The purpose of the program is two-fold:

1. To help newer meditators establish, sustain, and deepen their practices
2. To expand the mentors practices through participation as guides

The program provides an opportunity for newer meditators and IMCW meditation mentors to come together to enrich their practice and share in the spirit of sangha. 

The prerequisites for being assigned an IMCW mentor:

1. Residence in the greater Washington, D.C., area
2. Completion of an in-person or audio tape Introduction to Meditation course by any recognized Vipassana teacher; or a Vipassana retreat of five days or longer

Guidelines for mentoring relationship (may be adjusted for special situations):

1. An initial in person interview
2. Approximately twice monthly meetings (preferably at least o­nce in person)
3. Mentee commits to a regular sitting practice
4. An annual plan for class attendance, retreats, etc. is mapped out by mentor and mentee together
5. Primary responsibility for staying in touch is with the mentee

To learn more about the Mentoring Program, please contact Trudy mitchell-gilkey at Tamgilkey@aol.com  and please put "Mentoring" in the subject line.