Volunteer
Programs FREQUENTLY
ASKED QUESTIONS Do
I have to pay to participate as a Community Resident Volunteer? The
cost for a CRV is $850. This requires an uninterrupted 17-week commitment and
is payable one month in advance. Participants may wish to extend their stay at
the Kushi Institute based on job performance and space available. Do
I have to pay to participate as a Standard Volunteer? The
cost for a Standard Volunteer is $50 per week, payable one month in advance of
arrival, for the number of weeks the individual is committed to the program (from
1 month up to 16 weeks.) What
is expected of me? We
are looking for dynamic, positive individuals who want to make a difference by
contributing their time and energy toward the smooth and effective operation of
our center. Those who are accepted into the Volunteer program must be willing
to assist us by volunteering full time (40 hours per week) in areas such as kitchen,
office, housekeeping and grounds/ maintenance. Work assignments will be determined
by the management according to the needs of the Institute and the abilities of
the participant. As we are open seven days per week, work duties include shifts
on weekdays and weekends. What
are the benefits of participating in the Volunteer Program? Kushi
Institute Volunteers have the satisfaction of knowing they are helping our nonprofit
educational center spread macrobiotic teachings to people who attend our programs
from all over the world. Qualified individuals who are accepted into the Kushi
Institute Volunteer program have the opportunity to experience the macrobiotic
way of life and to learn and grow as members of our support staff. In return for
their efforts and dedication, participants receive housing, meals, and the ability
to audit classes when not working. Participants also have access to macrobiotic
books, audio and video tapes in our library. For Community Resident Volunteers,
benefits include one month-long Level of Macrobiotic Leadership education for
each 17 weeks of completed commitment at no charge. You will still be responsible
for housing costs during the Macrobiotic Leadership Program. What
activities are available in the Becket area? The
Kushi Institute is located in western Massachusetts, in the heart of the Berkshire
mountains. Becket is a small town with a general store, post office, library,
and arts center. Participants enjoy walking on the roads or hiking on trails.
State forests are located within a 20 minute drive. A mall, movie theater, museums
and shopping areas are within a 30-45 minute drive. What
if I do not have a car? There
is no public transportation to nearby towns. Those participants that do not bring
cars can arrange carpooling with other participants for shopping or entertainment. What
is the weather like? Winters
can be very cold and snowy (in the teens and colder), and participants should
be prepared with appropriate clothing. Multiple layers are a good idea for wintertime.
Summers are warm during the day and cooler in the evening. Will
I have any expenses during my stay? Participants
need to have adequate funds to cover basic expenses while they are here such as
coin-operated laundry, personal items, entertainment, and phone calls. Where
will I live? Volunteers
live in shared or single dormitory rooms, depending on availability, and share
bathrooms. When
will I know if I have been accepted? Volunteers
are accepted for time frames in which there is space available, giving consideration
to start and end dates stated on the application. We will call within two weeks
of receiving the completed forms to speak with you about your interests at Kushi
Institute. Contact
our Office:
(413)623-5741 ext.141
or email us at:
volunteerprogram@kushiinstitute.org | 
