Volunteer
The residents of Pārāyana Vihāra rely on a rich network of support, including the time and skills of many people. There are many ways to get involved, including some that can be done remotely if you don’t live near Port Townsend.
Board Member positions: The Vihara is seeking to expand our Board of Directors and welcome those who are interested in helping manifest the spiritual vision and activities of the Vihara. The ideal board member will possess some degree of strategic planning, financial literacy, legal knowledge, or marketing/communications skills. A commitment to collaboration, adaptability, and a willingness to learn about and support the lives of the monastic sangha is essential. Please email info@parayanavihara.org with “Board position” as the subject if you or someone you know may be interested.
Steward role: In October 2026, we expect a lay steward position to become available at the Vihara. Common to many monasteries, the steward role allows a lay person to live alongside and serve the sangha. Five days a week, the steward will be available to tend to monastery duties from 6:30am to 1:30 pm. These mainly include cooking simple vegetarian meals for 4-5 people, weekly grocery shopping and errands, and participating in monastery chores.
Stewards will be expected to keep the five lay precepts, have cooking and basic computer skills, and possess a valid driver’s license. The Vihara will provide free accommodation, two meals per day, and Dhamma practice support, including the option to join morning and evening chanting and meditation. A commitment of 6-12 months is ideal, though shorter terms are possible. To inquire further, please email info@parayanavihara.org with “Steward position” as the subject line.
Additional support needs include:
- Monthly recycling run to King County
- Accommodation near the Vihara for guests: If you would be willing to house occasional visiting monastic or friends of the Vihara from out of town, please let us know.