Becoming a Member

Stay with them of good heart, for the wisdom of those who stay with them grows. If one stays with Noble Friends, even a fool will become wise.

-- The Dhammapada

Membership Form

Membership is encouraged for those who wish to make a deeper commitment to support the goals and activities of the Florida Community of Mindfulness and to participate more fully in the life of the community. A Buddhist community functions on the basis of dana or generosity.

All participants, from the teacher to the newest student, are involved in sharing their wisdom, time and material resources to support and enrich their Dharma Community. Persons who become members pay discounted fees for retreats and other special events. For those who wish to become members, but may find it difficult to make an annual pledge, semi-annual or quarterly payments, or other arrangements, are possible. Whether you become a member or not, weekly meditation practice and teachings will continue to be available to all.

Your Membership donations help support our sangha community in the following ways:

  • Provides the funds to ensure we have the resources to have an appropriate meeting space for weekly meditations and Dharma talks.
  • Provides the offering of monthly financial support to our teacher, Fred Eppsteiner.
  • Supports our Library Fund to make available video, audio and reading materials to enhance the practice of the individuals in our community.
  • Provides funds to assist with travel expenses to bring guest speakers to our area.
  • Contributes toward our Retreat Scholarship Fund and Charitable Donations for the local communities.
  • Helps to cover advertising and promotional expenses as well as operating costs for equipment, cushions, communications, etc.

We invite you to join in Florida Community of Mindfulness’ efforts to make the Dharma available in Southwest Florida. Florida Community of Mindfulness, Inc. (“FCM”)1 is recognized as a tax-exempt 501(c)(3) organization by the Internal Revenue Service and your contributions are tax deductible. Please see and/or print the Membership Form for memberships categories and mailing instructions.

  1. 1. Formerly Naples Community of Mindfulness, Inc. (“NCM”)