Who we are
Western Dharma Friends is an L.A.-based collective devoted to building conscious community through shared spiritual practice, healing, and connection. We welcome all who feel called to walk the path of presence, compassion, and awakening—whether new to meditation or seasoned in contemplative traditions.
Our Roots in Bön
Our work is deeply inspired by the Bön tradition of Tibet—one of the world’s oldest living spiritual lineages. Rooted in the Dzogchen teachings of Great Perfection, Bön offers a direct path to awakening through stillness, clarity, and compassion. These ancient practices guide our modern community, helping us cultivate inner peace and a deeper connection to all beings.
But our commitment doesn't stop at spiritual practice—we are also dedicated to compassionate action.
Western Dharma Friends donates the majority of our profits to support the Mustang Education and Cultural Center, an extension of Menri Monastery in Nepal. This vital project is run by Geshe Sonam and provides housing, food, clothing, and a traditional Bön education to 70 children and orphans, ranging from infancy to age 19.
It costs just $1,200 per year per child—only $100 per month—to ensure each child receives the essentials of care and learning in a safe, culturally rooted environment.
100% of your donation goes directly to the projects led by Geshe Sonam—including the support of the Children’s Hostel in Mustang, Nepal, and the continued development of Shenten Thagye Ling Monastery, established at the request of H.H. the 33rd Abbot of Menri Monastery.
While we wait on our non-profit status to come through, we are proud to partner with Bön Mustang Foundation Australia, a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving the spiritual and cultural heritage of the Mustang region.
If you feel inspired to give, you can make a tax-deductible donation directly through their site: bonmustang.org.au/donate
Your generosity helps sustain not only the future of these children, but the living flame of a sacred tradition.
FAQs
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Our Commitment to Transparency
Western Dharma Friends is a volunteer-led collective. None of our co-founders receive a salary, and we are committed to ethical, transparent financial practices.
100% of the profits from our Dharma offerings with Geshe Sonam—including retreats, meditations, and teachings—are donated directly to support his humanitarian and monastic projects in Nepal.
Profits from other community offerings may be used in part to reimburse volunteer time and energy, while still contributing meaningfully to Geshe Sonam’s work.
Our mission is rooted in service. Every offering is designed to sustain the teachings, uplift the communities they support, and remain accessible to those who seek them.
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While Bön is a deeply spiritual tradition with its own rich rituals, philosophy, and monastic lineage, Western Dharma Friends is not a religious organization. We are an interfaith, inclusive collective that welcomes people from all backgrounds—religious, spiritual, or secular.
The practices we offer are rooted in ancient Bön wisdom and modern psychotherapy, blending timeless teachings with contemporary insights to support clarity, healing, and transformation. Our meditation techniques are practical, accessible, and designed for anyone seeking greater presence and inner peace—regardless of belief system.
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We believe the Dharma should be available to everyone, not just those with financial means. If you're in a difficult financial space, please don’t hesitate to reach out—we offer scholarships and sliding scale options to help make our retreats accessible.
Our goal is to share these teachings, not break your bank. We also honor the understanding that generosity comes in many forms—not just financial. Whether it’s through presence, participation, or service, there are many ways to give and be part of this community.
If you’d like to request financial assistance, simply contact a member of our team. We’re here to work with you.
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Not at all! Our retreats and offerings are designed to be welcoming and accessible for everyone—whether you're brand new to meditation or have years of practice behind you.
Each session is guided with clarity and care, and we create a supportive environment where you can explore at your own pace. Our focus is on presence, simplicity, and connection—not perfection. Come as you are—curious, open, and ready to discover what these practices can offer you.