Volunteer Program
contribute. gain skills. grow.
Please note: We are currently accepting volunteer applications for May and September of 2009.
The Volunteer Program at the Kripalu Center for Yoga & Health is an empowering, educational opportunity to embrace your authentic self through service, the practice of yoga, and community living.
We recruit volunteers who are mature, motivated, and committed to producing thriving and health in individuals and society. As a participant, you will be challenged to grow in new and dynamic ways while exploring what it means to thrive and to live a fulfilled life. In this program, you will be exposed to a wide variety of tools to strengthen your practice of self-inquiry, to deepen your awareness of your physical, emotional, and energetic bodies, and to assist you in developing effective communication and healthy relationships. Each volunteer is invited and encouraged to take personal responsibility in making the most of their volunteer experience.
service requirements
Volunteering was a forum for me to understand how I work best—both independently and with others. The supportive environment was very conducive to self-development and provided accountability and inspiration to transform personal and professional trouble areas. I felt the kind of empowerment that accompanies the ability to make strong, informed personal and professional decisions.—Nicole A., student, Bennington College, Vermont
work
Volunteers play a vital role in supporting and creating a positive and transformative guest experience. We require that volunteers contribute 35 hours of service per week, 5 days a week with 2 days off. Applications are currently being accepted for May and September of 2009 and require a four-month commitment.
Volunteers serve in one of the following areas:
- Kripalu Kitchen—veggie prep, kitchen stewards, bakery
- Production Support—set up program rooms and supplies, interact with guests and presenters, manage inventory, computer tasks, and test audiovisual equipment
- Facilities—paint, move furniture, and assist with general labor in the building and on the grounds. Volunteer positions are available for people with experience in the building trades.
- Office Support—assist with office tasks including computer support.
community
Participation in the life of the volunteer community is expected. This includes practicing nonviolent communication and unconditional positive regard for others. To support us in this process attendance is required at bi-weekly peer mentoring and weekly Off the Mat programs. Beyond this, we invite each volunteer to take initiative in creating and nurturing healthy relationships within the volunteer community.
We offer yoga and workshop opportunities designed especially for volunteers, including
- Weekly Yoga Off the Mat workshops, including presentations by senior Kripalu faculty, personal reflection and journaling, and community activities and discussions related to yoga and health
- Twice-weekly Kripalu Yoga classes
- Exclusive volunteer workshops and events created and led by fellow volunteers.
- Twice-monthly peer-mentor groups.
I embarked on a terrific journey of learning, spiritual awakening, and fellowship! I learned some very important lessons about teamwork and the need to participate fully in the tasks at hand. I look very much forward to my next Seva experience.—Chuck N., independent business owner, Crystal Lake, Illinois
When you aren’t working you can enjoy the following:
- Daily Kripalu Yoga and YogaDanceTM classes
- R&R workshops
- Evening events and workshops
Kripalu Environment
- Enjoy full use of Kripalu’s facilities, including whirlpool, sauna, fitness room, lakefront beach, nearby hiking trails, labyrinth, and more
- Live in same-gender dormitory housing
- Enjoy three healthy meals per day from our whole-foods kitchen
- Live in a community of people practicing an engaged, modern, spiritual lifestyle.
application process
Volunteer positions begin and end the first Monday of May and September. There is a $50 nonrefundable application processing fee. All non-U.S. applicants must pay with a check or money order drawn on an American bank in U.S. funds, and payable to Kripalu Center. Download an application in Adobe Acrobat format. If you don’t already have Adobe Acrobat, you can download it here. You may fax your filled-out application to 413-448-3384.
Note The Kripalu Volunteer Program is very popular; unfortunately, we are not able to accept everyone who applies.
tuition fee
A tuition fee of $200 goes toward you four-month stay as a volunteer at Kripalu. This fee is due upon acceptance into the program in order to hold your place in the program. All non-U.S. applicants must pay with either a credit card or with a check drawn on an American bank in U.S. funds, and payable to Kripalu Center.
cancellation policy
If you cancel 14 or more days prior to your arrival date, payments made will be refunded in full (less a $50 application processing fee). If you cancel between 13 days and 1 day in advance, a nonrefundable credit (less a $50 processing fee) will be held for one year from date of issue (can be used toward any Kripalu program). No credit or refund is available in the event of the following situations: if you cancel less than 24 hours in advance; if you cancel on arrival day; if you are a no-show; or if you leave the program for a reason other than one that constitutes an emergency.
Click here for more information about Kripalu.
If you have additional questions, please e-mail us, or call 413-448-3123.
staff positions
Interested in employment at Kripalu? Join a growing team of great people doing great work. Job Opportunities
FAQs
Can I serve for less than four months (PATH)?
A minimum four-month commitment is required for 2009 volunteer sessions, which begin in May and September.
Can I start and/or end on a date other than the first Monday of the month?
To support the community orientation and departmental staffing and training needs, all volunteers start and end on the first Monday of the month.
Are the volunteer programs open to citizens of countries other than the U.S.?
Yes, we welcome volunteers from around the world. If you are accepted, we’ll send documentation that should help you to obtain the appropriate visa.
Can I fax my application or fill it out online?
We no longer accept faxes. Currently, we do not offer the capability to fill out your application online.
Do you accept credit cards for the application fee?
Not at this time. Please send a check or money order in U.S. funds payable to Kripalu Center.
What happens when I mail in my application?
When we receive your application, we’ll send a confirmation via e-mail. After your application is reviewed, we will contact you to set up a telephone interview.
How are work assignments and schedules decided?
If you are accepted as a volunteer, we determine the best position for you based on your experience and interests, and our departmental needs. Your department will give you a schedule each week. Your work hours will not exceed 35 hours per week, and your schedule may change according to departmental needs, including evening and weekend hours and split shifts.
What are the living accommodations?
Volunteers live in dormitories within the main building. The dorms have bunk beds with 8–24 residents per room. Please be aware that rooms do not have air conditioning, and it can get warm during the summer months. Fans are provided.
As a volunteer, can I pay for a private room?
No, dormitory living is an essential part of the volunteer program.
What should I bring? How much storage space will I have?
If you are accepted as a volunteer, we will send you information about what to bring and other important details.
What activities can I participate in when I’m not working?
Activities on the Retreat and Renewal schedule are open to volunteers in their free time.
Can I leave the grounds when I’m not working?
Yes, you are free to leave Kripalu when you’re not working.
Other questions?
Please e-mail volunteer@kripalu.org, or call 413-448-3123.
