Hung Syllable surrounded by Vajra Guru Mantra.

Volunteer at Rigdzin Ling

The work/study program at Rig­dzin Ling supports Chagdud Rinpoche's activity of bringing dharma to the West through the establishment of centers, the training of students in all areas of the Vajrayana and the translation and publication of practice texts and commentaries. From the point of view of each student's train­ing, it serves as an opportunity for the swift purification of karma and accumu­lation of merit through the profound prac­tice of guru yoga.

Dog watching volunteers working in the gardens at Buddhist retreat center.

How to Become a Volunteer

1

Learn about volunteering

Read the information below about the benefits, guidelines, expectations and schedule for volunteers.

2

Fill out an application

Our downloadable PDF application form can be found below. Print it, fill it out and send it to volunteer@chagdudgonpa.org.

3

Start your journey

Once your application is received you’ll hear back from the front office. If approved, we’ll coordinate the best date for your arrival.

Benefits of Being a Volunteer

Rigdzin Ling is a beautiful Tibetan Buddhist center located in a remote and serene environment. The following are offered to volunteers:

  • An environment that encourages deep growth and development

  • A supportive community with other spiritual practitioners

  • Informal teachings with the Resident Lama and visiting Lamas

  • Opportunity to receive personal guidance from the Resident Lama

  • Room and board

Guidelines for Volunteers

Applicants from all backgrounds, regardless of race, age, education, religion, or sexual orientation, are welcome.

Volunteers should have the following qualities:

  • Dedication to training one’s own mind

  • Physical, mental, emotional stability and resilience

  • Ability to work well alone and in groups

  • Ability to communicate clearly and respectfully to others

  • Financial stability to sustain personal needs (medical, transport, bills, debt, etc)

  • Genuine interest in living in a Buddhist center

Note: Please do not apply if you are coping with major unresolved emotional or mental health issues, or have recently quit smoking, using drugs, or begun a recovery program or medication regimen.

Applicants must be 18 years or older.  If under 18 years old, applicant must be accompanied and supervised by a legal guardian.

Volunteer inspecting bell used for Buddhist meditation.

Expectations of Volunteers

In addition to the above guidelines, volunteers are expected to:

  • Work at least 6.5 hours per day Monday-Friday, and 3 hours on Saturday. All staff and volunteers receive time off on Saturday afternoon and Sunday (except during events).

  • Attend daily meditations (puja) and help with weekly rotational tasks such as cleaning, dish washing, shrine maintenance, cooking, meal service

  • Work extra hours during events

  • Keep personal and community areas clean to receive guests at any time

  • Understand there is no monetary compensation

  • Not bring pets (if you have a service animal, please note that on your application)

  • Not smoke, use illegal drugs, or overuse alcohol

Daily Schedule

Monday – Friday

7:30am-8:30am

Morning meditation

8:30am-9:30am

Breakfast break

9:30am-1:00pm

Work period

1:00pm-2:00pm

Lunch break

2:00pm-5:00pm

Work period

5:30pm-6:45pm

Evening meditation

Saturday

9:00am-10:45am

Morning meditation

10:45am-12:00pm

Breakfast break

12:00pm-3:00pm

Work period

sunday

9:00am-10:45am

Morning meditation

Note: The above schedule is subject to change and does not apply to events

Open Positions

  • Full-time groundskeeper

  • Customer service representative for Tibetan Treasures

Contact Info

Upon submission, the administrative staff will review your application. If approved you will be contacted and arrangements will be made.

For questions about volunteering or to submit an application:

volunteer@chagdudgonpa.org
Chagdud Gonpa Rigdzin Ling
​PO Box 279
Junction City, CA 96048
530.623.2714  ext 1026

download application