The Garrison Institute is a non-sectarian, 501(c)(3) not-for-profit educational institute. Our work is made possible by people like you. Charitable donations fund scholarships that support the accessibility of our retreats and programs for those who have the will but who may not have the way. Supporting scholarships is one piece of how we can continue to build a more inclusive community and move the needle on contemplative-based social change. To learn how to apply for a scholarship, click here.
Retreat Scholarships – General Fund
Since our founding in 2003, the Garrison Institute has welcomed over 75,000 participants to hundreds of diverse retreats and professional development programs. The remarkable ability of contemplative practices and insights to create positive changes in states of mind and behavior is revealed by traditional wisdom and cutting edge science alike. The Institute is committed to making its retreat programs available to anyone who could benefit. Contributions provide support for underserved populations and those with financial need to participate in over 120 spiritual and professional training retreat programs annually. To contribute to the Garrison Institute General Scholarship fund, click here.
Many Voices Fund
The Many Voices Fund will provide scholarships for our in-person and virtual retreats to individuals from underserved communities, with the majority of available funds designated for Black, Indigenous, and people of color. One of the most powerful truths about contemplation is that you can practice anywhere: at home or on the subway, by yourself or in community. And yet, there is something undeniably special about going on retreat. We have heard over and over from our retreatants that participating in a retreat at the Garrison Institute is a unique and transformative experience. Research shows that contemplative practices promote well-being and support positive social transformation for both individuals and communities. We want to make sure that this experience is accessible for all, regardless of financial need. We are also committed to supporting the next generation of contemplative practitioners and leaders, and we recognize that for many emerging voices, retreats are cost-prohibitive. To contribute to the Many Voices Scholarship fund, click here.
Contemplative-Based Resilience Training
Vicarious trauma is a real risk for service providers, often compounded by long hours and heavy caseloads. In the United States, the CBR Project offers trainings for society’s “unsung heroes” – staff providing invaluable care to vulnerable and marginalized members of our society. These evidence-based trainings give social workers, humanitarian aid workers, journalists, lawyers, social activists, and senior managers in these fields the chance to decompress while learning practical skills to improve their ability to manage chronic stress and avoid burnout. To contribute to this scholarship fund, click here.
Himalayan Heritage Scholarships
The Garrison Institute is privileged to be a cultural center for teachers from the Tibetan and Himalayan Buddhist tradition. The Himalayan Heritage Scholarship program was launched in 2012 to provide Himalayan people in North America, who would not otherwise be able to attend these retreats, the opportunity to reconnect with their own rich heritage, the cultural and spiritual traditions of Tibetan Buddhism. To contribute to this scholarship fund, click here.