ABSTRACT
In the Buddhist religion, the concept of dana or “selfless giving” is the first virtue among the Six Paramitas or Perfections. All Dana volunteers are given six hours of training over nearly a three-month period. They are taught how to listen, how to provide a caring presence reflecting the Buddhist virtues, and how to serve those in need. Project Dana, a nonsectarian caregivers’ program, was first conceived in 1989 to address the needs of the frail and homebound through assistance by volunteers. The purpose of the project is simply to offer spiritual, emotional, and physical care to those who are homebound and frail. Volunteers of all ages and from all walks of life are drawn from within the Buddhist community, primarily from the Moiliili Hongwanji Mission. Dana clients clearly are pleased with the assistance they are receiving. Just as pleased are the volunteers who are giving of themselves.
