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By the grace of the Lord and the blessings of the Guru Paramapara, Chinmaya Yuva Kendra West was officially formed in 2005. This youth

wing of Chinmaya Mission in North America, for ages 17-28 years, functions under the guidance of Pujya Guruji Swami Tejomayananda-ji

and the administrative umbrella of Chinmaya Mission West.

This CHYK West Manual is a key resource for the formation and functioning of CHYK groups throughout North America.

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OUR GURU PARAMPARA

Param Pujya Swami Tapovan Maharaj was born in 1889 in Kerala, India, Chippu Kutty, and exhibited a marked partiality for spiritual life. Home-schooled until the age of 17, he proved himself to be a devout Vedantin, and a linguistic genius and litterateur par excellence, mastering both Malayalam and Sanskrit. Both his parents passed away before he turned 21, and by then, he was already renowned and revered for his original poetic compositions. He adopted the sannyasi’s religious and serene lifestyle long before his initiation into the ochre robe of sannyasa. An introvert to the core, he loved spending his time immersed in spiritual reflection and was averse to all worldly pleasures. As a jivanmukta, or Self-realized master, Swami Tapovan was a lover of Nature and saw the supreme Lord in all expressions, within and without. In his inspiring, poetic works of Himagiri Viharam (Wanderings in the Himalayas) and Kailasa Yatra (Pilgrimage to Mount Kailasa) are seen the full flow of his blissful and soulful renderings of Nature, and the profundity of his subtle observations and reflections. However, it is his mystical autobiography, Ishvara Darshan (Vision of the Lord), that sages and seekers the world over have stamped as his masterpiece.

His Holiness Swami Chinmayananda, founder of Chinmaya Mission, taught spirituality as the art of living. Through jnana yoga (the Vedantic path of spiritual knowledge), he emphasized the balance of head and heart, pointing out selfless work, study, and meditation as the cornerstones of spiritual practice. Not satisfied by worldly aspirations or his degrees in literature and law, Balakrishna Menon pursued spiritual studies for nine years in the Himalayas, under the guidance of Swami Sivananda (Divine Life Society) and the tutelage of Swami Tapovan Maharaj. He eventually came to share this Vedantic knowledge with the masses, in the form of the dynamic teacher known as Swami Chinmayananda. Swamiji is renowned worldwide as a spiritual master and one of the foremost teachers of Shrimad Bhagavad Gita. He is credited with the renaissance of spirituality and cultural values in India, and with the spreading of the ageless wisdom of Advaita Vedanta, as expounded by Adi Shankaracharya, throughout the world. Swami Chinmayananda attained mahasamadhi in August 1993. His legacy remains in the form of written, audio, and video publications; social service projects; Vedanta teachers whom he taught and inspired; and Chinmaya Mission centers worldwide, serving the spiritual and cultural needs of local communities.

His Holiness Swami Tejomayananda, the present spiritual head of Chinmaya Mission worldwide, is fulfilling the vision that Swami Chinmayananda charted. As he puts it, “I am not in Swamiji’s shoes; I am at his feet.” Swami Tejomayananda has served as acharya (dean) of the Sandeepany institutes of Vedanta (gurukulas of Chinmaya Mission) in India, and as acharya in Mission centers in India and the US. He has written commentaries on scriptural texts, translated Swami Chinmayananda’s commentaries into Hindi, and authored a number of books. A key contribution is Hindu Culture: An Introduction, which has been acclaimed for its clear description of the basics of Hinduism and adopted as a reference text in some American high schools. Pujya Guruji excels in expounding upon a wide spectrum of Hindu scriptures, from Ramayana, to Shrimad Bhagavad Gita, to the Upanishads. His easy manner, combined with his in-depth analyses and devotional renderings of Vedantic texts, have drawn many newcomers into the spiritual fold.

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Chinmaya Mission West Board of Directors

January 2013 Chairman: Pujya Guruji Swami Tejomayananda (Head of Chinmaya Mission Worldwide)

Acting President: Swami Shantananda (CM Princeton)

Treasurer: Pranjiwan Lodhia (CM San Jose)

Secretary: Brahmacharini Aparna Chaitanya (CM Miami)

Gulu Advani (CM San Jose)

Acharya Vilasini Balakrishnan (CM Washington DC)

Ashok Dandekar (CM Dallas)

Gopal Dwarakanath (CM Boston)

Acharya Sharada Kumar (CM Ann Arbor)

Acharya Shailaja Nadkarni (CM Orlando)

Acharya Gaurang Nanavaty (CM Houston)

D. V. Pillai (CM Los Angeles)

Acharya Shanker Pillai (CM Chicago)

http://www.chinmayamission.org

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MESSAGE FROM HIS HOLINESS SWAMI TEJOMAYANANDA, HEAD OF CHINMAYA MISSION WORLDWIDE

Dear CHYKs, Hari Om! My hearty congratulations to the CHYK West Steering Committee for bringing out this informative and inspiring CHYK Manual! As CHYK West chapters sprout across North America, this manual will provide the needed guidance and resources to initiate and sustain the growth of CHYK West. The motto of CHYK is, “Harnessing youth potential through dynamic spirituality.” Dynamic spirituality is spirituality in action that is free from materialistic pursuits. Spiritual vision is where knowledge (jnana) gives rise to feeling (bhakti), which motivates action (karma). This type of action blesses the doer and the receiver. The most important aspect of CHYK is Vedantic study. Pujya Gurudev conducted jnana yajnas until his last breath, though there were hundreds of other activities and projects that he initiated. Vedantic study should be the priority for all CHYKs, regardless of any other activity they undertake. CHYKs can initiate simple service projects and offer meaningful help at their respective local Mission centers, forming local committees and working together in harmony, without ego. Pursuing any project involves four important aspects: Planning, execution, mobilization of resources, and hard work. All of these should be undertaken and considered properly. In pursuing projects, Pujya Gurudev should be our role model; his leadership qualities are many, including efficiency and punctuality. With deep devotion, clear vision, and right thinking and attitude, not only does the spiritual seeker transform, but also the community he or she serves. By the Lord’s grace and Pujya Gurudev’s blessings, may CHYK West successfully fulfill its vision of dynamic spiritual growth and dedicated social service. With Prem and Om,

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MESSAGE FROM SWAMI SARVESHANANDA NATIONAL DIRECTOR, CHYK WEST

In 2005, the first CHYK West National Camp was held in Dallas, Texas, and that led to more national retreats organized exclusively for CHYKs. By the end of 2010, there were more than 15 CHYK groups around the US, leading to the push for a more consolidated effort for activities at the national level that promote communication and learning among CHYK groups. With Pujya Guruji Swami Tejomayananda-ji’s blessings, the formation of the CHYK West Steering Committee (SC) in 2011 not only precipitated a new vision and direction for CHYK West, but also provided a vehicle for significant development at the national level. Under Pujya Guruji’s directive, the SC began working with the CMW Board to create and provide opportunities for projects on a larger scale, and to coordinate youth activities across North America. The SC provides ideas, coordination, and resources for CHYK groups across North America, which includes the US, Canada, and Trinidad & Tobago. The SC serves primarily by: 1. Advising on priorities and suggesting ideas 2. Building accountability among CHYK groups 3. Being an informational and resource portal for new CHYK groups 4. Planning ways to integrate graduating Bala Vihar students into the CHYK fold 5. Uniting CHYK groups through collaboration on projects and activities 6. Supporting CHYK groups so each group is equipped with resources to conduct local classes and projects The CHYK West Manual is a maiden effort by the SC to help achieve these objectives. This project was initially commissioned by Acharya Vivek Gupta, Deputy Director of CHYK West, who was inspired by Pujya Gurudev’s guidelines for CHYK groups in India. The project was taken up by CHYK West Chicago in 2010, when they put together the initial draft of best practices. Since then, the Manual has been through an extensive editing process by a team of talented individuals, in particular, Acharya Vilasini Balakrishnan, whose editing skills and experience have added great value and depth to the Manual. I am deeply grateful to all those who have contributed to this project; their tireless work and dedication have resulted in a detailed guide on how to build and sustain CHYK activities. The Manual presents the best practices of various CHYK groups that have successfully undertaken CHYK activities. Their tried-and-tested methods also provide a springboard for further creative activities in the application of Vedanta in daily life. The Manual is a working document that will be revised annually to continually adapt as needed to changing times. May all CHYK Sevaks who undertake the noble service of awakening fellow seekers to the path of Vedanta benefit from this Manual. May all be inspired to serve Pujya Gurudev’s vision of empowering young adults with a dynamic approach to life. Love and Om,

Dear CHYK West Family, Hari Om! The CHYK West movement has grown significantly over the last decade. From 2003-2010, CHYKs, most notably in Chicago, organized events such as Vedanta study classes, seva projects, and creative workshops to increase spiritual awareness among youth. The focus of CHYK groups then was primarily growth at the local level.

