Waterloo Riverview Dharma Centre
The Waterloo Riverview Dharma Centre (WRDC) is a Canadian nonprofit organization (registration number 857653539RR0001) dedicated to fostering meditative practices rooted in Buddhist traditions. Established in 1999 as a non-sectarian centre, it provides a communal space for mindfulness training, spiritual inquiry, and retreats[1][3].

History and Mission

Founded by guiding teacher Susan Child, WRDC emphasizes accessibility to Buddhist teachings across Theravadan and Tibetan traditions[1]. Child, who began her meditation practice in the 1970s and trained under teachers such as Ken McLeod and Jon Kabat-Zinn, developed the centre to offer structured programs including mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) and Buddhist psychology courses[1][3].

Programs and Offerings

WRDC hosts weekly meditation groups, beginner mindfulness courses, and multi-day retreats, often featuring visiting Dharma teachers such as Ajahn Kusalo, Norman Feldman, and Shinzen Young[1][3]. Specialized workshops, including mindfulness instruction for children and adolescents led by trained practitioners like Anna Marie and Laura, are regularly organized[1][5]. Annual events include the Buddhist Film Festival, which screens documentaries on themes like environmental resilience and cultural preservation[5].

Leadership and Training

The centre’s instructors undergo rigorous training in both traditional Buddhist practices and contemporary therapeutic methods. Laura, a key instructor, received guidance under Thich Nhat Hanh and Soryu Forall, while Anna Marie specializes in youth-oriented mindfulness programs[1]. WRDC’s curriculum integrates teachings from multiple Buddhist lineages, reflecting its non-sectarian ethos[3].

Impact and Community

As a registered charity, WRDC serves as a regional hub for spiritual education, offering resources such as a meditation library and Sunday sittings. Its programs emphasize practical applications of mindfulness, bridging ancient practices with modern psychological insights[1][3].