In the early days of wandering from village to village, the Buddha often emphasized the relationship between generosity and meditative development, pointing out how acts of giving help to uproot clinging and grasping. In modern times, this idea—and associated practices—form the basis of the sangha’s infrastructure.  

WIMC’s recent growth serves as a reminder of the importance of the dhamma in our personal lives and in the world. As WIMC expands, it allows us to offer dedicated students the opportunity to deepen their practice through a new Stewardship Program, whereby volunteers work closely with each other, staff, and WIMC teachers to sustain both the center and its many ‘dhamma activities’.  

If you are interested in exploring the relationship between service and practice, want to help WIMC support the wider community in having access to the dhamma, and are committed to ensuring others feel welcome and encouraged when they are at WIMC, we invite you to apply to the Stewardship Program.

WIMC dhamma stewards’ primary roles revolve around opening and closing the center, and supporting both teachers and students to ensure the smooth operation of all programs and a friendly and formative student experience. This would include ensuring that the tea station and dhamma hall are set up appropriately, greeting and connecting with students, making announcements after class, and answering student questions related to future programs and center activities. Additionally, dhamma stewards might support WIMC staff in performing certain daily tasks, upkeep of the physical space, and assisting with new projects.

WHO THIS IS FOR

Those who are eligible for the Dhamma Stewardship Program (DSP) are current WIMC students with a sincere interest in volunteering, and a curiosity into how helping others might become a form of practice in one’s own dhamma path. Students in the DSP will be supported by—and work closely with—WIMC’s program manager, Max, WIMC’s guiding-teacher, Chris Crotty, and will work with WIMC’s co-spiritual director, Michael Bresnan, as well as visiting teachers throughout the year. 

APPLICATION

Participation is by application and space will be limited. Selected applicants will have the opportunity to attend at least two DSP one-day retreats throughout the year (dates TBD).