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CHINMAYA MISSION PLEDGE

We stand as one family,

bound to each other with love and respect.

We serve as an army,

courageous and disciplined,

ever ready to fight against

all low tendencies and false values,

within and without us.

We live honestly

the noble life of sacrifice and service,

producing more than what we consume

and giving more than what we take.

We seek the Lord's grace

to keep us on the path

of virtue, courage, and wisdom.

May Thy grace and blessings

flow through us to the world around us.

We believe that the service of our country

is the service of the Lord of Lords.

and devotion to the people

is devotion to the supreme Self.

We know our responsibilities.

Give us the ability and courage to fulfill them.

Om Tat Sat

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CONTENTS 1. OVERVIEW OF CHINMAYA MISSION & CHYK

1.1 Chinmaya Mission Page 9 1.2 Chinmaya Mission West Page 9 1.3 CHYK: Chinmaya Yuva Kendra Page 11

2. WHAT IS CHYK WEST?

2.1. Objectives Page 13 2.2. Activities Page 13 2.3. Organizational Structure Page 13

3. INITIATING CHYK

3.1. How to Start a CHYK Study Group Page 15 3.2. How to Start a CHYK West Chapter Page 15 3.3. Forming a Committee Page 16 3.4. How to Form a CHYK West Student Group at Universities Page 16 3.5. Working with the Local Chinmaya Mission Center Page 17

4. CHYK STUDY GROUP

4.1. What is a Study Group? Page 18 4.2. Q&A with Pujya Guruji on Study Groups Page 18 4.3. How to conduct a CHYK Study Group Page 19 4.4. Who conducts a CHYK Study Group? Page 21 4.5. CHYK West Study Syllabus Page 21 4.6. Study Group Schedule Page 22 4.7. Class Prayers Page 22 4.8. Guru Dakshina Page 22 4.9. Additional Forums Page 23

5. ORGANIZING ACTIVITIES & EVENTS

5.1. Service Projects Page 24 5.2. Seva at Local CM Centers Page 27 5.3. Planning a Jnana Yajna, Workshop, a Camp or Retreat Page 28

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5.4. Inviting and Hosting an Acharya Page 31 5.5. Social Events Page 32 5.6. Finances Page 32

6. COMMUNICATION

6.1. Netiquette Page 34 6.2. Publicity Page 34 6.3. Creating a Flyer Page 35 6.4. CHYK West Annual Report Page 36

7. RESOURCES

7.1. CHYK West Directory Page 37 7.2. CM and CHYK Websites Page 37 7.3. CHYK on Facebook Page 37 7.4. Study Group Training Materials Page 37 7.5. Supplemental Files Page 38 7.6. Frequently Asked Questions Page 38

8. APPENDIX

A. CHYK West Organizational Chart B. Sample Waiver Form for Retreats/Service Activities/Minors C. Sample Retreat Flyer D. Sample Chinmaya Mission West Logo E. Sample Annual Report Form

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1. OVERVIEW OF CHINMAYA MISSION & CHYK “Youth is a stage in human development when the personality is bursting with energy, enthusiasm, and dynamism. This is also a phase in life when receptivity and retention are at the optimum. What they require is a clear vision of a goal in life and exercises for the cultivation of the right values of life to enable them to mould their personality and harness their inner resources along constructive channels. This systematic preparation alone can equip the youth to face the challenges of life with a smile. This essential training of youth for leadership in life is being successfully accomplished through the Chinmaya Yuva Kendra (CHYK).”

- Pujya Gurudev Swami Chinmayananda 1.1 CHINMAYA MISSION Chinmaya Mission® was established in India in 1953 by devotees of the world-renowned Vedanta teacher, His Holiness Swami Chinmayananda. Under his guidance, these devotees formed the nucleus of a spiritual renaissance movement that now encompasses a wide range of spiritual, educational, and charitable activities, ennobling the lives of thousands in India and outside its borders. Administered by Central Chinmaya Mission® Trust in Mumbai, India, the Mission is now headed by His Holiness Swami Tejomayananda. Following the Vedic teacher-taught tradition (guru-shishya parampara), Chinmaya Mission makes available the ageless wisdom of Vedanta, the knowledge of the one Reality, and provides the tools to realize that wisdom in one’s life. “To give maximum happiness to the maximum number for the maximum time” is the tenet that drives Mission workers to uplift humanity beyond selfish and sectarian attitudes and activities. Each person’s gain is manifold: personal growth, heightened efficiency, contentment, and the ability to live with others in peace and harmony, For more information, see Chinmaya Mission: Transforming Lives. 1.2 CHINMAYA MISSION WEST A small group of dedicated workers provided the labor behind the initial Chinmaya Mission® activities in the West. Publicity flyers were printed, books and pamphlets were published, talks and camps were organized, databases were compiled, and newsletters were printed and mailed to all persons who had been touched by Pujya Gurudev Swami Chinmayananda’s talks. By 1975, CM activities in the U.S. were overflowing. Pujya Gurudev instructed the devotees to incorporate Chinmaya Mission in the United States to administer the activities. He named the corporation “Chinmaya Mission West” (CMW), and its headquarters were in the homes of workers like Nalini Browning and others in the San Francisco Bay area. Over the years, inspired by Pujya Gurudev’s message and method, many devotees began Chinmaya Study Groups in their homes. From California, the activities spread to the East coast. Every summer, from 1976 onward, Gurudev conducted East Coast, West Coast, and Canada camps, and devotees who attended took the teachings back to their cities and commenced Study Groups and Bala Vihars. Students who had graduated from Vedanta courses at ‘Sandeepany

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Sadhanalaya’ in Mumbai returned to America to help start more activities and teach classes. Chinmaya Mission West planned and oversaw all these programs. As CM activities in various cities grew, local Chinmaya Mission centers were loosely formed, with committees organized to order books, plan meetings, and publicize events. Soon, these committees approached CMW for permission to open bank accounts, order books in bulk, and get flyers and materials printed and distributed. These committees became known as CM regional centers. The first Chinmaya Mission building on this continent, interestingly, was a modest structure in St. John’s, Newfoundland. An Ismaili woman donated her worldly possessions to Gurudev in 1974. From this donation came a shrine dedicated to Lord Krishna, and it was used mainly for children’s cultural and religious activities in Newfoundland. Chinmaya Mission grew exponentially in the 1980s. In 1987, Houston requested permission to purchase property for its burgeoning classes. As they sought to qualify for a bank loan, they were told by banks that loans would be difficult to get for an out-of-state corporation. So Gurudev instructed Chinmaya Mission Houston to incorporate in Texas. The affiliation with Chinmaya Mission West was to be maintained by a charter agreement between the parent corporation and the regional corporation. This set a precedent that all other centers purchasing property would follow. The next few years witnessed the dynamic growth of a number of centers, culminating in property purchases in San Jose, Chicago, Flint, Washington DC, Orlando, Philadelphia, and Los Angeles. These Mission centers incorporated in their own states. CMW’s headquarters and retreat center, ‘Krishnalaya,’ was opened on a beautiful tract of land and buildings in Northern California, in 1988. Each year thereafter witnessed further growth of the Mission in North America, as individuals—inspired by Gurudev and his able disciples—strove to unfold themselves through selfless and dedicated service to the community. After Gurudev’s mahasamadhi on August 3, 1993, His Holiness Swami Tejomayananda, Pujya Guruji, was made the Head of Chinmaya Mission Worldwide. Under his able leadership and guidance, Mission activities, centers, and projects continue to mushroom and flourish across the globe. As of June 2012, there were over 300 centers in India and over 40 centers under CMW (North America, Canada, and the Caribbean). Centers worldwide span over 20 other countries and include Australia, Bahrain, France, Hong Kong (China), Indonesia, Kenya, Kuwait, Mauritius, Nepal, New Zealand, Nigeria, Philippines, Oman, Singapore, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, United Arab Emirates, and United Kingdom. CM Trinidad houses the first Chinmaya Vidyalayas (schools) outside of India). CMW sponsored numerous national programs before 1993, such as the Gita Chanting Competition in 1992 (‘Chant Gita, Land Ganga’), the tulabhara ceremony for Pujya Gurudev, and audio and video publication projects. CMW’s main projects today are ‘Krishnalaya’, its national website, and its publications division of Chinmaya Publications (CP).

