Insight Meditation Society (IMS) is one of the oldest and most respected meditation retreat centers in the Western world, offering a spiritual refuge for those seeking freedom of mind and heart based on Buddhist meditation practices, including vipassana (insight) and metta (lovingkindness).  Set on nearly 400 acres of secluded woodlands in central Massachusetts, IMS operates two retreat facilities: the Retreat Center and the Forest Refuge. They also run a month-long volunteer program, offering food and accommodation, where volunteers assist with the daily operations of the retreat.

 About the month-long volunteer program

The month-long service volunteer positions at IMS are for those who wish to integrate meditation practice with daily life in a supportive, friendly environment. Applicants must have an established meditation practice and at least two week-long retreats at IMS in the past ten years. All volunteers will undergo a criminal background check and must follow IMS’s Covid-19 testing protocols.

Volunteers work alongside Maintenance and Housekeeping staff in exchange for meals, housing, and access to the retreat community. They also have regular meditation interviews with the Resident Teacher(s). The service commitment is about 30 hours per week, with two days off. Tasks vary based on applicants’ skills and IMS needs. Service runs from the 1st through the last day of the month.

Volunteer tasks can be physically demanding, involving lifting, carrying, pushing, pulling up to 50 pounds, and standing or bending for long periods. Applicants must be able to perform these tasks safely.

It is important to note that IMS welcomes staff members from all backgrounds and beliefs.

Maintenance and Housekeeping duties include:

• gardening,
• lawn care, and trail maintenance in warm weather,
• and snow removal in winter.
• Volunteers also clean common spaces, guest rooms, laundry, and offices, and assist with special projects like window washing.
• They may help with Opening Day tasks such as greeting guests, giving tours, and training bell ringers.

Volunteers will work with cleaning chemicals, which may be challenging for those with sensitivities.

What’s in it for You?

• Free food and accommodation is provided.
• Wifi connection.

Video

Map

Accomodation offer

You might need to book a cheap accommodation on your way to Massachusetts, USA. If you book your stay through our website, you support hopperjobs.com to list more great and free job opportunities worldwide. Click here for booking!

Flight offer

You’ll probaly need to book a cheap flight to to Boston, USA. If you book your flight through our website, you support hopperjobs.com to list more great and free job opportunities worldwide. Click here for booking!