The Edmonton Buddhist Research Institute (EBRI), through its main public body Trúc Lâm Monastery, is the largest congregation of Vietnamese Buddhists in North America. EBRI’s mission is to offer engaged Buddhist study, Buddhist practice, and harmonious living in the 21st century, creating a vibrant community rooted in the Mahayana tradition.

Social Impact

EBRI’s programs and initiatives have made a profound impact on both local and international communities:

• Retreats: EBRI, in collaboration with Westlock Meditation Centre, conducts several retreats throughout the year, including the renowned Short-Term Monastic Retreat. This annual event attracts over 800 lay participants from around the world, offering them a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in monastic life and deepen their practice. Regular retreats also see up to 400 in-practitioners from diverse backgrounds.

• Weekly and Monthly Programs: EBRI hosts Sunday services featuring chanting and Dharma talks, Friday meditation sessions with tea meditation and Dharma sharing, and monthly mindfulness days. These programs provide consistent opportunities for study, practice, and community connection.

• Global Reach: With participants from around the world, EBRI has become a hub for Buddhist practice and cultural exchange, bridging Vietnamese Buddhist traditions with English-speaking sanghas.

BodhiChanda’s Collaboration

BodhiChanda is proud to support EBRI in achieving its mission by providing the following support:

• Cloud Administration Services: We manage EBRI’s cloud infrastructure, ensuring seamless internal communication and data security.

• Software and Licensing: BodhiChanda has secured hundreds of donated software licenses from tech giants like Microsoft, Google, and Adobe, significantly reducing EBRI’s administrative expenses.

• Domain, DNS, and Website Management: We oversee EBRI’s online presence, ensuring its website remains accessible, secure, and user-friendly.

• Online Payment Platform: BodhiChanda assisted setup of online payment system on the truclam.ca website, enabling the monastery to accept donations easily and securely.

Impact of the Partnership

• Streamlined Operations: EBRI’s internal communication and technical infrastructure have been optimized, allowing the organization to focus more on its core mission.

• Cost Efficiency: By leveraging donated software and licenses, EBRI has significantly reduced its computer-related administrative expenses.

• Enhanced Outreach: Our website management and program development efforts have helped EBRI expand its reach and engage more effectively with its global community.

• Deeper Practice: The upcoming international retreat programs aim to provide participants with transformative experiences rooted in the Mahayana tradition, fostering both spiritual growth and cultural understanding.

This partnership reflects BodhiChanda’s commitment to empowering organizations through technical expertise, resourcefulness, and collaborative program development. Together, we’re helping EBRI create a lasting impact in the world of Buddhist practice and scholarship.