FAQ
What are the 2025 dates of Work-Study Resident Volunteer Program? January to end of November 2025.
We give preference to applicants who can commit to a full 8 month program. Start dates are anytime between January and May. The minimum commitment is 6 months.
What is the first step for applying to the Work-Study program?
To get started, fill out our Volunteer Inquiry form. If you are a potential match, we will send further details and the Application.
Who can apply?
Individuals and couples are welcome to apply. Couples must submit separate applications, and can house in the same room. We cannot accept children or pets.
What is the weekly schedule?
Monday to Friday is work practice with sacred art projects, construction, and gardens. Saturday mornings are classes, community clean-up and routine chores. Saturday afternoons and Sundays are open time.
What is the daily work practice schedule?
Monday to Friday: 8:00 am – 12:00 pm, 2:00 pm to 6:00 pm. Saturday morning: community clean-up and routine chores.
What is the Buddhist study and practice schedule?
Classes and study/practice sessions are held 3 weekday mornings, with an additional 2-3 classes on Saturday. There are also Tibetan yoga and mantra/meditation practice sessions open to everyone on Sunday.
Other Buddhist practices are woven into daily life such as morning practice Monday to Saturday, meal prayers, plus early evening practices in the Temples four times a month.
What about meals? Three delicious home-made vegetarian meals three times a day, six days a week with a special weekend Dinner on Saturday.
Everyone takes turns cooking. We are happy to train new cooks and work with you until you are ready to cook on your own.
Sunday: Residents are welcome to cook their own meals or use left-overs. We have a huge kitchen, a well stocked pantry and always lots of home grown fruits and vegetables.
What if I’m not vegetarian?
You must be able and willing to follow a vegetarian diet while on-site at Odiyan. Most people find they adjust well to our diet, even if they have not been vegetarian in the past.
I have food allergies and/or special dietary needs.
Due to the communal nature of our meals, we cannot practically accommodate all food allergies or dietary preferences at every meal. We generally are able to accommodate vegan, gluten free and some common allergies such as peanuts or soy.
What is the housing situation?
Each room accommodates two people, simply furnished, having a sink, closet, shelving or dressers. All rooms have large windows and French doors that open to a large shared outdoor porch with magnificent views. You may or may not have a roommate, depending on how many people are in residency at the time.
Can I bring my car to Odiyan? Yes. While it is not necessary to bring a car, there is parking available. You must have insurance and enough savings to take care of your vehicle and any related costs.
I don’t have a car. How can I get to Odiyan?
Many volunteers fly to one of our closest airports (Santa Rosa, Oakland or San Francisco). You can take public transportation to our closest bus stop. From there we can pick you up by car. Travel details are arranged upon acceptance to the program.
Can I have an online job or school courses while participating?
No. The Odiyan work-study program is a full time endeavor with a full schedule of work, study, and other community activities. We encourage people who have work or school commitments to keep us in mind for a future time when they can dedicate themselves fully.
What about internet access and cell phones?
WI-FI is available in the residential rooms and most common areas. We also have a desktop stations available for checking email or other online personal tasks. You are welcome to bring your laptop and any other devices. Due to our rural location cell service is spotty in some areas of the property. Verizon works best. There are also several landline phones available for use in common areas and work spaces throughout Odiyan.
