The Leadership Council is a group of experienced, long-time members of the Shamanic Community of Austin who volunteer their time and energy to help guide and support the community. The council has a leading and supportive function, rather than being a governing body. It primary function is to manage the organizational functions needed to maintain a healthy and thriving spiritual community.
As the primary guiding group, the council is responsible for creating the community mission and vision, and guidance in pursuit of them. To do so, they regularly seek suggestions from members of the community as a whole. All of the members of the council are open to feedback and suggestions for improvement.
The central purpose of the council is to create a safe container and to hold sacred space for community activities, as well as to support the personal and spiritual growth of community members.
The list of current council members can be found on the Leadership Council page.
What does the Leadership Council do?
In addition to regular attendance to the circles, classes, and events, members of the council meet at least once a month to review topics of interest and importance to the community, as well as to plan for future events and ways to better manage growth.
In journey circles, leaders are generally responsible for setting the circle and altar, anchoring the four corners (directions), and drumming for journeys. Community members interested learning how to perform these functions work with individual leaders as “apprentices.”
From time to time, members may attend specialized training, such as the recent SAFE program regarding sexual abuse and harassment in businesses and organizations.
How can I join the Leaders Council?
The size of the council is kept intentionally small to maximize group dynamics. The balance between masculine and feminine energies is also a key consideration.
As an leader, your attendance at the monthly meetings is important, though not mandatory. Regular attendance to community circles is also important. In general, we ask for at least a one year commitment to serving regularly as a council member.
When there are openings, we look to see who might be interested in serving on the council, especially how long they have been a part of the community (there is no set standard), and their attendance and support of the community, circles, and events. If you do attend regularly and want to be considered, please talk to any of the council members to express your interest!
How can I help if I am not a part of the Leadership Council?
As you regularly attend circles, classes, and events, you may want to become more involved in the development of the community as an organization. You are welcome to do so! There are many ways to be of service, in addition to serving on the council.
You are welcomed to assist by setting the physical and energetic container: putting out blankets, welcoming newcomers, monitoring the sign-in process, cleaning up, and other ways. And do let us know if you have a suggestion, as well.
The Leadership Council exists solely to support the mission and vision of the community, to provide safety and security, and to offer learning experiences for members of the Shamanic Community of Austin. We greatly appreciate your interest, participation, and support.