Core Programs and Activities

1. Buddhist Education

• Dharma Classes: Youth learn fundamental Buddhist principles, such as the Four Noble Truths, the Noble Eightfold Path, and the practice of mindfulness. Lessons are tailored to different age groups to ensure they are relatable and engaging.
• Meditation Practice: Guided sessions to help youth develop inner peace, focus, and self-awareness through meditation techniques rooted in Zen Buddhism.
• Chanting and Sutra Recitation: Training in traditional Buddhist chanting to deepen spiritual connection and understanding of sutras.

2. Cultural Preservation and Enrichment

• Traditional Vietnamese Practices: Programs that teach youth about Vietnamese festivals, customs, and rituals, such as Tết (Lunar New Year) and Tết Trung Thu (Mid-Autumn Festival).
• Folk Songs and Dances: Opportunities to learn and perform traditional Vietnamese music and dances at temple events and community gatherings.
• Vietnamese Language Support: Supplemental language lessons to strengthen youths’ ability to communicate in Vietnamese and connect with their cultural roots.

3. Leadership and Life Skills Development

• Leadership Training: Workshops and mentorship programs designed to help youth develop leadership qualities, teamwork, and decision-making skills.
• Public Speaking and Presentation Skills: Training to help youth confidently share Buddhist teachings or lead group activities.
• Event Planning: Hands-on experience organizing temple events, from cultural celebrations to charity fundraisers, helping youth learn project management and teamwork.

4. Outdoor Activities and Camps

• Annual Buddhist Youth Camps: Multi-day camps where members engage in Dharma lessons, team-building exercises, and outdoor adventures in nature. Activities include hiking, camping, and evening bonfires with Dharma sharing.
• Environmental Stewardship: Programs that teach youth the importance of caring for the environment, including temple clean-up days, tree planting, and recycling initiatives.
• Sports and Team Games: Fun physical activities to promote health, collaboration, and community spirit.

5. Community Service and Outreach

• Charity Projects: Participation in initiatives such as food drives, disaster relief efforts, and visits to nursing homes or orphanages.
• Temple Volunteering: Opportunities for youth to give back by assisting with temple maintenance, ceremonies, and kitchen duties during events.
• Support for New Immigrants: Helping Vietnamese immigrant families adjust to life in the U.S. by providing translation services, guidance, and support.

6. Ceremonial Participation

• Youth-Led Ceremonies: GĐPTVN members take active roles in temple ceremonies, such as leading chants, presenting offerings, and organizing events.
• Buddhist Holidays: Youth participate in and help organize celebrations for Buddha’s Birthday (Vesak), Ullambana (Vu Lan), and other key events on the Buddhist calendar.

Age Groups and Levels

The GĐPTVN is divided into structured groups to ensure age-appropriate learning and activities:

• Oanh Vũ (Young Lotus Shoots): Ages 6-12
  Introduction to Buddhist teachings, cultural activities, and basic mindfulness practices.
• Thanh (Teens): Ages 13-16
  Focus on deepening Dharma knowledge, leadership training, and active community involvement.
• Huynh Trưởng (Youth Leaders): Ages 17+
  Advanced training in teaching Buddhist values and mentoring younger members.

Benefits of Joining GĐPTVN

• Spiritual Growth: Develop a deeper connection to Buddhist teachings and practices.
• Cultural Awareness: Strengthen ties to Vietnamese traditions and heritage.
• Leadership Skills: Build confidence, teamwork, and organizational skills.
• Community Belonging: Form lasting friendships and bonds with like-minded peers.
• Service Opportunities: Make a meaningful impact through charitable projects and temple service.

Upcoming Events and Activities

1. Monthly GĐPTVN Meetings: Interactive Dharma discussions, group games, and cultural lessons.
2. Annual Tết Celebration: Youth members lead performances, prepare traditional foods, and organize festival activities.
3. Summer Leadership Retreat: A weekend retreat focusing on mindfulness, team-building, and leadership development.
4. Community Service Day: A full-day event where members give back to the local community through volunteer work.

How to Join

Joining GĐPTVN is a simple and rewarding process.

Eligibility:

• Ages 6 and up (age-specific programs are available).
• An interest in learning about Buddhism, Vietnamese culture, and community service.

Enrollment Process:

1. Complete the registration form online or in-person at Trúc Lâm Bảo Chí Zen Buddhist Temple.
2. Attend an introductory meeting to learn more about GĐPTVN and upcoming activities.
3. Begin participating in programs immediately and receive your membership materials.