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CMW’s headquarters and retreat center called ‘Krishnalaya’ lies 200 miles north of San Francisco, in Piercy’s serene Redwood country, near the California coast, on the banks of the Eel River (which Pujya Gurudev dubbed as the “Eel Ganga”). This first CMW property in USA was purchased in 1979, and consists of a beautiful tract of land and buildings. It serves as CMW’s headquarters and is a retreat center that hosts adult and children’s camps. CMW conducted the first and only two-year Vedanta Course outside India at Krishnalaya, 1979-1982. It is here that Pujya Gurudev held his month-long camps on Vivekachudamani and the entire Bhagavad Gita, which was professionally videotaped in 1991. As CMW evolved over the years, molding the shape of Chinmaya Mission in North America, Pujya Gurudev and the CMW Board of Directors redefined CMW’s role. It would no longer be the sole organizer of yajnas, camps, and other regionally oriented activities. Gurudev gave a clear mandate that CMW’s most important role is to oversee the activities of all Chinmaya Mission centers in the U.S. CMW will help groups of devotees begin regional activities, form centers, and incorporate. CMW will ensure that the vision of Chinmaya Mission is kept pure and true to its ideals, and that the policies established by Pujya Gurudev are faithfully adhered. CMW’s duties and responsibilities are to coordinate and oversee the activities of all regional centers in North America. CMW is also responsible for initiating and supervising new national projects and policies for all its CM regional centers. 1.3 CHYK: CHINMAYA YUVA KENDRA Chinmaya Yuva Kendra (CHYK) is the global youth wing of Chinmaya Mission and was formed in 1975. The aim is to increase spiritual awareness among youth so that they live life purposefully - with a clear and noble personal vision and an attitude of service to the community. The primary objective of the youth wing is to unfold one’s personality and potential, through enlightenment of the intellect and enrichment of character. In this way, the youth are better able to face the challenges and realities of life with a smile. CHYK aims to cultivate positive qualities in youth such as equipoise, determination, resilience, cooperation, and courage which are necessary to succeed in life. Today we have over one hundred CHYK groups throughout the world. The CHYK motto is: “Harnessing youth potential through dynamic spirituality.” As Chinmaya Bala Vihar students graduate from high school and move to the next stage of their lives, their quest for spiritual knowledge follows. CHYK provides an avenue for further self-exploration and satsang (association with the noble).

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CHYKs with Acharya Vivek Gupta in Kerala, Chinmaya Inspiration Yatra 2011

CHYKs with Pujya Guruji at Shri Chinmaya Mahasamadhi Camp 2011

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2. WHAT IS CHYK WEST? 2.1. OBJECTIVES

CHYK West strives to unite young adults by providing them with a forum to explore, discuss, and practice the universal teachings of Advaita Vedanta (the philosophy of Oneness taught in the Upanishads of the Vedas) for spiritual unfoldment, while strengthening their dynamic potential and inspiration to live harmonious lives and serve their families, communities, and the world at large. The objectives of CHYK include the following: To provide a spiritual forum for young adults from post-high school to young professionals To introduce the message of Vedanta and increase awareness of this knowledge To unite members of CHYK spiritually through satsang and seva To build and develop future leaders for Chinmaya Mission and the community To act as a resource for the Mission family and the community at-large To serve the community, in particular the underprivileged To unite and communicate with CHYK groups worldwide to connect with the Global

CHYK movement 2.2. ACTIVITIES The activities of CHYK West focus on the spiritual unfoldment of each member. For this, regular Vedantic study and consequently living Vedanta in daily life with firm conviction are essential. Weekly CHYK Study Groups are conducted across North America. CHYK West also offers a variety of spiritual camps and retreats, interactive workshops, service projects, field trips, cultural activities, and social events. CHYK events, global, national, and local, have been greatly appreciated and lauded around the world as powerful opportunities to learn, grow, and visibly transform on their spiritual path to Truth. 2.3. ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE CHYK West is governed by functions under the direction and guidance of Pujya Guruji Swami Tejomayananda, the CMW Board of Directors, and the National and Deputy Directors of CHYK West as appointed by Pujya Guruji. CHYK West’s National and Deputy Directors are aided by a Steering Committee comprised of CHYKs appointed by the CHYK West Directors. The Core Committee reports to the Steering Committee and is comprised of the Core Coordinators of CHYK West chapters. Please see Appendix A.

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CHYK West has groups in cities or regions across North America. These groups are led by their respective Core Coordinators, who guide and oversee all CHYK study groups and activities in their area. Each CHYK Study Group is led by a CHYK Sevak, who reports to his respective Core Coordinator or may himself/herself be the Core Coordinator. A committee of local CHYK coordinators with various roles and responsibilities may also be formed. CHYK Committees are typically chaired by the Coordinator for the CHYK West Chapter.

CHYK West Steering Committee at Shri Chinmaya Mahasamadhi Camp 2011

CHYK West Steering Committee with Pujya Guruji, Swami Mitrananda (National Director, All-India CHYK), Swami Sarveshananda (National

Director, CHYK West) and Acharya Vivek Gupta (Deputy Director, CHYK West) at Cam-Tra-Con 2012

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3. INITIATING CHYK 3.1. HOW TO START A CHYK STUDY GROUP Three or more individuals wanting to form a CHYK Study Group in their local area can contact the Steering Committee at chykwest@chinmayamission.org. The Steering Committee will provide a syllabus and information for ordering books. 3.2. HOW TO START A CHYK WEST CHAPTER A CHYK West Chapter is established in a city or region where at least one CHYK Study Group is regularly being conducted in that area. The CHYK West Chapter name would be “CHYK West (City).” To form a CHYK Group, local CHYKs must submit an online application form to the Steering Committee. This form is available online on http://chykwest.wufoo.com/forms/chyk-group-application-form/. Upon approval, CHYK West will assign a mentor to provide ongoing guidance. The Steering Committee will also appoint the Coordinator (Core member) who will be part of the Core Committee which comprises all coordinators in North America. The new CHYK West Chapter will be informed if there is a nearby Chinmaya Mission center that can assist. Please note that use of the CHYK name requires written permission from CHYK West. Once the CHYK West Chapter formation is approved by the Board, and a Coordinator is designated, the Coordinator will receive a letter of authorization from CHYK West to use the name “CHYK West” for their group. After the formal establishment of the CHYK West Chapter, the Coordinator should contact and inform the local Mission center, and establish rapport to support local mission activities. Each Chapter Coordinator will receive an official CHYK West e-mail ID for use in all publicity materials. The Coordinator will provide updates on local activities through the CHYK West Annual Report Form to be completed by all CHYK West Chapters each year. The Coordinator should stay in close contact with the respective mentor and be sure to check with the mentor before starting an activity and publishing flyers/websites of any program.

