Membership

We invite anyone interested in the Kootenay Shambhala Centre to consider becoming a member. Being a member of our Centre means being a member of the worldwide Shambhala community.

Shambhala is a global network of people who have confidence in the fundamental goodness and worthiness of humanity, and the power of that goodness to shift the social and environmental dynamics of our planet.

For more about the worldwide Shambhala community see Shambhala.

Membership is a way to express appreciation for what Shambhala provides and help make it available to others. This involves three areas of engagement and support:

Practicing meditation – Making a connection to mindfulness-awareness meditation or related contemplative practice and integrating this practice into daily life is considered the best way for members to support Shambhala and benefit the world and ourselves.

Volunteering – All of the work of the Kootenay Shambhala Centre and much of the work of the Shambhala global community is done by volunteers. Giving our time and talents to the work of the community is a vital form of support and viewed as part of members’ practice.

Providing financial support – We rely on membership dues to pay our basic operating expenses and view financial giving as part of our practice as well. Kootenay Shambhala Centre dues are $45 per month. Members are welcome to give more than this amount, or less if necessary.

Membership Benefits

While membership is primarily an expression of appreciation and support, it also brings opportunities to build connections and other benefits. These include:

  • Membership recognition and pin
  • Invitations to special member events
  • Access to the Kootenay Shambhala Centre library
  • Access to resources in the Members section on Shambhala’s central website
  • Opportunities to serve as staff and receive related training
  • Eligibility to participate in Kootenay Shambhala Centre governance
  • Eligibility to apply to attend advanced programs
  • Eligibility to apply for financial assistance to attend advanced programs, through the Kootenay Shambhala Scholarship Fund
  • Keys to the Kootenay Shambhala Centre (as needed)

Becoming a Member

Once we receive your form we’ll be able to guide you through the new member orientation process.

Questions? Talk to us in person or email us at [email protected].