Community Resident
and
Volunteer Programs

Do I have to pay to participate in the Community Resident Program?
The cost of the CRP 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 be a volunteer?
The cost of the Volunteer Program 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 these programs 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 Community Resident and Volunteer Programs?
Kushi Institute Community Residents and 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 Community Resident or Volunteer programs 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 participants in the CRP, benefits also include the week long Way to Health course offered at the Kushi Institute, as well as 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 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?
CRPs live in shared or single dormitory rooms, depending on  availability, and share bathrooms.

When will I know if I have been accepted?
Volunteers and Community Resident participants 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.

APPLICATION:

Volunteer at Kushi Institute

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