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3.3. FORMING A COMMITTEE The local CHYK committee is comprised of the following: Position Roles/Responsibilities CHYK Coordinator (Core)

- Guides and oversees local CHYK classes and activities - Delegate tasks for events - Communicates with the Steering Committee/mentor and local CM

center on a timely basis Finance Coordinator - Maintains budget

- Provides reimbursements - Prepares and submits financial reports

Activities Coordinator ‐ Coordinate service projects ‐ Communicates and works with Publicity Coordinator, local

Chinmaya Mission center and the community ‐ Develops a calendar of classes and events as approved by the

committee ‐ Supervises planning and execution of all events or delegates

manpower Publicity Coordinator - Maintain media accounts (Facebook, website)

- Send weekly meeting reminders - Prepare and distribute advertising materials (posters, pamphlets, etc.)

3.4. HOW TO START A CHYK WEST CHAPTER AT UNIVERSITIES Registering a CHYK West Chapter within a university can provide several benefits, including: • Free or nominal charges for use of university facilities • Official listing and recognition as a student group • Possible university funding to organize special events or invite CMW acharyas The publicized name should be “CHYK West (full name of university).” However, when registering, use the full official name of “Chinmaya Yuva Kendra (CHYK) West (name of university).” To form a CHYK group on a university campus, consult the local Chapter Coordinator and obtain the necessary paperwork from the university. All paperwork must be completed carefully and submitted only after receiving the Core member’s approval. Paperwork may differ for student groups affiliated with non-university organizations. Most universities require the student group to file a constitution. Please email chykwest@chinmayamission.org for a sample of the Articles of Constitution for a university CHYK group. All official documents required by universities for forming a CHYK chapter must be reviewed and pre-approved by the CHYK West and CMW before filing. Contact chykwest@chinmayamission.org for approval.

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3.5. WORKING WITH THE LOCAL CHINMAYA MISSION CENTER CHYK is an extension and representative of the local Chinmaya Mission center. As such, CHYKs should work harmoniously with the center and ensure there are no calendar conflicts with planned activities and events. CHYKs should support and participate in the center’s activities to offer seva as much as possible, and welcome Mission family members to participate in CHYK service projects.

CHYK selling books at CM Austin’s Holi Festival 2012

CHYKs and Junior CHYKs helping with food service at CM Austin’s Holi Festival 2012

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4. CHYK STUDY GROUPS In order to seek and discover one’s inner potential, CHYK focuses on spiritual growth and scriptural studies of Advaita Vedanta through Study Groups. The cornerstone of CHYK activities is the Study Group, wherein participants meet to study and discuss Vedantic texts based on a Chinmaya Mission study syllabus developed by Pujya Gurudev and supplemented by Pujya Guruji. 4.1. WHAT IS A STUDY GROUP? Chinmaya Study Groups have been the backbone of the Chinmaya Movement. The goal of a Chinmaya Study Group is to bring together individuals to collectively reflect on principles of Vedanta, stimulate inquiry into Vedanta, enhance self-reflection, and draw from each other’s insights. The first Chinmaya Study Group for adults formed in 1953 in Chennai, India. The Study Group was conceived as a means of ensuring continued interest in Vedantic and scriptural studies. The Chinmaya Study Group syllabi for adults and CHYKs are designed to progressively imbibe the subtler teachings in Vedantic scriptures. 4.2. Q&A WITH PUJYA GURUJI ON STUDY GROUPS What was Pujya Gurudev’s vision in forming Chinmaya Study Groups? This is what Pujya Gurudev said about Study Groups: “Mere listening to my yajnas will not add to your beauty. These ideas are to be reflected deeply and digested slowly. This process is hastened only when you discuss what you have studied with others. Study Groups constitute the heart of our Mission. The ideas gathered by you, when discussed with others, not only become deeply rooted in yourself, but as they become clearer in your own understanding, they also inspire those who listen to you. Thus, each student, while trying to strengthen his own understanding, can become an instrument to spread this knowledge. This process is the dynamic study scheme followed in Vedantic tradition. This is not a Chinmaya methodology; it is the most ancient Vedantic tradition of study.” What attracts people to a Study Group? Two things attract people to Study Group: a) If their needs of life are fulfilled and b) If their interests are fulfilled. In life, one sees that a highly spiritual person has minimum material needs and a highly materialistic person has minimum spiritual needs. You also have some people who feel the need, but are unable to sustain their interest because their expectations are too high.

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What factors are involved in spiritual learning? Four factors, each as important as the other, make the learning process complete: 25% Guru’s blessings, 25% self study, 25% group study, and 25% time. How should each text be studied? Every text has a central theme around which it revolves; look for this first. Each verse should be taken up in this sequence: the word meanings, the translation of the verse, the commentary, and the sum and substance of the verse. How can discussions be made more interesting? Applicability to daily life of the knowledge gained through study should be stressed. Use real life examples for this. You may also ask the members to express their understanding in their own way. For example, someone interested in poetry could write the theme of the verse as a poem or prose; an artist could depict it as a drawing or painting; a musician could tune the verse in some raga (musical melody); or a grammarian could explain the Sanskrit grammar. You could also have small quizzes of “fill in the blanks” or “complete the verse” to keep up the interest of the members. How do we find sevaks and maintain attendance? Low numbers in Study Groups need not deter us, because even in worldly activities, the number of people working sincerely is always less. The objective of the Study Group should be very clear to all members. Without this, there cannot be any commitment among sevaks or members, and the problem of dwindling attendance would continue. The purpose of life is Self-realization, and therefore, all our activities should be toward this goal. On this path, jnana yajnas (series of free, public spiritual discourses by Chinmaya Mission acharyas) give us the vision of the shastras (scriptures) through shravanam (listening). The Study Group is a forum for mananam (reflection) and the digestion of ideas, so that our knowledge is free from doubts. Spiritual health is as important as physical health. Just as a hospital helps us regain physical health, it is the responsibility of each Study Group member to help make the discussion fruitful and interesting through regular study. As far as sevaks are concerned, sometimes there is a fear in the mind of not knowing enough, which results in members hesitating to become sevaks. Sevaks must have an attitude of readiness to share the benefits that they have gained with other members of the group. A positive attitude will give maximum benefit to the sevaks. Occasionally, in case of unresolved doubts or questions, the group can write these and get them clarified from a Chinmaya Mission acharya. 4.3. HOW TO CONDUCT A CHYK STUDY GROUP A CHYK Study Group typically consists of three and more individuals who meet weekly, on a regular basis, for a 90-minute class that follows the CHYK West syllabus of study.

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The class should be held in a quiet place where the group can meet freely without distractions (local Chinmaya Mission center, member’s home, or comfortable public setting). Where possible, a clean altar with a lit candle, and small photos of Lord Ganesha and Pujya Gurudev, should be set. Ideally, CHYK Study Group members should meet in person on a weekly basis. If this is not possible, then other options—such as teleconference, webcast, or biweekly meetings—may be considered after receiving guidance from the Chapter Coordinator. Some important points include: • The traditional Chinmaya Mission greeting to all members is “Hari OM.” • All classes should start and end on time. • Attending class regularly and punctually is vital for all CHYKs. • Attire for all classes must be modest and appropriate. • Food and drink are not to be consumed during class. • Each student must purchase the required textbook for study and bring it to each class. The

CHYK group can order texts through local Chinmaya Mission centers. If there is no nearby center, the order can be placed directly through chinmayapublications.com.

• Text reading may be completed in the class or before the class, as decided by the group. • All members should participate in discussions equally. • Discussions should be kept relevant to the topic at hand.

