Each one of us is unique and has a gift to share. We invite you to discover yours.

Who We Are

We are a cooperative community comprised of  people with different backgrounds and interests. While we all share some core values, our ways of expressing them vary. For example, recognition of the spiritual aspect of humanity is respected in whatever form it takes, including not  identifying with any religion.  We honor individual choices as part of the richness that diversity offers. Most of us love to be in nature, to work with the Earth and to be stewards for future generations. Many value meditation as a tool for quieting the mind and deepening wisdom. Some of us are musicians who gather to celebrate our love of life and spirit. Others are interested in exchanging ideas to expand our perspectives on significant issues. Whether it is through silence or speech, movement or stillness, inquiry or service, our aim is to recognize the beauty and contribution  of each unique expression within the web of life.


    "There's a million ways to kneel and kiss the ground."  
​                                                     -Rumi


Leadership

There is no one central teacher who is the head of our organization. Instead, we welcome involvement from several local teachers and others who come as visitors from time to time.  Sister Khemanandi is currently our resident monastic, teaching, facilitating programs, and overseeing Deer Park garden and care.  Aruna Dhammadhira, former resident, is serving in a lead role by teaching and facilitating programs. However, they welcome collaboration with those who share similar aims and values.  As a cooperative organization, we may invite someone to offer teachings,  lead a workshop or conduct a retreat as we sense that their offering will deepen understanding of our shared experience. Through a variety of programs, we aim to provide opportunities for many people to discover connections that will bring joy and purpose to their lives. We value what each member brings to the community.  Our intention is to learn from each other as we collectively support the unfolding of wholeness in our lives.
Vision

We envision a place where all would be welcome to participate in classes, workshops, and retreats centered on themes of whole-hearted living. Our goal is to develop our center on a piece of property that would also be a demonstration of permaculture principles and cooperative living. Your contribution will help us to realize our goal.