Pricing Policy

The Shambhala Center remains open because of the ongoing generosity of our Members and program participants, and one of the cornerstones of our policy is that no one should be prevented from joining or participating in programs of interest because of financial considerations. At the same time, the Center always needs to raise as much revenue as possible so that it can stay open and grow, expanding our offerings to the world at large. When allowing students to offer the amount that is most generous according to their situation, we offset the discrepancy by using our scholarship fund.

Pricing Policy

We have tiered pricing to encourage generosity and help support a variety of financial circumstances. The Patron level supports those who are unable to attend a program at the Supporting Level. The tiers are as follows:

Patron Level—approximately 25% higher than the normal price.
Sustaining Level—the fee required by each participant to sustain the costs of the program.
Supporting Level—approximately 65% of the normal price.

Generosity Policy

We are committed to offering our programs to everyone, regardless of their financial situation. If you are unable to meet any of the following pricing tiers please contact us to discuss your current needs. In order to request using the Generosity Policy you must contact a member of the Shambhala Center Staff prior to the program you wish to attend.

The Columbus Shambhala Center’s Generosity Policy is based upon our sangha’s fundamental commitment to benefiting all sentient beings. This frames the way that we think about all of our sources of revenue. Our perspective when collecting payment for programs as well as dues for membership is based upon a simple formula: “How much are you able to give?” In all program offerings and membership discussions, we offer a few benchmark suggestions, but the central principle remains the same: “How much are you able to give?” In this way, everyone is extended the opportunity to practice generosity over and over again. Sometimes we can be more generous than at other times, and that’s perfectly normal—that’s the way things are. Sometimes we can stretch, and sometimes we cannot.

To be as transparent as possible, the basic parameters of our pricing policy, our membership dues policy, and our scholarship program can be viewed on this page.

Membership Dues

Membership involves joining a community committed to cultivating mindfulness, awareness, and compassion both personally and in society. Providing financial support to the Center is a practice of generosity. Your contribution allows us to plan on a yearly operating budget as well as to offer Shambhala teachings to the world.

The recommended contribution amounts are meant as guidelines for Membership. We ask that you give as generously as you can and appreciate whatever contribution your circumstances permit.

Individual Member
General: $60–$75/month
Low Income/Student: $15–$30/month

Family/Household Members
Recommended Minimum Contribution: $100/month
This designation is for groups of two or more persons related by blood or affection (including dependent children).

Scholarship Fund

Stipends are available for Members attending Shambhala Core Path Programs at other Centers. This part of the scholarship program will be available to Shambhala Center Members only, and it will be funded by cash contributions from two sources: i) donations to the scholarship fund by members as well as by the general public and ii) quarterly donations to the fund from the Columbus Shambhala Center’s gross revenues.