Action Wake Up

Action Wake Up (AWU) is a new 15-month residential training program in Buddhist spiritual practice, applied ethics, community living, mindful service, and leadership development. Deer Park Monastery will welcome the first Action Wake Up cohort of young people (aged 18-35) to live and train in Escondido, California in October 2025.

Historical Overview: Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh and Sister Chan Khong forged a vision of engaged youth working side-by-side with communities in 1960s Vietnam. Based on Buddhist principles of non-violence and compassionate action, this vision became a reality with the School of Youth for Social Service. It continues today through Wake Up, a worldwide movement of young people who seek to build healthy and compassionate societies.

Rains Retreat 2024-25

Rains Retreat 2025–26 (TBA March 21, 2025)