laux Hessen, Germany - Heike Sucky GREAT BRITAIN London IANDS - Renata Bartoli, PhD HUNGARY Hungary IANDS - Putnokine Piroska

IRAN IANDS Iran - Alinaghi Ghasemiannejad Jahromi, PhD NETHERLANDS Netwerk NDE - Rinus van Warven Netwerk NDE - Rudolf Smit Netwerk NDE - Gert Can Netwerk NDE - Marianne Blankestein Netwerk NDE - Douwe Reekers Netwerk NDE - Ansjelien Bos Netwerk NDE - Eva Dunlop ISRAEL Israel IANDS - Hila Baruch SPAIN ECM Islas Canaria - Judith Schjorring IBLOBY Foundation - Javier Melo Bulbena SOUTH AFRICA Pretoria, South Africa IANDS - Loraine Magda SWITZERLAND Swiss IANDS - Reto Eberhard Rast, MD

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2023

IANDS BOARD OF DIRECTORS Janice Holden, EdD, LPC-S, ACMHP President (2020-) Residence: Texas Occupation: NDE researcher; Professor Emerita of Counseling, University of North Texas, Denton (1988-2019) Experience: IANDS member, 1985-present; IANDS Board, 20002006; IANDS Secretary, 2003; IANDS President, 2004-2006; Dallas-Fort Worth Friends of IANDS founder and leader, 2002present; Editor, Journal of Near-Death Studies, 2008-present; IANDS Board, 2020-present Martin Tanner, JD Vice President (2021) Residence: Utah Occupation: Mediator, Consultant and Radio Talk Show Host Experience: IANDS member; Salt Lake City IANDS Board of Directors; IANDS Board, 2020-present; IANDS Governance Committee chair, 2020-present Robert Mays, BSc Treasurer (2020) Residence: North Carolina Occupation: NDE researcher (consciousness, veridical perceptions), retired Senior Software Engineer, retired science teacher Experience: IANDS member; Finance, Publications, Research, Technology, & Website Committees; IANDS Board member and Treasurer: 2009-2018, 2020-present

44

2023

Janet Melcher, PhD, LISW-S Secretary (2021) Residence: Ohio Occupation: University of Cincinnati School of Social Work 1990-present; UCS SSW BSW Field Coordinator Experience: IANDS Board, 2020-present Deborah Conner, MA Residence: Nova Scotia, Canada Occupation: The Wisdom of Us founder & Coach; Reiki practitioner.

Experience: IANDS member, 2017-present; IANDS Board Member, 2023; Development Chair 2023 Bob Coppes, PhD Residence: Amsterdam, The Netherlands Occupation: NDE Researcher; Author Experience: IANDS member, 2002-present; IANDS Board Member, 2023; International Groups Coordinator 2023present Daniel Endy, BSCE Residence: South Carolina Occupation: Acognita, Inc. Founder Experience: IANDS member, 2015-present; IANDS Board Member, 2019, 2021-present; Technical Committee 2019; Website Committee 2021-present Angela Harris, BAEd Residence: North Carolina Occupation: Educator Experience: IANDS Groups and Events Director 2021-2023, IANDS Board Member, 2023-present

45

2023

Debbie James, MSN, RN, CCRN-K Residence: Texas Occupation: Critical Care Clinical Nurse Specialist Experience: IANDS Board, 1995-2008, 2011-2017, 2020present; IANDS Conference Coordinator, 1996-2006, 2010; IANDS Conference Co-Chair, 2021; Education Committee Co-Chair, 2020-present; Ethics Committee Co-Chair, 2020present David Maginley, MA, MDiv, CSCP Residence: Nova Scotia, Canada Occupation: Spiritual Care Practitioner, Therapist, Author, retired Palliative Care Chaplain Experience: IANDS member, 2012-present, Ethics Committee, 2023-present, IANDS Board Member, 2024-present Evan Mecham, MA Residence: Colorado Occupation: President & Founder of Conversations to Heal the Heart - Transpersonal Therapies Experience: IANDS Groups Coordinator, IANDS Board Member, 2023-present Maryann Sperry, BAEd, BBA Residence: Colorado Occupation: Graphic Designer Experience: Marketing/Media, Vital Signs Graphic Designer, IANDS Board Member, 2022-present

46

2023

BOARD COMMITTEE CHAIRS Bruce Greyson, MD IANDS co-founder; IANDS Past President; Consulting Editor, Journal of Near-Death Studies Residence: Virginia Occupation: Professor Emeritus of Psychiatry, University of Virginia Experience: IANDS Board, 1981-1992; Editor, Journal of NearDeath Studies, 1982-2008 (26 years!)

