About Us » Volunteer
Volunteer

Want to make a huge difference in the lives of others while treating yourself to the experience of a lifetime? Want to work side by side with an amazing group of like-minded people from all over the world while learning a philosophy that has transformed the lives of thousands? Wouldn’t it be great to live, work and play in the serenity and beauty of the Berkshires? Join us as a volunteer at The Option Institute!
From landscaping to housekeeping to cooking to marketing, you’ll work on valuable service projects while living an amazing lifestyle that fosters clarity, personal empowerment and happiness. Feel great about your contribution to the lives of others while creating new perspectives, beliefs and approaches to your life.
In addition to the volunteer positions listed above, we have a very special opportunity for motivated and enthusiastic individuals to join our marketing team for two to four month terms throughout the year. Though not an internship, you will gain valuable, professional marketing experience in our dynamic marketing office. Do you have solid computer and communication skills? Looking to spruce up your resume with a little marketing experience? We would love to hear from you!
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While volunteering you’ll receive:
- Training classes on The Option Process® exclusively designed for our volunteers
- Training and practice using The Option Process Dialogue
- Private Option Process Dialogue sessions with certified mentors
- Participation in segments of our dynamic group programs
- Access to a complete library of Option Process books, CDs and videos
- Comfortable accommodations on our 100-acre campus
- Vegetarian and non-vegetarian meals prepared fresh daily
After completion of your volunteer term, you will receive a certificate for a complimentary four-day program or you can use it as a credit towards a weeklong program of your choice.
Upcoming Volunteer Terms
- Term 5 - June 27 - August 28, 2010 (9 weeks)
- Term 6 - Aug 29 - October 30, 2010 (9 weeks)
- Term 7 - October 31 - December 18, 2010 (7 weeks)
- Term 1 - January 2 - February 26, 2011 (8 weeks)
- Term 2 - February 27 - April 30, 2011 (9 weeks)
- Term 3 - May 1 - June 25, 2011 (8 weeks)
- Term 4 - June 26 - August 27, 2011 (9 weeks)
- Term 5 - August 28 - October 29, 2011 (9 weeks)
- Term 6 - October 30 - December 17, 2011 (7 weeks)
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"Bears! What a wonderful class today – a wonderful experience for my last class after my 9 month volunteer stint. I love watching the poetry in motion – of human emotions and self –discovery…… all woven together in a beautiful seamless tapestry. Ah life. Ah – the love. Thank you and all your talented, dedicated “family”/ staff here at Option. My deep, deep love and gratitude to you Bears and everyone! I have grown and witnessed the evolution of others while I have been here. Thank you for the privilege of serving your dedicated efforts in the bigger world of people’s heart."
~ Peggy
What You Give

The Volunteer Program is a 2-month immersion experience designed for individuals wanting to deepen their understanding of The Option Process® through service to others.
Volunteers at The Option Institute are:
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About Volunteering at The Option Institute:

- Schedule: Volunteers work approximately 35 hours a week, including some weekends and evenings. Being flexible is a requirement for volunteering here. Occasionally, to meet unpredictable demands, volunteers may be moved between departments with short notice. Outside of work, volunteers are provided with at least 4 hours of class time in The Option Process® each week as well as training and practice using The Option Process Dialogue.
- Work assignments: Assignments include helping out in one or more of the following essential areas: housekeeping, office work, washing dishes, assisting in cooking, lawn and yard work, snow removal, carpentry, general maintenance, or errands. Most of the work is physical in nature - suitable for people who have energy and stamina.
- Room and Board: Volunteers are provided with room and board, usually twin room occupancy. Bathroom facilities are also shared. Housing is simple with linens and some toiletries provided. Volunteers are responsible for keeping their own room and common spaces clean and have certain other responsibilities, such as clearing snow from pathways, etc.
What You Gain
- Learn a philosophy that has changed the lives of thousands of people around the world.
- Work in a community of people who love what they do.
- Experience the satisfaction of serving others.
- Learn more about The Option Process®, the foundation for our personal growth programs, and The Son-Rise Program®.
- Build meaningful relationships with fellow volunteers, dedicated staff, and inspiring teachers.
- Create new perspectives, beliefs, and approaches to their lives.
- Help make the services of the Institute available to people from around the world.
- Live, work, and play on our beautiful campus in the Southern Berkshire Mountains
Specific Benefits While Volunteering at The Option Institute
- Option Process classes – participate in exciting group workshops where volunteers not only pursue their own personal growth, but experience dynamics from working and learning with a group.
- Option Process Dialogues practice and sessions. Learn a powerful tool to effectively help you uncover beliefs and attitudes that have fueled discomfort, and in this way learn to increase your sense of purpose, happiness, and personal power.
- After completion of your volunteer term, you will receive a certificate to use for a complimentary weekend program or you use it as a credit towards a week long program of your choice.
- Option Indigo lending library – A complete set of Option Process books, cassette tapes, and videos, available for your use.
- Ninety-five acres in the beautiful Berkshires – During your free time, you are welcome to explore the surrounding property (includes paths connected to the Appalachian Trail) and local attractions. New York City and Boston are only 2.5 hours away!
Apply Now
Contact us for more information
Apply Now!

