Volunteer Opportunities

The Philadelphia Shambhala Center is entirely run by volunteers. Volunteering is an act of generosity and without the efforts of people like you, the Philadelphia Shambhala Center would not be able to offer all of the wonderful classes, programs, and events that enhance our practice and our lives.

Volunteering is a great way to get more involved and to feel more connected to your community. Offering our energy and talents through selfless service is a meaningful way to deepen our spiritual path. Through service, we develop and sustain the health of our Center and the greater community, while enhancing our personal growth and sense of responsibility.

How can I get involved?

You can volunteer to help at the Center by joining one of the volunteer Circles described below, either as a Circle member, or a Circle affiliate. Circle members participate in monthly meetings and help the Circle achieve its vision. Circle affiliates volunteer for specific tasks and don’t, generally, attend the Circle’s monthly meeting.

To learn more about any of the Circles, and to get involved, just click the Learn More button for the appropriate Circle below.

 


Practice & Education Circle (P&E)

The P&E Circle offers opportunities for the Center and broader community to learn and practice the dharma. The Circle supports people’s learning, growth, and development along their personal dharma path by developing and offering study and practice programs. In relation to Shambhala view and the broader community, we offer practice and educational opportunities that reflect and support the Shambhala vision of enlightened society and collective liberation.

Learn More about the Practice & Education Circle

 

Culture & Community Wellbeing Circle (CCWB)

The CCWB Circle creates and supports opportunities for everyone in our community to feel connected to the Center and to one another and is responsible for supporting membership, community groups (e.g., Monday Night Sangha, Heart of Recovery, etc.), community gatherings and celebrations (Shambhala Day, Harvest of Peace, etc.), and our community newsletter..

Learn More about the Culture & Community Wellbeing Circle

 

Care, Conduct, & Protection Circle (CCP)

The CCP Circle is responsible for: Care – Assisting the Philadelphia Shambhala community’s efforts to care for each other when folks are in need. Conduct – Helping members of the sangha work through conflict, embody social justice values, and do accountability work that reminds us of our fundamental human dignity. Protection – Providing a container for the teachings and the community to flourish through the practices and forms of the dorje kasung.

Learn More about the Care, Conduct, & Protection Circle

 

Engaged Dharma Circle

The Engaged Dharma Circle engages the PSC community in reflection, education, relationship-building, communication, and action that advances social and environmental justice both within our Center and in the wider society. Our vision encompasses a commitment to warriorship and bravery, to the Shambhala vision of enlightened society, and to the principles of Buddhism informed by contemplative practice. While our vision includes a sincere desire to reduce harm and the misuse of power at any level or in any capacity, we wish to bring significant attention to addressing the injustices of racism, sexism, classism, ableism, and homophob

Learn More about the Engaged Dharma Circle

 

Communications Circle

The Communications Circle enables the Center to interface with the sangha and the public at large. We make sure that people know about events in a timely manner so that programs / events are well attended. We also connect the sangha with current activities of the governance Circles.

Learn More about the Communications Circle

 

Finances & Facilities Circle

The Finances & Facilities Circle provides an uplifted environment for practice and programs and a solid financial base.

Learn More about the Finances & Facilities Circle

 

Thank you for your generosity!

“The Shambhala tradition provides the basis for a powerful transformation of the motivation that seeks the welfare of the world and asks its citizens to step in and find a tangible, enduring way to help. Some Shambhala warriors have become activists; many have become leaders and visionaries in their fields. Most have been inspired by the dignity and beauty of everyday human life and have found ways to contribute to the long-term goal of enlightened society.”
From “Creating Enlightened Society” by Judith Simmer Brown