Shambhala Center Membership

Many of us, once we begin to feel a connection to the Austin Shambhala Meditation Center, want to know: What's involved in becoming a member? How can I support the Center?

First of all, there is no requirement to join. Ever. Almost all of our activities are open to anyone, though many classes and trainings do have prerequisites. Meditation instruction, public meditation, and many of our introductory offerings are always offered without charge, though donations are certainly appreciated.

That said, here is some information about membership. We are a growing community of approximately 120 members, in Austin at our present location almost 30 years. We sustain ourselves primarily through our members' regular recurring donations to the Center. We are a member of the world-wide Shambhala mandala of over 150 Shambhala Centers, meditation groups, and Land Centers (see www.shambhala.org), and a percentage of Center's income supports Shambhala International. Joining the Austin Shambhala Meditation Center, one also joins the international Shambhala mandala.

Programs and classes are offered on a suggested donation basis. Your participation is encouraged at whatever level of donation you can afford, and donation above the suggested amount is gratefully accepted.

In joining the Austin Center, you commit to strengthening our community through practice, financial giving, and service. Members should have a regular meditation or contemplative practice, and an ongoing relationship with a Meditation Instructor is recommended. As an almost all-volunteer organization, we rely on members to assume most of the responsibilities in keeping our Center vital: housekeeping, building and lawn maintenance, committee membership, supporting our varied class and program offerings, and so on.

The suggested monthly contribution is $45 individual, and $80 family, though members may contribute greater or lesser amounts depending on financial circumstances. Honoring the commitment to a regular financial contribution is paramount, allowing us to plan and meet our obligations. We recommend that auto-withdrawal accounts be set up through the Ashoka Credit Union, though other donation methods are acceptable.

For more information or to become a member, contact Melinda Rothouse, Membership Coordinator.