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Volunteering

 

For those who have the time and don't mind cloudy weather, I encourage you to consider a period of volunteering at Sea to Sky Retreat Centre as a way of connecting with the blessings of the Khyentse lineage.  Even for those who are not so-called Buddhists, benefit will come from a period of residence in a place that encourages a simplified life-style and a reduced demand on the environment.  As society becomes more materialistic, the need increases for wilderness sanctuaries of quiet and contemplation.  Whatever can be done to support such sanctuaries is an act of compassion with great merit.

Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche

 

The work of sustaining a sanctuary for contemplative practice includes an ever-changing medley of basic tasks such as cooking, cleaning, the setup of spaces, carpentry, gardening, wood splitting, building maintenance, and roadwork.  No special skills are required.  With the following aptitudes and values listed below, you can be expected to enjoy a successful and rewarding experience of helping out at Sea to Sky Retreat Centre (SSRC): 

 

Ÿ        Willing to learn

Ÿ        Flexible

Ÿ        Cheerful

Ÿ        Energetic

Ÿ        Enjoys teamwork

Ÿ        Good communicator

Ÿ        Willing to accept direction

Ÿ        No addictions (alcohol, nicotine, or any other drugs)

Ÿ        Good physical and mental health

Ÿ        Willing to live a life of moderation in a remote location in the wilderness

Ÿ        Appreciates the interdependence of personal needs, economic realities, and environmental  balance (see SSRC's Sustainability Plan)

Ÿ        Dedication to work as a path of practice 

  
Those who are not Canadian may require a visa as a pre-requisite of volunteering at SSRC.  However young people from Australia, the US, the UK and a number of European countries may qualify for Canadian 'working holiday' visas that are offered by Canadian Embassies in those countries. Such visas have minimal requirements and can be obtained with relative ease. Room and board are offered to volunteers residing at SSRC. Also, resident volunteers may qualify for any SSRC staff positions that become available.

 

For further information about volunteer programs at the Retreat Centre, please contact us as indicated below:

 

Contact information

 

Retreat Manager

Sea to Sky Retreat Centre

84 Retreat Road

Whistler, B.C. V0N 1B1

Canada

E-mail: ssrc@siddharthasintent.org

Cellular: 604-932-1677