The International Bodhisattva Sangha USA (IBS) is an extraordinary organization that reaches out to the inmates and the homeless. IBS is small non-profit organization and was founded in November 2006. The IBS established the Prison Program in 1995 in which one of their main missions is to educate inmates in the state prisons about Buddhism, meditation and the right way of life. Through Dharma education, many inmates found their inner peace and spiritual comfort. Also, through the Prison Program, IBS encourages them to empower themselves by rebuilding both emotionally and physically so that they realize their unique potential as a human when they get back into society.
IBS currently visits 22 state prisons here in California 82 Buddhist libraries have been set up in these prisons in which Dharma classes are being conducted. With the help of passionate supporters, future plans include the setting up libraries in all 36 California state prisons.
Book publishers, IBS members and many other supporters have generously donated books of Buddhism. It is heart-warming to know that the inmates are appreciative of the Dharma teaching and mediation, which have helped them think more positively. IBS has been receiving thank you letters from inmates expressing how truly thankful they are in how IBS has given them the strength and courage on finding their path in becoming a contributor within the community when they are released.
With your generous gift, we will have much more opportunities in reaching out to more inmates through the Prison Program
IBS also continues to offer a homeless program in which they provide street friends with meals and clothing that they may not have. Although they may be small gestures in the grand of scheme of things, it is an act of compassion. The IBS Homeless Program has served some locations such as San Diego, Santa Ana, Los Angeles, and looking to expand in other areas.
Through the support of our volunteers and supporters, the IBS Homeless Program is committed to providing meals to the homeless on a recurring basis. It is their goal to help alleviate the pressure and the pain that these families are going through by providing basic necessities such as clothing and food throughout the year. There is still much more that needs to be done. The more donations that they’re able to obtain, the more individuals they’ll be able to accommodate.
We hope you will take a moment to learn more about IBS projects and support their work. I have personally had the distinct honor and privilege of working directly with IBS and continue to applause not only their level of professionalism but also their programs, which serve such an amazing cause. When volunteering, there’s a HUGE sense gratification in seeing their genuine smiles of appreciation. Please consider becoming involved as your volunteered hours or monetary donations will go a long way in providing those in need the basic necessities year round. The Prison Program and the Homeless Program help to heal the souls of inmates, street brothers, and street sisters. Your contributions speak loudly reminding someone that they haven’t been forgotten and that we do care.
For more details about the organization and on going projects please visit the following sites: www.ibs04.blogspot.com and http://www.facebook.com/ibs.prison
Donations toward one of several causes can be made directly at http://www.ibstemple.ogrg/donate/
We truly appreciate your support!