Dana (Generosity)
Dana Contribution to Course Leaders:
It is important to note that most Dharma centre teachers do not receive fees for their teaching but are dependent on the generosity of student donations. We recommend that $30 per day is a reasonable minimum contribution in support of Course Leaders. Another way to look at what's appropriate for working persons is to multiply the hours of teaching by your own hourly rate.
Dana refers to “a gift freely and joyfully given”, and therefore the giving itself and the actual amount given is to be determined by students themselves.
Note: While for some Course Leaders the practice of Dana may apply, others may operate on a fee for services basis which may then be calculated within an inclusive course fee.
Equipment and Materials Needed
- Good clean woolen blankets, used or new
- Small electric fans, for hot summers
- Professional cooking pots and pans
- Professional quality food processor
- Peppercorn grinders
Library Donations Needed
- Developments in the sciences since the 1980s
- Good general history reference books
- Biographies of influential and inspirational people
- Excellent Buddha Dharma books
- Poetry
Adopt a Cabin Project
If you have a pet project that you are willing to finance and carry out, please let the Board of Directors know. You could participate as an individual or as part of a small group. More details to follow...
Server-Meditators Needed
Please consider spending time (short or long-term) at the Dharma Centre as a Server-Meditator. There are several openings starting immediately. Our Advising Teacher, Karma Chime Wongmo, is available to give support and guidance to anyone coming up as a Server-Meditator.
Our Server-Meditator program is offered to those wishing to explore the integration of their Dharma practice into the activities of daily life while living and working in a meditation/study environment. Server- Meditators are asked to give four hours daily of service work, usually in the kitchen or on the grounds, and are expected to combine that work with personal meditation practice or participation in an existing retreat or course.
We are reminded daily here that Server-Meditators are an indispensable component for the smooth running of the Dharma Centre. These volunteers agree to work a minimum of four hours per day in exchange for accommodation and the waiving of course fees. (Server-Meditators agree to pay a modest daily amount for meals (see 'Rates') and offer dana for teachers when they attend courses).
Participating in the running of the Dharma Centre, the benefit for Server-Meditators is twofold: s/he has an opportunity to experience both meditation and daily work life in a supportive environment, and our staff receive extra help which translates into better support for all courses and meditators on property.
We'll try our best to match your skills and interest with work that needs to be done at the Centre.