Volunteer at KPC Maryland

Cleaning and beautification
sweeping, picking up trash, removing debris from the parking lots, walking paths, lawns, and gardens

Gardening
growing flowers, weeding established beds, and using permaculture and ecologically sound principles to maintain a beautiful, healthy space

Food gardening
working on the vegetable gardens that supply a generous amount of food for those in need, regularly supplying food banks in the area

Maintenance and repairs
painting, cleaning, and repairing stupas, structures, and bridges

Environmental restoration
tackling the tough invasive plants and replacing ecologically beneficial trees, shrubs, and flowers

Caring for the woodland trails
controlling erosion, stabilizing walking trails, and improving the signage

One volunteer “finds comfort in the peaceful space and is inspired to help make it even more beautiful.”

Another states: “I have found such healing in the Peace Park. Thank you for this magnificent offering to the community. I would like to give back to the organization through service.”

Student volunteers have said, “working in the Peace Park for a few hours on the weekend helps them relax during stressful times such as before exams.“

Giving our time and effort to help others can feel wonderful. We get to see the immediate impact of our efforts.

Who can volunteer?

Volunteers must be over the age of 14 and will receive an orientation outlining safety guidelines.   A volunteer coordinator is available to discuss scheduling and to match your skills with needs. Families who wish to volunteer with younger children are also welcome – children must be supervised at all times.

What time commitment is required?

One-time or ongoing tasks are both available. Volunteers often work together in small, safe, socially distant teams, and can choose the schedule that works for them.

Are group welcome?

KPC has welcomed Scout groups, National Honor Societies, families, clubs, and other groups who want to plan a meaningful way to serve the community together. The volunteer coordinator will work to design a project that fits skill levels and timeframes based on current needs.

The following groups have offered consistent, ongoing service and we thank them:

• George Washington University first-year students
• Mid-Atlantic Hiker Campers and more
• MOM’s Organic Market in Gaithersburg, Rockville and Frederick
• Poolesville High School Global Ecology and Humanities students
• Poolesville High School National Honor Society and National Science Honor Society

How do I earn community service or student service learning hours?

As a registered non-profit, KPC can work with you and sign paperwork for volunteers over the age of 14 who make and keep volunteer commitments.

Can KPC work with Scouts on Gold, Silver, Eagle or other service award projects?

Yes, the volunteer coordinator can help Scouts plan and implement projects with appropriate support from Scout-certified adults.

What do I need to bring on a service day? 

Please plan to bring masks, gloves, water bottles and snacks. Dress appropriately for the weather and the project you are undertaking. If you have specialized tools you’d like to bring, please mention those in your planning communications.

Through KPC Buddhist Relief, we are constantly collecting donations of food, and warm clothing to help those who need them. We coordinate with organizations in the county to help distribute these items. We are always in need of shoppers, people to sort donations, drivers, and are grateful for any donations you can offer. Contact volunteer@tara.org if you are interested in helping out.

Indoor volunteers are always needed for caring for the prayer room, maintaining the library, and indoor tasks as needed. If you are interested, please contact volunteer@tara.org, and we will get in touch with you.