Sakya Tsechen Association

"Buddhist's Teachings & Prayers Services" Members of this Association are first generation Tibetan immigrants and are Buddhists traditionally. Teachings and seminars are organized throughout the year to provide them the opportunity of continuous learning. The teachings are given by monks of the Sakya Order, which is one of the four major Tibetan Buddhist Traditions that dated back in 1073AD, and are supervised by Sakya Trizin the present head of the Sakya Order. The Association also provide various religious services on request. These religious ceremonies are deeply ingrained in the Tibetan tradition. The observances are conducted by, and in conjunction with, Tsechen Kunchab Ling, our affiliate main monastery in Walden, NY, Palden Sakya Center and Vikramasila Foundation in New York City. These seminars and religious ceremonies were attended by about 6500 people during the year and open free to the public. There were about 454 volunteers who helps for these events.

"Outreach Services" Since 2013 the Association was approached by members seeking help for adjusting to live in this country. Services like medical visit translation and funeral arrangement are particularly needed. These matters pose enormous difficulties for new immigrants because as a minority group, translators access are difficult even in the metropolitan area. The demands for such help increase steadily and in 2017 the board decided to recruit volunteers to serve these demands. With the coordinated help from the Buddhist Council of New York City the Association can further provide advise on housing arrangement, job seeking, and schooling information. Expenses for these programs presently are limited to reimbursement of transportation and supplies. Such reimbursements are rare because volunteers seldom made such requests. Served individuals:269 Volunteers:78.

"Language and Cultural Program" The need to preserve the Tibetan language and culture is of imminent importance for first generation immigrants. Hence these classes are offered for the purpose of preserving the culture and languages. These classes are provided online on a daily basis with about 359 students. Classes are conducted by 8 teachers and assisted by 14 volunteers. There are also monthly classes for traditional Tibetan songs and dances. Special classes are also held to coordinate with various religious ceremonies and festivals throughout the year. These song and dance programs help to preserve Tibetan history and culture. These classes have about 150 participants and are conducted by 13 volunteers. coordination to commemorate major religious events and festivals. Served:44 individuals Teaching Volunteers:8