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The First of the Four Great Vows calls on Buddhists to save all sentient beings. But those who take up this vow quickly discover that the sentient beings we seek to help are really saving us!

, as they share stories and lessons learned from volunteering with Afghan refugee families in Tallahassee. These families have fled unimaginable hardship to rebuild their lives, and through their experiences, our volunteers have helped support them and in turn had the opportunity to practice the first four of the pāramitās: generosity, morality, patience and diligence.

 began her Dharma journey in 2018 at the Tallahassee Chan Center, joining a beginner meditation workshop after retiring from a fulfilling 30-year career in city planning. Inspired by her practice, she took on the role of the Center's refugee coordinator in 2022. Wendy and her husband, Keith, have called Tallahassee home since 1980, where they’ve built lasting friendships and fostered a deep connection to the community.

, who took refuge in 2014 with Ven. Guo Dong and Guo Gu, was raised in Tallahassee and has worked extensively in nonprofit organizations, state government, and the private sector. Since 2022, Vie has been actively volunteering as part of the Tallahassee Chan Center’s refugee support efforts, which include providing supplies, English tutoring, child care, and much more!

As part of our ongoing refugee support, one of the families we assist, a household of seven, as received an unexpected opportunity to attend their green card interview in a few weeks. To prepare, they must undergo costly medical exams required by USCIS, which are not covered by Medicaid.

Every contribution, large or small, helps these families take meaningful steps toward stability and safety.

How the Tallahassee Chan Center Supports Refugee Families