Volunteer Program

Ananda Ashram offers valuable opportunities for volunteers to deepen their spiritual practice through daily meditation, study and service in a beautiful, inspirational Ashram environment. Benefits include participation in morning and evening meditation programs with Yoga-Vedanta studies, Sanskrit and Yoga classes as well as cultural events. Contribution for overnight stay is reduced to about half of our regular guest rates. Generally, the Ashram can use help in kitchen, housekeeping and maintenance. Availability of the program is based on Ashram need.

Details:

Regular (Partial) Volunteers
With 3 hours per day or 18 hours per week of Ashram service and reduced rate for room and board

There are 4 options for volunteering: Short Term (2-6 days), Short Term Extended (1-3 weeks), Immersion Program  (listed below, 1 month) and Long Term (more than 1 month: needs application with references and approval by Management).

Contribution Rates for Partial Volunteer Program

Immersion Program

"Meditation in Action"

The month-long Ashram Immersion program gives participants the opportunity to enter into a process of self inquiry, combined with yogic practice and discipline, in an inspirational Ashram environment.

Basic orientation and training in specific areas of service (usually in kitchen, household or maintenance) are provided by senior Ashram staff. “Meditation in Action” means to work with diligence, dedication and love as a service to all beings, while practicing awareness as the witnessing Self.

The spiritual-educational component of the program, taught by experienced Ashram teachers, consists of a combination of meditation, study of the holistic philosophy of Yoga-Vedanta, chanting, Sanskrit language and Hatha Yoga classes. Cultural programs and events are also included, and additional classes and workshops may be available depending on schedule.

Once a week, Immersion program participants will attend a mentoring group meeting. They can also talk to individual mentors as needed.

Before committing for a whole month, we strongly recommend that applicants should first come and visit the Ashram as a guest, if at all possible. Availability of the program is based on Ashram need.

Details:

• Participants attend both morning & evening meditation programs and studies (approximately 1-1/2 hours each), plus one Hatha Yoga and/or Sanskrit class daily.

• Contribution of Ashram service is 3 hours per day with 1 day off per week.

Immersion Program Rates - 2020
$650/month, dorm accommodation only, or $520 if camping (in season).

• January (after New Year) & February: 10% discount on above rates

Note: There are no additional discounts on the Immersion Program Rate. (Discounts on Guest Rates do not apply.)

Application submission is recommended 30 days prior to projected arrival. Review requires 2 weeks.

For more information or to apply for the Ashram Immersion Program, please contact anandaworkstudy@gmail.com.

Ananda Beautification

Come Grow with Us in Spring, Summer or Fall!

We invite you to participate in projects such as gardening, landscaping, light construction or Ashram beautification.

This is considered a Full-Time Volunteer exchange with 5 hours per day or 30 hours per week of Ashram service. Included are campsite accommodations*, lacto-vegetarian and vegan meals and the ongoing Ashram core program: meditation, Yoga-Vedanta studies, Hatha Yoga and Sanskrit classes as well as cultural events.

Please join us throughout the seasons and help keep our buildings, gardens and grounds looking beautiful. Extra help is especially needed in spring 2019 as we once again plant our veggies, herbs and flowers. It's a great opportunity for learning organic gardening and sustainable practices for those who enjoy working outdoors and being in nature. Weather permitting. Alternative projects may be indoors.

* Note: The shower/bathroom facilities can be some distance from the campsites, so bring a flashlight and firm shoes.