Katie Connolly, CPA Media Council Residence: Colorado Occupation: Certified Public Accountant Served since 2017 Delaine Deal, BA Conference Committee Residence: Colorado Occupation: Events Coordinator Ginette Nachman, MD Education Committee Co-chair Residence: North Carolina Occupation: Clinical Psychologist Experience: Spiritually-Oriented Psychotherapist, previous IANDS Director of Research, previous member IANDS Physicians Advisory Board, Co-chair IANDS Education Committee

47

2023

Kristin Mismash Conference Committee Residence: Utah Occupation: Events Coordinator Assistant

Walt Scotson, MDiv Residence: Montana Experience: Volunteer Coordinator

Rebecca Valla, MD Ethics Committee Co-chair Residence: North Carolina Occupation: Psychiatrist Experience: Outpatient Adult Psychiatrist, Spiritually-Oriented Psychotherapist, IANDS Board Member, 6 yrs, Co-Chair of IANDS Ethics Committee Marjorie Woollacott, PhD Director of Research Occupation: Professor Emerita of Neuroscience, University of Oregon; Researcher in the field of rehabilitation, cognition, & meditation

STAFF

Susan Amsden, BSc Residence: North Carolina IANDS Office Manager; Editor of Vital Signs; New Groups Mentor; Durham RT IANDS Group Leader Occupation: Business Specialist Experience: IANDS staff, Tucson & Mesa IANDS Group CoLeader 2010-2015; Durham RT IANDS Group Leader, 2015present; IANDS Board, 2018-2022.

48

2023

A Year's Overview

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS Membership dues were increased by 10%, the first rate increase since 2006.

Membership grew by an unprecedented amount. The new membership benefits added 205 new members in the first six months of the new membership benefits program. The net effect is that our membership revenue increased by $14,600.00 and will possibly have an increase of $20,000.00 for 2024. This increase contributes greatly to fulfilling our mission!

Revenue Conference & Symposium Revenue Membership and Subscriptions Donations Light the Way donations Veterans donations IANDS Groups &Events donations Other restricted donations Donations IANDS Groups & Events Revenue Other Revenue Total Revenue

$190,420 $106,810 $19,190 $2,610 $3,040 $1,950

$26,790 $26,430 $17,690 $368,140 Left to Right: Louisa Peck, Chris Batts

49

2023

Expenses Conference & Symposium Expenses Facilities & Operation Expenses Business Management & Payroll Expenses IANDS Groups & Events Expenses Vital Signs Expenses Journal of Near-Death Studies Expenses Restricted Program Expenses

$127,630 $75,370 $40,190 $47,650 $11,340 $8,120 $7,770

Total Expenses

$318,070

Net Revenue

$50,070

Balance Sheet-December 2023 Assets Current Assets Unrestricted Funds Restricted Funds Other Current Assets Total Current Assets Other Assets Total Assets Liabilities and Equity Current Liabilities Total Liabilities Starting Equity Net Revenue Total Equity Total Liabilities and Equity

$347,160 $34,915 $11,749 $393,824 $22,432 $416,256

$51,592 $51,592 $314,618 $50,046 $364,664 $416,256

50

2023

2023 Revenue Total Revenue $368,00.00 Membership and Subscriptions Conference & Symposium Donations Donations 26790

Groups & Events

Other Revenue

Other Revenue 17690

Groups & Events 26000

Membership and Subscriptions 106810

Conference & Symposium 190420

51

2023

2023 Expenses Total Expenses $318,000 Net Revenue $50,000 Facilities & Operation Expenses Conference & Symposium Expenses Business Management & Payroll Expenses IANDS Groups & Events Expenses Vital Signs Expenses Journal of Near-Death Studies Expenses Restricted Program Expenses Vital Signs Expenses 11340

Facilities & Operation Expenses 75370

IANDS Groups & Events Expenses 47650

Business Management & Payroll Expenses 40190

Conference & Symposium Expenses 127630

52

2023

Left to Right: Maria Lupita Gurule, Ray Catania

2023 Donations Total Donations $27,000 Light the Way donations

Veterans donations

IANDS Groups & Events donations Other Restricted donations IANDS Groups & Events donations 3040

Veterans donations 2610

Light the Way donations 19190

53

2023

Together, with your help!

WE’RE REACHING NEW HEIGHTS! 28,800+ PEOPLE SERVED

$370,000.00 REVENUE

The value of IANDS is seen in the number of people served through the conference, symposium, local groups, and IANDS Groups & Events offerings.

Our community is motivated to engage with IANDS.

IANDS is financially sound. We want to grow our services to provide support to more people in better ways. Please continue to donate to help us fulfill our mission. Together we can change the world and reach new heights!

1080+ HOURS OF CONTENT

970+ SHARING GROUPS

We put our values into action through experiencer stories, sharing current research, podcasts, workshops, a conference, a symposium, and local groups. More than 1,080 hours of content was provided in 2023.

Safe, supporting sharing groups were led by our local groups leaders and our highly trained online sharing groups facilitators throughout 2023. IANDS provided more types of groups than ever before.

54 IANDS.ORG | CONTACT 919-383-7940 | SERVICES@IANDS.ORG

Together WE ARE -

REACHING NEW HEIGHTS

2023 Annual Report

www.iands.org

2741 Campus Walk Ave. services@iands.org Building 500 Durham, NC 22705-8878, USA 919-383-7940