Program Components 1. The heart of BASE is engaging suffering directly. Participants work or volunteer in social service or social justice organizations including hospices, prisons, soup kitchens and environmental groups. The cornerstone of BASE is our commitment to deepening our Buddhist practice as we participate in work in the world. BASE participants meditate together in meetings and longer retreat periods and examine how to bring dharma teachings and practice into daily life.
Many BASE groups continue to meet after the initial six months.
Each participant makes BASE a primary commitment for the allotted period of time, much as one commits to a spiritual practice. The Bay Area offers BASE groups for those who are employed in social service or social change jobs or for those doing from 5 to 30 hours of volunteer work. Participants who volunteer 30 hours a week in volunteer placements are eligible to receive financial support and assistance with housing. Those who are working are asked to pay for the training on a sliding scale fee. All are encouraged to apply regardless of financial situation.