Be Our Guest.
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Dharma Refuge offers teachings freely because in the Buddhist tradition they're considered ‘priceless’.

​You will be warmly welcomed into our community (sangha) as our guest. Dharma Refuge is open to everyone; commitments or contributions are not required, (Read our Sanctuary Statement.)

How do I know if I am ready to join?

It’s a deeply personal question and it’s best to “hang around” for a bit and see what feels right. Typically, sangha participants begin to consider membership when...
  • They begin to explore the teachings and put them into practice in daily life.
  • They enjoy participating in the activities of the sangha such as our twice-weekly gatherings, social events, retreats, classes and other programs.
  • They feel moved to make a pledge of support. 
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​Does it cost money?

Sustaining Members generally provide financial support; many also assist as volunteers.  While a financial commitment is not required to become a Sustaining Member, contributions ensure our ability to serve all who seek support and encouragement from a community of practitioners. Your financial donation enables us to meet the needs of our sangha, pay our staff, and plan wisely for the future.

Dharma Refuge is sustained entirely through the sangha’s generosity. All donations are tax deductible. Sustaining Members may also donate time as volunteers instead of making financial pledges if their circumstances do not allow a monetary contribution. Read our "Scholarship and Work Study Invitation". If neither financial nor service contributions are possible at this time, we still warmly welcome you to consider Sustaining Membership.

To explore membership, especially if you are concerned about your capacity to provide financial or volunteer support, email Jane Ellen Bleeg, our Membership Chair.
 


Sustaining Membership, a Matter of the Heart...

Joining our community reflects a desire to pursue the path of love and wisdom based on the teachings of the Buddha. It does not mean you must identify as Buddhist. Becoming a sangha member can be compatible with and supportive of being a member of another spiritual (or religious) community. Membership in Dharma Refuge is a way to strengthen your commitment to your own awakening and the awakening of all beings. For many, it is a recognition that having friendship and support along the path is a source of courage, inspiration and transformation.​​

How Much Should I Give?

Nationally the average contribution by household to a spiritual/religious organization is estimated at roughly 2% of annual income.  We encourage you to use 2% as a guideline for your giving.  Your circumstances may not allow giving at this level.  We are delighted to include you as a Sustaining Member at a level of giving compatible with your current circumstances.  (If you can give at a level higher than 2% we hope you will consider that; it helps balance out those whose capacity is more limited.)

If You Have Questions: Email Jane Ellen Bleeg, our Membership Chair.


​To activate your Sustaining Membership
  • Complete and submit the Sustaining Member Form (below) on  this page.
  • Once your membership has been entered into our database, you will be sent an email inviting you to create your Dharma Refuge login and password. To access Member Pages, you will need to create your login.
  • Payment Methods
    • If you would like the ease of using your credit card or ACH (an automatic bank draft), click on the "Sustaining Member Automatic Payment Form" below the Sustaining Member Pledge Form:
    • If you are paying by cash or check, be sure to select this option on the Sustaining Member Form. You will be contacted to make arrangements.
  • If you have indicated on the Sustaining Member Form that you would like to become a member and volunteer, or have requested a Membership Scholarship, we will contact you.