CHYKs engaged in group discussion with Acharya Vivek Gupta, CHYK West Houston Camp 2010

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4.4. WHO CONDUCTS A CHYK STUDY GROUP? The CHYK Sevak (or other designated CHYK volunteer) facilitates class discussions and helps answer questions or clear doubts on the subject material. The Sevak will use techniques that enhance discussion, ensuring all members have an opportunity to share their thoughts and questions. Trained CHYK Sevaks guide Study Group members to reflect deeply, examine logically, and share viewpoints based on their comprehension and personal experiences. Through such contemplation, students gain a more meaningful and practical insight into scriptural texts, and come to live Vedantic teachings on the strength of their convictions. The CHYK Sevak also announces any class assignments, changes in meeting, upcoming CHYK or Chinmaya Mission events, and administrative matters. The general format of a study group session is described in Section 4.6. The Sevak should provide a comfortable space for discussion and adopt techniques that will enhance discussion, for instance, ensuring all members have an opportunity to share their thoughts and questions. For helpful tips, please refer to the following resources: http://chinmayasaaket.org/activities/studygroupfacilitatortraining.php http://www.ustream.tv/recorded/12643799 4.5. CHYK WEST SYLLABUS CHYK age group is 17-28 years. Students in 11th and 12th grades will follow existing Chinmaya Bala Vihar syllabus at CM centers. From university level onward, the prescribed syllabus for CHYK West is as follows:

No. Text Duration of Study 1. We Must 3 months 2. Logic of Spirituality 9 months 3. Vedanta in Action 1 year 4. Kindle Life 6 months 5 Timeless Values 6 months 6. Jivan Sutrani 1 year 7. Youth Keeping Balance 1 year 8. Sadhana Panchakam 6 months 9. Manual of Self-Unfoldment 18 months 10. Art of Man-making 1 year 11. Bhaja Govindam 6 months 12. Beyond Stress 6 months 13. Meditation & Life 1 year 14. Education: Toward Inner Transformation 1 year

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4.6. STUDY GROUP SCHEDULE

• Invocation Prayer • Attendance • Introduction of new members • Recap of previous lesson by Sevak or other member • Class reading and discussions:

o Reading is done aloud in class, typically in rotation, or before coming to class. The group should decide the format before starting a text.

o After each chapter, or verse, or main topic, each member should express his understanding of what has been read, adding relevant comments and/or examples.

o The CHYK Sevak should raise questions to stimulate discussion where needed. o Unresolved doubts may be written down by the Sevak and e-mailed to a CMW acharya

for clarification. • Concluding Prayer

4.7. CLASS PRAYERS Invocation Prayer om saha naavavatu saha nau bhunaktu saha viiryam karavaavahai tejasvinaavadhiitam-astu ma vidvishaavahai-i om, shantih, shantih, shantihi OM. May the Lord protect us both (teacher and student). May He cause us both to enjoy. May we both exert (to discover the true meaning of the scriptures). May our studies be thorough and brilliant. May we not misunderstand each other. OM, peace, peace, peace. Concluding Prayer om purNam-adah purNam-idam purNaat purNam-udachyate purNasya purNam-aadaaya purNam-evaavashishyate

om, shantih shantih shantihi harihi om shrii gurubhyo namaha harihi om OM. That (supreme Reality, OM) is whole (complete). This (creation) is whole. From that Whole, wholeness has come forth. Of the Whole, when wholeness is removed, what remains is That whole alone. OM, peace, peace, peace. Salutations to the Truth. Salutations to the Guru. Salutations to the Truth. 4.8. GURU DAKSHINA In Vedic tradition, on concluding study, the disciple makes an offering to the Guru to express his indebted gratitude for receiving spiritual knowledge. So, too, on concluding a text in Study Group, members offer Guru Dakshina to Pujya Gurudev to help support the spiritual work and social

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service projects of Chinmaya Mission. At the end of the year, members may bring their Guru Dakshina offering in a sealed envelope and offer at the altar (or to the acharya present). 4.9. ADDITIONAL FORUMS Local forums to stimulate Vedantic discussions can be created through blogs, Facebook, message boards, and Google groups. Visit chykwest.com to see what forums may be available. Many CM acharyas’ discourses are also freely available for viewing on the Chinmaya Internet Channel and on YouTube. For specific guidance on recommended video discourses, contact chykwest@chinmayamission.org. Each discussion group is likely to encounter questions that are unresolved. Keep a log of these questions if they cannot be answered right away. Many resources are available to the CHYKs to explore their unanswered questions. Options include (but are not limited to):

Inviting an acharya to the discussion every couple of months

o One session can be dedicated to answering these questions as well as other questions that may arise.

o This allows a clearer understanding of the material before the group is ready to continue forward with the text.

YouTube Discourses

o Although specific questions may not be directly addressed, there are many discourses posted on YouTube help discussion group members gain additional knowledge to help resolve various doubts, providing an acharya’s perspective on a vast topics.

o These videos can be found at:

www.youtube.com/CHYKchicago

www.youtube.com/chinmayamission

www.youtube.com/siddhaji

YouTube search: swami chinmayananda

o If you wish to share discourse videos from your Study Group, email the CHYK West web team: webteam@chykwest.com

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5. ORGANIZING ACTIVITIES & EVENTS Organizing CHYK or community events in the spirit of selfless service is an ideal platform for inner growth. Through service projects, CHYK volunteers also get to refine their skills in goal setting, planning, teamwork, resourcefulness, adaptability, communication, and time management, and learn to put a noble cause above personal likes and dislikes. Working together in a group toward a common idea is a learning process. Swami Chinmayananda showed how to serve with yajna spirit as taught in Bhagavad Gita. Thorough and respectful communication is key. If differences arise that are not easily solved, contact your CHYK mentor for consultation. Please note that all event proposals should be sent to the Steering Committee at chykwest@chinmayamission.org prior to publicity of the event. 5.1. SERVICE PROJECTS Offering seva as a CHYK group is a great way to benefit the community and build friendships among CHYKs. When selecting a local service project, the following guidelines should be considered: • Research the organization and ensure that its core values and vision are in line with those of

CHYK West. • One option is to serve in existing volunteer projects, such as soup kitchens, homeless shelters,

blood banks, toy drives, food drives, painting schools, tutoring children, reading to the elderly, environmental cleanup, disaster relief, etc. CHYK West Chapter Coordinators should discuss options with local CHYKs to select an appropriate project.

• To initiate a new volunteer project idea, it may be helpful to pool resources and collaborate with another local organization with similar vision and goals.

• When planning, develop a checklist to identify the needs and tangible goals, the means and materials to accomplish the goals, a project leader, the project timeline, potential partners for collaboration (if any), potential donors and sponsors, publicity, etc.

• Post-event goals include sharing photos and reports with news outlets and CHYK West; thank you letters to donors, sponsors, and volunteers; and project evaluation for greater successes in the future.

• In fundraising for noble causes, Pujya Guruji Swami Tejomayananda has said, “Don’t be afraid to ask. It is your job to ask and it is their choice to give or not to give.” Some successful fundraisers in the past have included: • Krishna Carnivals or Lord Krishna-themed Fun Fairs • OM Cooking Competitions • Music/Dance/Drama Talent Shows • Walkathons

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CORD is the Chinmaya Organization for Rural Development serving India and Sri Lanka as of 2011. CORD USA, formed in 2009, is a registered nonprofit organization dedicated to social services. CORD USA’s scope includes seva projects in the U.S. as well. Most social service projects organized by CHYKs can and should be offered under the CORD USA banner. Documentation and funds collected from such projects should be submitted to CORD USA promptly. Contact the CORD USA Secretary at secretary@cordusa.org for details.

CHYKs doing seva at the CHYK West Seva Retreat 2011 in Austin, Texas

When envisioning new projects, consider the following:

Identify the need(s) to be fulfilled. Identify the goal. Examples: o Raising money for noble causes o Supporting needy children o Providing food/clothing for disaster relief

How to fill this need and accomplish the goal Time frame:

o Lead time to event (if applicable) o Goal for completion date

Tasks o Create awareness: publicity, e-commerce, word-of-mouth o Secure a location (if applicable) o Build the team; partner with local community for vendors, supplies, and donors

Ask for help: o Give tasks to those who can deliver o Count on family, friends, community, colleagues

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Once tangible and impact-based goals are set, find ways to accomplish them. Designate a person/team to spearhead the seva project and to give progress updates. Hold the team accountable remembering that the set goals can make a difference. Organize materials ahead of time. When using vendors/suppliers/community help, make confirmation calls so all runs smoothly on event day. Make a timeline and checklist of all tasks. Every project goes beyond the “Day of” duties: Pre, during, post (delivering materials/money, sharing reports/photos online and to news outlets, writing thank you letters to donors/volunteers, etc). Seva projects are the ideal ground for learning; growing and strengthening a CHYK group. The team may make mistakes; evaluate and learn from all failures and successes. Have open communication, and when something works/doesn’t work, support the team. When the project faces a challenge, brainstorm and think outside the box for a solution. Welcome challenges and work together to stay positive and productive, and have fun! As with other CHYK activities, pursue seva projects with the yajna spirit of collaboration, cooperation, and selflessness.

