Volunteer
This April, how will you serve?
We’re all volunteers!
Amma’s programs are entirely volunteer-run. The selfless service that so many people offer suggests that seva (selfless service) grants a special kind of joy. There are numerous opportunities to serve at Amma’s programs.
Before the programs begin…
There are many different areas of the hall that need setting up before the programs begin. For example: setting chairs, decorating the hall, preparing flowers, preparing the first meal.
Signing up in advance is of tremendous help.
During the tour…
There are numerous ways to help during the programs. For example: serving food, preparing vegetables. Signing up in advance is of tremendous help.
After the programs end…
Being of service at the end of the programs is priceless. The local volunteers are always extremely physically tired by the end of the programs. Any help offered to clean up the halls and carry equipment to the trucks and vans is gladly received.
Whatever time you have to give will make a difference.
Do a little. Help a lot.
If you would like to volunteer service you can fill out an online volunteer form for the programs you will be attending:
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Amma?
Sri Mata Amritanandamayi Devi, world renowned spiritual leader, humanitarian and visionary known throughout the world simply as Amma (ammā, “Mother”), has compassionately served the world for decades imparting wisdom, strength and inspiration.
Through her extraordinary acts of Love, Inner Strength and Self-Sacrifice, Amma has endeared herself to millions and inspired thousands to follow in her path of selfless service.
Amma is truly a citizen of the world. She holds free public programs throughout India, Australia, Europe, United States, Japan, Sri Lanka, Singapore, Malaysia, Canada, Africa and South America. In her talks, Amma offers words of wisdom and guidance on both personal fulfillment as well as on the most pressing matters of our time.
From issues such as climate change, cross-cultural tensions, poverty, and women’s rights, Amma’s observations invite each of us to get involved in the process of rebuilding a concerned and caring society.
What is “Darshan”?
To this day, Amma concludes her programs by embracing each person who has attended the event. These personal one-on-one meetings take up the vast majority of Amma’s time. Amma has given this motherly embrace, known as her Darshan, to more than 34 million people throughout the world. Amma has been known to give Darshan for more than 22 hours without interruption.
The most personally accessible, compassionate Spiritual leader alive today, When people pour out their hearts, Amma offers emotional solace, spiritual guidance, and concrete solutions to their problems.
How do I get in line for Amma’s blessing, her darshan?
To meet Amma, you will need a token which are issued on a first-come-first-served basis, 1.5 hours before the start of the program. Tokens are limited, so please arrive early. Learn more ›
Are the public programs similar to the retreats?
No. Amma’s public programs are free of charge and open to the public. Retreats require a fee. Learn more about public programs. Or, learn more about retreats ›
What if I have special needs, or am physically challenged and can’t wait in line?
Please inform the host or hostess who is stationed at the entrance to the hall. They will help provide a comfortable solution and assistance for receiving your embrace. Learn more ›
How is the Devi Bhava program different from the other evening programs?
Devi Bhava begins with an Atma Puja, a ceremony to promote peace and wellbeing for the world. It is a ceremony in honour of the divine self that dwells in all. Learn more ›
Are there any other customs or regulations during the programs?
- Out of respect for the Indian culture, we recommend modest dress. For example: tank tops, shorts, tight leggings and short skirts are not recommended.
- Children must be under the supervision of an adult at all times.
- Sleeping in the hall during program is not permitted. Sleeping anywhere on the program grounds in your car or camper is not permitted.
- No use of alcohol, tobacco or illegal drugs is allowed on the program premises.
- Also, no audio or video recording or photography is permitted.
The Amma Shop
The Amma Shop
An assortment of books and music are available for purchase during the program at the Amma Shop. Selections include collections of talks given by Amma, writings by her senior disciples and music performed by Amma. Other items range from handmade items from Indian villages to essential oils specially blended.
Proceeds support Amma’s international charitable organization Embracing the World.® We also invite you to stop by their information table to learn more about Amma’s humanitarian activities.
Please feel free to ask any questions, all volunteer staff are happy to assist you.
Snacks & Meals
Snacks & Meals
There is a snack shop offering a selection of Western and Indian foods. These shops typically open one hour before each program, close in between programs and at approximately midnight.
A vegetarian lunch and dinner (with vegan and gluten free options) are also available.
Lunch is served from 12:30pm until thirty minutes after the morning program ends.
Dinner is served from 6-7:30pm, then closes for the first part of the evening program. It resumes once Amma begins embracing people and ends around midnight.
Meditation Course
Meditation Course
The IAM – Integrated Amrita Meditation Technique® – or IAM – was born of Amma’s desire for our spiritual advancement. A combination of modalities focusing on movement, breath, sound and light, IAM Technique can be practiced daily by anyone in about 30 minutes.
IAM is taught during Amma’s retreats and is included in the retreat fee. The class takes a total of eight hours to complete, with a two hour session each morning and afternoon of the two retreat days. Sign up for IAM when you register for the retreat, or just come to IAM orientation the first night of the retreat to sign up.
Can you still get darshan with Amma? Yes, absolutely! Tell the token giver you are taking IAM and they will give you a token number that fits your schedule.
In some cities, a shorter IAM class is taught in the afternoon of the free public program day. IAM is also taught free of charge throughout the year in some Australian cities. .
IAM for Youth classes are offered at all of Amma’s retreats. Youths aged 10–18 yrs are welcome to attend. Sign up at the IAM Table.