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.
Read the information below about the benefits, guidelines, expectations and schedule for volunteers.
Our downloadable PDF application form can be found below. Print it, fill it out and send it to volunteer@chagdudgonpa.org.
Once your application is received you’ll hear back from the front office. If approved, we’ll coordinate the best date for your arrival.
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
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.
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
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
9:00am-10:45am
Morning meditation
10:45am-12:00pm
Breakfast break
12:00pm-3:00pm
Work period
9:00am-10:45am
Morning meditation
Note: The above schedule is subject to change and does not apply to events
Full-time groundskeeper
Customer service representative for Tibetan Treasures
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