Frequently Asked Questions

 

What qualifications do I need?

Insight on the Inside volunteers are people with dedicated meditation and retreat practices who feel inspired to practice dana through volunteer services. 


The most fundamental “skills” are kindness, compassion, and willingness to show up and be present. It may be helpful if you have experience teaching, facilitating groups, or public speaking.
It is important to clarify your intention. What draws you to this work? This intention will grow and develop in time. Each of us need only to be alert to it, watching for those very human desires to be liked and to show what we know, as well as noticing more selfless desires.

How much of a commitment is involved?

The IOI sangha meets  from 10:00-11:30 a.m. on the 3rd Saturday of the month at the Center for Mindful Living 4708 Wisconsin Ave Washington DC (Tenleytown Metro). Participation in the Insight on the Inside is dependent on attendance at these meetings. Other requirements are:

  • Attend a minimum of nine meetings per year the first year, six per year after that.

  • Orientation and clearance at the facilities where we teach- which varies from a few hours to one full day (as well as other paperwork and requirements depending on the institution).

  • Availability to teach a minimum of two classes a month in addition to the meeting attendance time commitment.

  •  Willing to stay in good communication with the Program Director (Carolyn Stachowski)  via email or phone.

  • Willingness and ability to incur some expenses such as parking, the cost of the TB test.

In addition, we ask that you:

  • Have a daily sitting meditation practice 

  • Participate in a regular mindfulness class, or sangha  

  • Have a regular retreat practice

  • Drawing on their personal practice, volunteers are expected to develop an understanding and acceptance of mindfulness as taught by IOI. New volunteers typically learn about what IOI teaches by attending the monthly meetings noted above and reading the Volunteer Handbook and other material.

Are there rules I need to follow?

Volunteers are expected to respect the rules and procedures of our host facilities. For example, it is important to remember that correctional facilities are unique, often militaristic environments. We are there because of the good will of the correctional employees. We do not know all the challenges they face. We take a deferential attitude and practice understanding and patience in all interactions with the staff. Check with the point person about what you are allowed to bring into a facility; most do not allow any personal items like cell phones or wallets. The dress code varies – we have been turned away for wearing sweatpants, sleeveless blouses, leggings and open-toed shoes. When in doubt, wear clothes that can be ironed and that cover you up. Please respect the privacy of your students by keeping personal information shared in class discussions confidential.

All volunteers sign an agreement to ensure a rewarding experience for them and their students