LHAinc.'s mission is to build an educational, cultural, and social service bridge between our rich heritages. We endeavor at all times to be flexible and responsive to our Tibetan partners. Our programs and projects are adjusted each year as the conditions and needs of the region change. Yet our commitment remains constant: to help the Tibetan people to thrive and preserve their profoundly important culture, and to offer volunteers and students the opportunity to engage in meaningful service and international social work.

In Louisiana, we also work to make the wisdom and traditions of this peaceful culture available to all those interested, actively aiding efforts to bring Tibetan scholars to regional Universities and communities in and around Louisiana. We strive to apply the core Tibetan Buddhist teaching (helping alleviate the suffering of others) by promoting these educational opportunities, as well as engageing in local community based social service projects.

FOR PROGRAMES IN LOUISIANA

Weekly Schedule :

• Monday – Friday 7-8 AM : Morning Meditation
• Every other Monday from 7-9 PM – New Orleans:
  FOOD COOP Meeting
• Tuesday 7-8 PM Group Meditation Practice (we now have Group:Meditation )
• Wednesday 7:30-9 PM : Wisdom Dharma Study Group
• Sunday 5-7 PM : YOGA Class

CYPRESS BAYOU WEEKEND (LHA annual Reunion)

• March 19 – 22, 2009

For Upcoming Special Events please check lhainfo.blogspot.com

MAIN PROGRAMS/PROJECTS IN INDIA SUPPORTED BY LHA

1. SPONSORSHIP PROGRAMS:
Housing, food, healthcare and educational needs are provided for individuals/families with limited resources through LHA's sponsorship program. Individuals may choose to sponsor a child, family, monk, or nun. To further meet the needs of the community, LHA initiated the Tibetan Elder Assistance Program (TEAP) in 2003 to sponsor indigent seniors in the area.

2. ESL (ENGLISH AS SECOND LANGUAGE):
ESL (ENGLISH AS SECOND LANGUAGE): The Tibetan refugees arrive in India with only their Tibetan language skills. Without English skills it is extremely difficult to find employment and begin a new life. LHA supports programs that offer free english language training. Our support comes in the form of donated books, financial support and volunteer ESL coordination.

2. Computer School:
LHA has found that those refugees with even minimal computer skills are much more likely to find employment and the opportunities are greater as their knowledge of computers grow. Through collecting used Lap Top computers and transporting them to India we are able to assist existing computer training centers and offer individuals the equipment for self learning. If you or someone you know has the ability to donate a Used Laptop please contact nguidry@tulane.edu. All donations are tax deductable.

3. Medical and Material Aid:
Educational, medical supplies, clothing and other supplies that are collected are distributed. Donated materials are brought to India by volunteers and other aid is provided, as funding allows.

4. Community Construction Projects:
Each year, LHA strives to assist in targeted building construction and/or enhancement projects, such as plumbing and electirical upgrades for schools and community centers. Funding is allocated and construction projects are completed in conjunction with our other social service partners. These projects are undertaken both in Tibet and in the Tibetan Refugee communities in India.

5.Libraries: : LHA has assisted in the establishment and support of a public Library in Dharamsala India by providing Books and financial support for rent of the bulding. Our volunteers have helped to computerise the system and train the staff. At present we are in the process of helping establishing the first public Library in the Tibetan Refugee community of Tso Pema.