Volunteer FAQs
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CAAM is rooted in the Ayurvedic and seva, selfless service. Volunteering here is not transactional but an offering towards building a more conscious, healing-oriented community for Ayurveda in California. It is about working together, learning together, and serving the larger field.
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Volunteers support a wide range of activities such as event organization, communications, membership outreach, administrative coordination, technical support, and creative work. The nature of work depends on your skills, interest, and the needs of the moment.
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We expect commitment, reliability, and a spirit of collaboration. Volunteers should complete tasks they accept, communicate promptly, and treat all interactions with professionalism. We understand that unknowns might come up, please communicate with your committee lead accordingly.
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No. Volunteering is about service, not self-promotion. Speakers for the annual conference and “Chai with CAAM” are selected by invitation after committee review. Volunteers are the support system behind these events, not presenters.
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No. While many volunteers are practitioners or students, we welcome anyone who feels connected to Ayurveda and community work. What matters most is your sincerity, dependability, and willingness to learn.
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There is no fixed schedule. Volunteering is need-based. Some weeks may be quiet, while activity increases around conferences, online programs, or special projects. Flexibility and readiness to contribute when needed are appreciated.
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Those who enjoy teamwork, communicate clearly, follow through on commitments, and care deeply about Ayurveda’s presence in public life. Volunteers who bring warmth, initiative, and humility usually thrive here.
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Yes. Once you are accepted, you will receive an extensive orientation about CAAM’s mission, working style, and your specific area of contribution. You will also meet your committee members and begin with clear guidance.
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Most work happens in teams. You will be connected with other volunteers and your committee chair. Certain tasks can be done independently if that suits your working style, but you are never unsupported.
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You will report to your committee chair or project lead. This ensures your work aligns with CAAM’s goals and that you have someone to turn to for questions or feedback.
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Not necessarily. Many roles can be performed remotely, especially those related to communications, research, or online events. Some in-person support may be needed for local events in California, but this is always optional.
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Most committees meet once a month online. During busy periods, short coordination calls may be added. Meeting schedules are shared well in advance.
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Only if you choose to. In-person roles, such as registration or hospitality during conferences, are optional and depend on your availability.
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As a non-profit, CAAM does not pay volunteers. In some cases, pre-approved expenses related to event logistics or supplies may be reimbursed. Volunteers also enjoy certain perks such as discounted conference tickets.
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Yes. All volunteers are required to complete a volunteer form before beginning their role. Depending on the nature of your work, you may also be asked to sign a short confidentiality and media consent form.
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Not without prior approval. Volunteers are welcome to share their experiences and invite others to events, but formal representation of CAAM in media, classes, or talks must be approved by your committee chair or the board.
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Only for approved CAAM-related materials. If you are creating promotional or design content, official logo files and guidelines will be provided.
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You gain meaningful exposure to the Ayurveda community in California, practical experience in organizing and communication, and connections with practitioners and educators. Most importantly, you become part of a living community built on service. You will also stretch your boundaries and know your own strengths about yourself you have never known about. You will also have opportunities to gain many skills from your peers.
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Indirectly, yes. It offers valuable insight, networks, and credibility through contribution. However, volunteering is not a marketing platform and should not be approached as one.
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Yes. Volunteering brings you into direct contact with experienced practitioners, organizers, and educators. Learning happens naturally through collaboration and observation.
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Yes. Many of our current committee members and board leaders began as volunteers. Consistency, initiative, and sincerity often open pathways to deeper involvement.
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That is completely fine. Even a few hours during event weeks can be valuable. Let us know your availability so we can match you to suitable tasks
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We understand that personal and professional situations change. Simply inform your committee chair in advance so that your work can be reassigned smoothly.
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All volunteers are expected to uphold CAAM’s values of respect, inclusivity, transparency, and integrity. This includes maintaining confidentiality, avoiding gossip, being punctual, and supporting others’ efforts.
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Applications are reviewed based on your interests, skills, and our current needs. If there is a suitable match, we will contact you for a short conversation before confirming in a particular committee.
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Usually within two to three weeks. During busy event seasons, it may take a little longer.
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Simply fill out the Volunteer Interest Form on our website. Once we receive it, our team will connect with you to explore the best fit for your skills and availability.