Through work we can learn to use our energy wisely so that all of our actions are fruitful and rich.
Skillful Means
Program Details
The minimum age for applying is 21 years.
Time Commitment
The minimum commitment is 6 months to one year. Following the successful completion of the initial 6 month commitment a volunteer may request a further commitment of 6 months or longer. Our community is seeking those who wish to establish a longer-term commitment to our projects. Additional benefits are available to those making commitments of one year or more.
Stipend
All volunteers are eligible for a monthly living allowance of $150. During the first month of the commitment the volunteer receives a prorated stipend for the last 2 weeks only of their trial period. After the trial period is over, the full stipend amount of $150 per month commences.
Trial Period
Applicants accepted into the program are subject to an orientation and trial period lasting for the first month of a volunteer’s commitment. The purpose of the trial period is to confirm to our mutual agreement that the program is a good fit. During this trial period either the volunteer or the volunteer committee can decide that this is not a beneficial relationship and choose to discontinue participation in the program.
Participation
Volunteers are expected to participate fully in the daily work schedule, regular community jobs, and monthly community meetings. We also require volunteers to be on time to all activities. Attendance at the morning meditation, evening classes and ceremonies is optional, although recommended in order to receive the most benefit from living at Ratna Ling. Participation is a full-time commitment and volunteers cannot involve themselves in outside work or other volunteer or school commitments.
Basic Community Interaction
We are a peaceful community and make our best efforts to treat each other with kindness, compassion, respect, and honesty. Volunteers share rooms and common living spaces with others who may not share their background and/or lifestyle. We ask that all volunteers respect these differences and exhibit a willingness to live and work together harmoniously. We also request that couples be mindful of this sacred environment by exercising discretion regarding public displays of affection.
Vacation & Taking Time Away
Time away must be arranged during the application process. Exceptions are for the winter holiday break, doctor’s appointments and family emergencies. All other absences from work must be arranged in advance with the project leader. The work time missed must be made up.
Health Insurance
Individual health insurance is the responsibility of every resident volunteer. We provide volunteer accident insurance that covers all workplace injuries. All other health problems which are not work-related are solely the volunteer’s responsibility.
Guests and Visitors
Guests and family members are welcome for brief visits to Ratna Ling. Day visits are welcome on Sunday. Volunteers must be here 8 weeks before hosting overnight visitors.
We require that overnight guests make a minimum donation of $30 per person, per day for room and board and/or participate in our volunteer work schedule during the days of their visit. If a guest wishes to work in exchange for their room and board, they should plan on working a normal Ratna Ling work day.
All family members and guests are expected to follow community guidelines and policies.
If there are no beds available for guests of volunteers, the Timber Cove Inn is approximately 20 minutes away by car from Ratna Ling.
Alcohol
Beer or wine in moderation is permitted with a suggested limit of 2 drinks. Indulgent use of alcohol to the point of uncontrolled behavior will be cause for dismissal from the program. Hard liquor is not allowed at Ratna Ling.
It is not considered appropriate to attend ceremonies, meditation, classes or work after drinking any alcohol.
Smoking and Drugs
Ratna Ling is a non-smoking community. Volunteers and their guests are not allowed to smoke anywhere on the site or the roadway. Volunteers who choose to violate our non-smoking policy will be asked to leave Ratna Ling.
The use of illegal drugs or misuse of prescription drugs is absolutely forbidden at Ratna Ling. Drug use violates the religious precepts of the Tibetan Buddhist tradition. Although individuals may feel that marijuana is harmless or should be legal, it is definitely included in the category of drug use and absolutely not allowed at Ratna Ling. Possession of illegal drugs or paraphernalia is not permitted.
Smoking or use of illegal drugs will result in immediate dismissal from the program.