In a nutshell, what is this and why do we need it?

Like a sanctuary for activism, this service is designed to fortify organizations of all sizes (staff/board members/volunteers) doing the inherently challenging work of changing the world. It is a collective space for diverse, like-minded changemakers to connect, practice and recharge with each other for the highest outcome.

Live, virtual, 30 minute sessions that interweave mindfulness concepts with guided meditation run throughout the workday every Monday. Individuals have the option to participate or not, and plenty of flexibility when they do. It’s global, quick, cost-effective and superpowerful.

Neuroscience shows that mindfulness practice offers a smorgasbord of human benefits. This is a Stanford Social Innovation Review report on the relationship between mindfulness and conscious social change. And here is why Harvard Business Review believes collective mindfulness practice is a gamechanger.

What happens during a session?

Each session follows a consistent structure with different content each week:

• Opens with an inspirational theme and mindfulness concept. (approximately 5 minutes)

• Complementary guided meditation follows. (approx 15-20 minutes)

• Closes with prompted contemplation space for private and public shared reflection.

  (approx 5-10 minutes)

Sessions are facilitated by Stacey Mandel, a seasoned and professional certified mindfulness teacher (CMT-P) with the International Mindfulness Teachers Association.

When are the exact session times?

9-9:30am ET

9:30-10am ET

11-11:30am ET

12:30-1pm ET

2-2:30pm ET

3:30-4pm ET

4:00-4:30 ET

*Times may be adjusted based on feedback.

How do communications and logistics work?

1. Upon joining, your designated contact person will receive a digital flyer designed to introduce The BIG Collective to your organization.

2. Each Wednesday by noon, your contact person will receive one reminder via email to share regarding the upcoming Monday session. It will contain all the needed details, plus a secure Zoom link.

Note: Participants can register anytime up to one hour before each session. No cancellation necessary.

What is the cost?

$2,222 per year

Organizations can join at any time; membership lasts for 40 weeks after the start date. No sessions run on federal holidays.

If the fee is a hardship or your organization would like to gift membership to another organization, please reach out. We seek to include all social changemaking organizations regardless of finances, and are happy to make it work!

Are there any incentives for referring other organizations?

Yes! An organization that refers another paying organization will receive one free additional month of membership.

How is this different from “wellness” and other well-being programs?

The BIG Collective will likely create benefits like stress reduction, relaxation, balance, focus, productivity— which fall under the “wellness and well-being” umbrellas. However, this service was envisioned to amplify the power of mindfulness for greater civic good through regular “community” practice. The structure overcomes most common barriers: location and timing, lack of authentic integration and different interest levels.

What is the level of mindfulness or meditation experience needed?

Anyone from total beginner to expert is welcome and should feel comfortable. A few tips and reminders are always offered.

Newcomers should do well with the bite size concepts, short lengths of guided meditation and the presence of a community. Seasoned practitioners will likely appreciate “beginner’s mind”, mission-centered camaraderie and the chance to integrate practice into their workday. The closing time for shared reflection provides space for all perspectives and experiences, including challenges.

Are there any special mental health considerations to be aware of?

Yes. Meditation can be beneficial for people who suffer from depression, but it’s probably NOT a good idea for someone to learn to meditate at times they are profoundly depressed. It’s best if they wait until their depression is in remission and they’re feeling more emotionally balanced. People who have serious mental illness that involve delusions should not participate either.

What about Zoom cameras?

All are strongly encouraged to keep cameras on for the opening and closing, but are welcome to turn them off for the guided meditation.

Will the sessions be recorded?

Unfortunately, no. This is a live offering only due to a variety of factors involved with recording and distributing recordings.

Can my organization track participation and collect feedback?

Yes. Zoom registration data can be shared at any time, though names of participants will be kept confidential. We can also provide a survey to collect feedback as often as desired.