Summer Immersion Program

The Compassion In Action Network is a movement and community of young people working to create a happy, just, and flourishing world. Youth have always been at the forefront of social change, and today’s rising generation knows that our challenges are interconnected and that we need both inner change at the personal level as well as outer change in our communities and world. In partnership with young people and older allies across North America, we are growing a network of next-generation leaders who live and act compassionately for the benefit of all.  

In July 2023, we will open our doors for the first time, welcoming students to study and practice at the Namchak Retreat Ranch in beautiful Western Montana.

The Compassion in Action Summer Immersion Program is a four-week retreat-style experience: part study, part meditation retreat, and part environmental stewardship. This program is for young people ages 18-27 to learn meditation practices, build meaningful community, explore social change models, and engage in contemplative practices relating to land stewardship — including permaculture farming.

As an offering by the Namchak Foundation, an education organization sharing Tibetan Buddhist practices in contemporary ways, this four-week immersion program integrates ancient and modern wisdom. As part of the curriculum, the participants will receive instruction in Buddhist principles, in particular those practiced by the Namchak Lineage of Tibetan Buddhism

Inspired by the path of the bodhisattva, students embark upon a journey that includes contemplative practice, community building, shared learning, and hands-on work on the land. 

In This Program, You Will

• Join an inspiring community of like-minded people engaged in inner and outer change, making lifelong friendships

• Become familiar with the state, peace, and presence of this natural way of being

• Learn time-tested and lab-tested Tibetan Buddhist meditation practices that you can use to decrease your stress, increase your focus and improve your overall physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being

• Engage in shared learning and practice and cultivate authentic, satisfying friendships that can last a lifetime

• Develop foundational life and leadership skills for creating personal, interpersonal, and social change

• Receive direct guidance and mentoring from Tibetan and Western experts

• Live, study, and work in a beautiful, awe-inspiring environment

Who Should Apply

People ages 18 – 27 who are interested in learning about Buddhist principles and looking to deepen their meditation practice in a supportive community while living close to and benefiting the earth. 

Additional criteria for joining this cohort include

• You have an interest in group meditation and daily personal practice

• You have an interest in developing personal and group leadership skills and in learning about how to create social change

• You have a commitment to team collaboration

• You have the willingness to learn and grow in new ways

• You are comfortable living in a remote setting

• You can commit to the entire four-week program