CHYKs with Swami Sarveshananda at CHYK West Austin Camp in 2007

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5.2. SEVA AT LOCAL CM CENTERS CHYKs can get involved and serve at local Chinmaya Mission centers in various ways, including how to garner support for local CM activities. Some ideas are as follows: 1) Promote and sell Chinmaya publications by organizing book fairs and bookstalls. For example,

CHYKs can help their local centers ensure that all books are well presented, and that audio and video samples are available for hearing and viewing, respectively, at all events and festivals, at Mission and non-Mission events. • Encourage the bulk discount sale of Chinmaya publications at family events, for distribution

as door/guest gifts at wedding, birthday, or anniversary celebrations. • Conduct book sales at various local community events conducted by cultural associations.

2) Chinmaya Bala Vihar is Chinmaya Mission’s worldwide spiritual and cultural education

program for children in grades KG-12. As senior Chinmaya Bala Vihar students graduate and move to the next stage of their lives, their continued quest for spiritual knowledge can be encouraged. CHYK can provide this avenue for Self‐inquiry and satsang. CHYKs can engage with Chinmaya Bala Vihar (BV) grade 9-10 high school students—also referred to as Junior CHYKs (JCHYKs)—through teaching, co-teaching, and mentoring, to build a healthy rapport and help welcome them into CHYK. • Teach or facilitate a JCHYK class at your local Chinmaya Mission center; teaching allows

us to share our knowledge and solidifies our own understanding of the subject • Organize social events, such as lock-ins, laser tag, movie & pizza nights, field trips, dinners,

picnics, hiking, and game nights • Conduct college preparatory seminars • Organize day or overnight themed camps or workshops conducted by CM acharyas • Offer free tutoring for college level exams • Organize meet-n-greet sessions • For all events, ensure proper chaperones and signed parental consent with waiver of

liability, as applicable (see Appendix B)

CHYKs and Junior CHYKs celebrating “CHYKsgiving” at CM Houston in 2011

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3) Help local CM senior citizens with various tasks, such as providing groceries or running errands with them or for them.

4) Help the local center with audio/visual operations, website design, children’s activities, special

events, etc. 5.3. PLANNING A JNANA YAJNA, WORKSHOP, CAMP, OR RETREAT CHYK West Chapters should periodically invite CMW acharyas to conduct workshops, or camps in their local area. Organizing interactive workshops or informal satsangs with CMW acharyas greatly benefits the local community and raises awareness about Vedanta and Chinmaya Mission. To invite an acharya for a jnana yajna, CHYK West chapters should coordinate with the local CM center and support planning of the event. Hosting a retreat is one of the most effective ways of engendering interest in Vedanta and publicizing the weekly CHYK Study Group. The concentrated dose of learning and growth in a retreat can result in many inspired and active CHYK members, old and new.

CHYKs with Acharya Vivek Gupta and Brahmachari Prabodh Chaitanya at the CHYK West Camp 2011 in Piercy, California

One goal of a retreat is to create and maintain a saatvik atmosphere (conducive to reflection and contemplation). Chinmaya Mission espouses vegetarian diet and no alcohol. Strive to provide

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healthy options during meals, with plenty of fruits and vegetables. Encourage eco-friendliness in the form of recycling and reusing cups, plates, etc. Providing attendees with plates and utensils to use for the entire retreat can be one method, as long as proper cleaning facilities are available. Pujya Gurudev said, “Live in the minimum, create the maximum, and give the rest to the world outside.” Uphold self-discipline and high moral standards for conduct during the retreat. Some guidelines to keep in mind include: 1) Collectively propose to organize an event, showing how it will be financially self-sustaining. 2) Complete and submit the event proposal to the Steering Committee via email. 3) After receiving approval, invite a CMW acharya to conduct the event. 4) Ask the acharya for the main text/topic and theme (camp title). 5) Video-recording lectures and other events are an excellent means to review the material learned

and share with the global CHYK Family. All videos can be posted on YouTube’s Chinmaya Channel.

6) One of the goals at a CHYK retreat is to create and maintain a saatvik atmosphere that is healthy for spiritual growth. This is provided by giving due and detailed attention to the schedule timings, types of activities, nutrition in meals, and eco-friendliness in all aspects. As Pujya Gurudev has taught, Chinmaya Mission members should create the maximum, live with the minimum, and give the rest to the world.

7) It is helpful to conduct a post-retreat follow up with all the attendees, providing them with information about CHYK study groups, books, and video resources. See page 32 for a sample e-mail.

8) Video interviews of CHYK campers who attended a retreat can also be included on blogs or in reports posted on the CHYK West website. Reports, photos, and videos should be submitted to CHYK West on a timely basis.

CHYKs with Swami Sarveshananda at CHYK West Boston Camp 2005

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POST RETREAT FOLLOW UP After the conclusion of the retreat it is a good idea to follow up with participants by providing information about attending study groups, books, and video resources. In addition, it is important to send out a post-retreat survey to obtain feedback regarding the format, schedule and activities at the retreat. For a sample of a post-retreat survey form, please contact the Steering Committee at chykwest@chinmayamission.org . ‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐Sample Post-Retreat Email ‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐ Hari Om! It was an honor to meet with you last weekend! We’d love to hear your thoughts about the camp. If you left before filling out a camp survey please click on the link below to offer your feedback. Your feedback is valuable in improving CHYK camps all across the country. Please do not fill out the form if you have already done so at camp. Camp Survey: {insert link here} Keeping Your Satsang Alive! It is important to keep up your satsang well after a camp. CHYK West has various activities and forums to do this: [Add list of resources] Discourses on Youtube Q & As on Ustream Facebook Twitter Local CHYK Events: CHYK West <Name of City> Twitter - Keep informed about CHYK events in Houston. CHYK West <Name of City> Google Group - Send an email to _____ to be added. CHYK Camp Blog: Last but not least, XX and YY were interviewed on their thoughts about the camp. Check out their video log at <insert link> We hope to see you at future CHYK camps! The next one is in <Name of City> from <insert date> called <Title of Retreat> (please see attached flyer) Sign up now for the early bird rate! In His Service, <Full Name of CHYK> CHYK Group, City

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CHYKs with Acharya Vivek Gupta at the CHYK West Camp 2011 in Houston, Texas 5.4. INVITING AND HOSTING AN ACHARYA Many acharyas’ schedules are booked 8-12 months in advance, so timely planning is key. Visit chinmayamission.org to see the listing of CMW acharyas. Acharyas should be humbly requested to conduct a program. A sample invitation letter for an event is given below. Other than for “Pujya Guruji,” acharyas are to be addressed using their title and first name, without abbreviations: i.e., Swami Sarveshananda-ji, Brahmachari Prabodh-ji, Acharya Vivek-ji, etc. ‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐Sample Email ‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐ Hari OM, _____________ ji, Pranaams! CHYK West is organizing a spiritual retreat for young professionals and university students with a proposed theme of “X” from _________ to__________ in (name of city), (name of state). It is our great privilege to invite you as the main (or “an”) Acharya for the retreat. Please confirm your availability at your earliest convenience, by (date). We can work together to finalize the theme and other ideas for the camp as we proceed. Love and OM, (full name and city/state or name of CHYK Group) -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

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Once an acharya accepts an invitation, finalize all visit details, such as transportation, host family or hotel lodging, diet restrictions, and bhiksha (meal)/snacks/tea/coffee timings and preferences. Include the following in the checklist to ensure the acharya is hosted appropriately:

• Punctual airport pick-up/drop-off in a clean vehicle (keep bottled water) • Host residence must be clean, comfortable, and peaceful • Amenities should include clean and fresh bed and bath linens, and toiletries • Punctual pick-up/drop-off for all classes/activities/bhikshas scheduled

Inform the acharya of the total amount collected for guru dakshina (donations from programs) and from bhikshas (donations offered at meals), as well as total event expenses (including acharya’s travel expenses). Ask the acharya to inform the donation amount on the check payable to “Chinmaya Mission.” This check is to be given or mailed to the acharya. The acharya may request a separate check in his name for the reimbursement of travel or other personal expenses. 5.5. SOCIAL EVENTS A healthy social environment provides a good framework for CHYKs to help build rapport, camaraderie, and team skills. CHYK socials are also nurturing and fun forums to welcome and raise CHYK awareness for newcomers, during which personal introductions and icebreaker sessions are recommended. All CHYK social activities should be in line with the values and vision of CHYK. Alcohol, drugs, animal products (including gelatin and egg based products) are strictly prohibited. Successful CHYK socials in the past have included: • Dinner and a movie

• Sports such as bowling, Ultimate Frisbee, volleyball

• Field trips to places promoting art, culture, or education (museums, zoos, etc.)

