Volunteering – Working Guests

There are two types of Working Guests at IMS. Some are recruited to provide operational support during certain annual courses – specifically the Family, Teen and Staff Retreats – more details here.

Others come for stays typically lasting one month. In the warm weather, they help care for IMS’s grounds. At other times, they assist with housekeeping and maintenance tasks.

Month-long Working Guests

Openings 2013

All month-long working guest openings for 2013 are full.

The month-long Working Guest positions are designed for those who want to volunteer at IMS and integrate practice with daily life, all within a supportive and friendly environment. Applicants must already have an established meditation practice, and retreat experience at IMS of at least one week.

Working Guest volunteers work alongside our Facilities staff in exchange for meals, housing, and access to the retreat environment and staff community. There are also regular interviews about meditation with our Resident Teacher(s). Work is approximately 30 hours per week, with two days off each week.

In the warmer weather, tasks includes gardening, maintenance of lawns and trails, and tree husbandry. As well, help may be needed indoors on general maintenance or housekeeping projects, such as painting or window washing. Work during the winter months includes snow removal and indoor work such as deep cleaning, laundry and other activities.

Landscaping and maintenance experience is preferred but not required.

Month-long Working Guest tasks are at times strenuous and physically demanding, so it is essential that applicants are fit and in good health.

To apply

If you are interesting in applying, please use this form.

Working Guest Application Form (PDF)
Working Guest Application Form (Word)

Contact

For questions regarding this program, please contact Kelly Collett at hr@dharma.org or 978-355-4378 ext. 335.

Thank you for your interest in serving IMS!