Skip to content Tzu Chi was established on 14th May 1966, in Hualien, Taiwan, by Dharma Master Cheng Yen. The Foundation’s “Four Missions” are Charity, Medicine, Education, and Humanistic Culture, which, over the years, have unfolded to include International Disaster Relief, Bone Marrow Registry, Environmental Protection, and Community Volunteerism. These eight concurrent campaigns are collectively known as “Eight Dharma Footprints.” There are currently over 600 Tzu Chi offices in 68 countries and regions, with a total of more than ten million donating members and close to two million volunteers worldwide. As of May 2024, Tzu Chi has provided aid to 136 countries and regions, working directly with people in need, regardless of race, nationality, or religion, to alleviate their suffering.
Dharma Master Cheng Yen, Tzu Chi’s founder, believes that all wholesome religions help individuals understand life’s purpose and principles, guiding them to lead moral and meaningful lives. Despite their differences, all religions promote human development and a life of service. United by the spirit of Great Love, Tzu Chi volunteers do not differentiate based on race or religion, and neither volunteers nor beneficiaries are required to change their faith.
Tzu Chi aims to practice the Buddhist values of loving-kindness, compassion, joy, and equanimity while alleviating human suffering. Through their involvement in Tzu Chi activities, volunteers deepen their understanding of the Dharma, purifying their hearts and minds. They integrate the Buddha’s teachings into their daily lives, enhancing their thoughts, speech, and actions for the benefit of themselves and others.
Absolutely not. You do not need to be a Buddhist to volunteer with Tzu Chi. While Tzu Chi is rooted in Buddhism, it embodies the spirit of Great Love and operates beyond racial and religious boundaries. Our focus is not on chanting sutras or conducting Dharma services; we warmly welcome volunteers of all faiths to join us in spreading love and blessings. Many members of the Tzu Chi International Medical Association (TIMA) come from Christian, Muslim, or Hindu backgrounds. If you’re interested in learning about Buddhism, we would be happy to share our traditions with you.
Absolutely Not. You do not need to become a Buddhist or donate to Tzu Chi to volunteer with us. Tzu Chi welcomes everyone to help those in need and does not require you to change your beliefs. We simply ask for an open and generous heart.
Absolutely Not. Tzu Chi promotes a vegetarian diet for health and environmental benefits, but it is not mandatory for volunteers. However, all Tzu Chi events will serve only vegetarian food.
Absolutely Not. Volunteers are not required to purchase a Tzu Chi uniform, but they must wear a volunteer vest for identification while representing Tzu Chi.
Volunteers at Tzu Chi can undergo a three-stage training program for personal growth and increased responsibility, each stage with a distinct uniform. Certified volunteers wear specific uniforms: a navy-blue polo shirt with white pants, a navy-blue dress, or a qipao for women; the same polo shirt and pants or a suit for men. These uniforms are designated for specific services and occasions and do not indicate “class differences.”
As a globally recognised NGO as well as an organisation for spiritual cultivation, Tzu Chi’s uniforms, consisting of a grey or blue shirt paired with white pants, symbolize the organization and distinguish our regular volunteers. By wearing the same uniform, it also demonstrates the beauty of harmony within a team and reflects the willingness of individuals to minimise their ego, without seeking to stand out from others. Volunteers in uniform are reminded to humble themselves and to correct their negative habits and traits, as they expand their minds and serve with joy.
Yes, absolutely. Many Tzu Chi volunteers have full-time jobs but still dedicate time to serve others. The greatest fulfillment in life comes from helping those in need, and a loving heart leads to true happiness in life.
Yes, absolutely. Speaking Mandarin is not a requirement for applying to be a volunteer. A fluent English-speaking volunteer will be assigned to assist you when needed.
Absolutely No. There are no significant cultural concerns. Tzu Chi volunteers are friendly and come from diverse backgrounds. If they don’t initiate conversation, it may be due to unfamiliarity or language barriers, not a lack of friendliness. You’ll likely encounter multiple languages, including Mandarin, Cantonese, Taiwanese, and English, among volunteers. Even if it’s not obvious, everyone is striving to connect despite language differences. Trust that all share a genuine desire to be helpful and welcoming.
Yes. Like other organizations, Tzu Chi requires you to complete an application and sign a confidentiality agreement, committing to the Tzu Chi Code of Conduct. A criminal record check is necessary if you will be working with minors or seniors.
We sincerely hope you choose to join us on one of our many projects.