• Nature hikes

• Bonfires, campouts

• Pot luck dinners, Iron Chef CHYK

• Game nights

• Picnics, veggie barbecues

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Campfire at a CHYK West Camp in Toronto, 2011

5.6. FINANCES Each chapter should have a CHYK designated as in-charge of accounting and finances. This can be the Chapter Coordinator, or Working Committee Finance Coordinator, or a volunteer CHYK who has some basic accounting knowledge. The designated CHYK must accurately record all expenses and income from special activities and events conducted by CHYK. If there is nearby CM center, then the CHYK group will not have separate bank accounts from the CM center. Where CHYK groups are part of a university, accounts need to be kept with the University, and the CHYK West Annual Report should include accounts of that CHYK group. In a city where there is a Core member and where there are numerous CHYK university groups, then such accounts will be furnished to the Core member, and be included as part of the CHYK West Annual Report. Some additional important guidelines include: • Income deposits and expense withdrawals should be earmarked in the local Chinmaya Mission

center’s bank account, and made with pre-approval from the Chapter Coordinator. If there isn’t a center nearby, contact the Steering Committee.

• Payments for all purchases and expenses should be made on a timely basis. • An annual financial report must be submitted to the CHYK West Board every January through

the CHYK West Annual Report Form. • All CHYK events should be self-sustaining. The Steering Committee can be approached for

recommendations on how to accomplish various goals for any CHYK event. • Expenses for transportation or social events are borne by members individually. CHYK Study Groups are free of charge. The expenses for a CHYK Study Group are minimal. Members should buy their Study Group textbooks through their local CM center when possible or online from www.chinmayapublications.com.

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6. COMMUNICATION & PUBLICITY All public correspondence and publicity materials of a CHYK West Chapter should include the following: official CW Chapter name, CW website address, official CW Chapter email address, CHYK logo, and OM symbol. 6.1. NETIQUETTE

Each CHYK West Chapter should have one volunteer designated to send all CHYK e-mails. This person may be the CHYK West Core Coordinator, Study Group Sevak, or Publicity Coordinator of the Committee. Additional guidelines include: • Other than e-flyers, messages should typically start and end with “Hari OM.” • E-mail distribution should be reasonable, informative, and not overly aggressive or frequent. • It is best to send the minimum number of emails and state the minimum necessary to convey

the main point(s), conveying other related points in person. It can be helpful to create a brief, numbered outline at the start of the e-mail so that readers can easily see the main points to be addressed.

• E-flyers should be converted into JPG and embedded in e-mails rather than sent as attachments. 6.2. PUBLICITY

Word-of-mouth has historically been the best way to spread awareness about a local CHYK group. Below are some more ideas:

Contact your CHYK West mentor: Your CHYK West mentor will give guidance on CHYK activities and publicity, including checking and approving local publicity materials.

Invite high school seniors: Early in the year, contact the local CM center on speaking about CHYK at the year-end (in May/June) Chinmaya Bala Vihar graduation ceremony for high school seniors.

Arrange meet-and-greet sessions or socials between CHYKs and high schoolers to build

rapport

Personalize emails: Personalize emails with a description of CHYK, along with the meeting time and location, to invite individuals to join CHYK. These invitations should be respectful and welcoming, but not overly aggressive.

CHYK listserv: Collect contact information from CHYK class and event attendees, requesting

permission to add them to the CHYK database. Listserv can be used to send weekly class

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information to a university’s student groups and database of international students. This practice will ensure that CHYK attendance is maintained.

CHYK Google calendar: Prepare a Google calendar all class and event details, and publicize

as needed.

Contact similar student groups: On many university campuses, there are student groups that focus on discussing topics within Hinduism or Indian culture. CHYKs can raise awareness either by contacting or joining these groups. CHYKs can present and introduce CHYK classes to interested university student groups

Contact and coordinate with local yoga/meditation centers, university departments, and

student groups: Host relevant talks or workshops by CM acharyas. Use international student listservs: Many universities have a listserv for international students.

Since many international students come from India, it is possible that some are interested in Vedanta. The CHYK description, time, and location of the study group can all be emailed to this listserv.

Facebook events: Use Facebook to invite newcomers and acquaintances to study Vedanta

through CHYK.

Host a CHYK retreat: If the CHYK group has the time and resources, hosting a retreat is one of the most effective ways of engendering interest in Vedanta and publicizing the weekly group. The concentrated dose of learning and growth provided by the retreat results in passionate, active CHYKs.

Advertise on Indian community sites and/or in local stores.

6.3. CREATING A FLYER All flyers should be sent to the Steering Committee for pre-approval at least two weeks prior to the publicity release date. After approval, before the release of the flyer, all event details should be submitted for posting on chykwest.com. A CHYK flyer should be eye-catching, simple, and comprehensive (see Appendix C). Create a sample flyer with all details below The following guidelines should be considered when designing a CHYK flyer: • The OM symbol, CMW logo, and CHYK logo should be prominent. A sample of the CMW

logo is in Appendix D. The CHYK logo can be downloaded at http://chykwest.com/downloads/

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• The title should be presented as a CHYK West event, or prefaced with “CHYK West presents” or “CHYK West welcomes you to.” Listing the name of the local CHYK West Chapter organizing the event is optional.

• The theme, date, venue, acharyas’ full name and CM center, and text/topic should be specified. • The registration amount should specify if lodging, boarding (meals), and transportation are

included or excluded. If a discounted rate is given, the deadline date must also be stated. All deadline dates should be carefully determined and implemented so that date extensions do not cause loss of credibility in the future.

• The CHYK West website should be listed along with one e-mail and phone contact.

• The flyer should specify if online registration is available, and if so, the related webpage should be listed.

6.4. CHYK WEST ANNUAL REPORT

On a yearly basis, CHYK West Chapters will be required to report their activities in an Annual Report on January 1 regarding activities in the preceding year. A financial report should be attached to the Annual Report Form and emailed to chykwest@chinmayamission.org. Reports are to be completed and submitted by the CHYK Core coordinator. See Appendix E for a sample Annual Report Form.

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7. RESOURCES

7.1. CHYK WEST DIRECTORY Chairman: Pujya Guruji Swami Tejomayananda guruji@chinmayamission.com, Tel: +91-22-2857-8647 National Director: Swami Sarveshananda sarveshananda@chinmayamission.org, Tel: +1-214-850-2165 Deputy Director: Acharya Vivek Gupta vivekgupta@chinmayamission.org, Tel: +1-905-356-4451 CHYK West Steering Committee: chykwest@chinmayamission.org General Inquiries: chykwest@chinmayamission.org CHYK West Web Team: webteam@chykwest.com 7.2. CM AND CHYK WEBSITES CHYK West: http://www.chykwest.com Global CHYK: http://www.chinmayamission.com/chyk.php Chinmaya Mission Worldwide (CCMT): http://www.chinmayamission.com Chinmaya Mission North America (CMW): http://www.chinmayamission.org Chinmaya Publications: http://www.chinmayapublications.com CORD USA: http://www.cordusa.org Chinmaya International Foundation (CIF): http://www.chinfo.org 7.3. CHYK ON FACEBOOK Meet the CHYK West Family: http://www.facebook.com/chykwest Connect with CHYKs around the world: http://www.facebook.com/groups/2229195859/ 7.4. STUDY GROUP TRAINING MATERIALS http://chinmayasaaket.org/activities/studygroupfacilitatortraining.php http://ustream.tv/recorded/12643799

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7.5. SUPPLEMENTAL FILES Supplement materials distributed with this Manual consist of all the sample forms or documents in the Appendix. 7.6. FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS: 1. What texts should we use in study groups?

Please follow the CHYK Study Syllabus described in Section 4.5 of this manual. 2. How can we attract new people to join CHYK activities?

Start with a social activity to get to know the students better and be able to interact with them on a personal basis. Also, there is a CHYK introduction video on YouTube. Showing this to new students may be helpful: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hYcMYAmqEnk

3. What book should we use with new students?

The book, Game of Life, can be used with new students as an introductory text. The prescribed CHYK Syllabus can follow thereafter.

4. What if someone joins a Study Group after we have already started a text? How can we

get them involved in the discussion? When possible, a brief recap can be given in class. Otherwise, if much of a text has been completed already, a fellow CHYK can meet after class with the new student to give a recap. New students should be asked to read the covered material at home so they can better participate in class.

5. How do we serve and work with CORD USA?

Service projects should be organized under the CORD USA banner. It is beneficial to serve under CORD USA because service hours may be matched by company dollars through CORD. Examples of service projects include working in foster homes and feeding the homeless. Contact the Steering Committee for details.

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APPENDIX

Head of ChinmayaMission

Worldwide

ChinmayaMission West

CHYK West National

Director & Deputy Director

CHYK West Steering

Committee

CHYK West Core Committee

CHYK WEST ORGANIZATIONAL CHART

41

CHYK West (Name)

Chinmaya Mission Center Name and full mailing address Website, email, phone

ACCIDENT WAIVER AND RELEASE OF LIABILITY FORM Name of the Activity or Event: _____________________________________ Venue of the Activity or Event: _____________________________________ Date of Activity or Event: ___________________ I HEREBY ASSUME ALL OF THE RISKS OF PARTICIPATING AND/OR VOLUNTEERING IN THIS ACTIVITY OR EVENT, including by way of example and not limitation, any risks that may arise from negligence or carelessness on the part of the persons or entities being released, from dangerous or defective equipment or property owned, maintained, or controlled by them, or because of their possible liability without fault. I certify that I am physically fit, and have not been advised to not participate by a qualified medical professional. I certify that there are no health-related reasons or problems which preclude my participation in this activity or event. I acknowledge that this Accident Waiver and Release of Liability Form will be used by the event holders, sponsors, and organizers of the activity or event in which I may participate, and that it will govern my actions and responsibilities at said activity or event. In consideration of my registration permitting me to participate in this event, I hereby take action for myself, my executors, administrators, heirs, next of kin, successors, and assigns as follows: (A) I WAIVE, RELEASE, AND DISCHARGE from any and all liability, including but not limited

to, liability arising from the negligence or fault of the entities or persons released, for my death, disability, personal injury, property damage, property theft, or actions of any kind which may hereafter occur to me including my traveling to and from this event, THE FOLLOWING ENTITIES OR PERSONS: Chinmaya Mission {center name), Chinmaya Mission West and CORD USA {if applicable} and/or their directors, officers, affiliates, employees, volunteers, representatives, and agents, the activity or event holders, activity or event sponsors, activity or event volunteers;

(B) I INDEMNIFY, HOLD HARMLESS, AND PROMISE NOT TO SUE the entities or persons

mentioned in paragraph (A) from any and all liabilities or claims made as a result of participation in this activity or event, whether caused by the negligence of release or otherwise.

I acknowledge that Chinmaya Mission {center name}, Chinmaya Mission West and CORD USA {if applicable} and their directors, officers, volunteers, affiliates, representatives, and agents are NOT responsible for the errors, omissions, acts, or failures to act of any party or entity conducting a

42

specific event or activity on behalf of Chinmaya Mission {center name}, Chinmaya Mission West and CORD USA {if applicable}. I acknowledge that this activity or event may involve a test of a person’s physical and mental limits and may carry with it the potential for death, serious injury, and property loss. The risks may include, but are not limited to, those caused by terrain, facilities, temperature, weather, condition of participants, equipment, vehicular traffic, actions of other people including, but not limited to, participants, volunteers, spectators, coaches, event officials, and event monitors, and/or producers of the event, and lack of hydration. These risks are not only inherent to participants, but are also present for volunteers. I understand that at this event or related activities, I may be photographed. I agree to allow my photo, video, or film likeness to be used for any legitimate purpose by the event holders, producers, sponsors, organizers, and assigns. The accident waiver and release of liability shall be construed broadly to provide a release and waiver to the maximum extent permissible under applicable law. I CERTIFY THAT I HAVE READ THIS DOCUMENT, AND I FULLY UNDERSTAND ITS CONTENT. I AM AWARE THAT THIS IS A RELEASE OF LIABILITY AND A CONTRACT AND I SIGN IT OF MY OWN FREE WILL. ________________________________ _______ Print Participant’s Name Age _______________________________ __________ Signature (if under 18 years old, Parent Date or guardian must also sign) PARENT / GUARDIAN WAIVER FOR MINORS (Under 18 years old) The undersigned parent and natural guardian does hereby represent that he/she is, in fact, acting in such capacity, has consented to his/her child or ward’s participation in the activity or event, and has agreed individually and on behalf of the child or ward, to the terms of the accident waiver and release of liability set forth above. The undersigned parent or guardian further agrees to save and hold harmless and indemnify each and all of the parties referred to above from all liability, loss, cost, claim, or damage whatsoever which may be imposed upon said parties because of any defect in or lack of such capacity to so act and release said parties on behalf of the minor and the parents or legal guardian. ________________________________ _______ Print Participant’s Name Age _______________________________ __________ Signature of Parent or Guardian Date

>>><<<<

A CHYK WEST SPIRITUAL RETREAT FORYOUNG PROFESSIONALSCOLLEGE STUDENTSCHINMAYA BALA VIHAR HIGH SCHOOL SENIORS

WHERECHINMAYA PRABHAHOUSTON, TX

INFORMATION AND REGISTRATION ATWWW.CHYKHOUSTON.COM

THE GAME OF

LIFE2011

NOV25 TH 26 TH

27TH

LED BYACHARYA VIVEKJI

A CHYK WEST RETREAT ORGANIZED BY CHYK HOUSTON

MAKE LIFE A SPORT!

CHYKWESTANNUALREPORTFORM

PleasepresentthefollowinginformationregardingyourCHYKgroup:

1. Whendidyourcity’sCHYKgroupbeginandwithhowmanymembers?

2. HowmanymembersdoestheCHYKgrouphavepresently?

3. HowmanyCHYKstudygroupsarethereinyourcity?AretheyledbyAcharyas?

4. Whatistheaverageattendanceatthestudygroup?

5. Howmanyout‐of‐stateCHYKsattendthestudygroup?

6. WhataretheuniversitiesintheCHYKgroup’svicinity?

7. DoyouhaveaUniversitystudygroupinyourcity?

8. ListallactivitiesundertakenbyCHYKgroupfrominceptionthroughpresent.

9. Apartfromstudygroup,whatactivitieshavetheCHYKgroupundertaken?(a) withintheMissione.g.teaching,frontdesk,websitemaintenance(b) outsidetheMissione.g.socialserviceprojects(c) participationinCORDactivities&fundraisers(d) CHYKWestnationalserviceprojects

10. HastheCHYKGroupparticipatedinanyfundraisersintheMission?Whatamountwasraised?

11. WhatarethestrengthsoftheCHYKgroup?

12. WhatareareasforimprovementthatwillfacilitatethedevelopmentoftheCHYKgroup?

13. WhataremainchallengesfacedbytheCHYKgroup?

14. ListtheCHYKgroup’sgoalsforthenextyear

15. DescribeplansforincreasingCHYKgroupmembership–whathasbeendone,successstories,futureplans.

Pleaseemailyourreporttochykwest@chinmayamission.orgbyJanuary15.