About Chicago YAD
2023 YAD Leadership Camp
2025 Buddha's Birthday YAD Booth
Why Join BLIA Young Adult Division Chicago?
Since Fo Guang Shan Chicago was established in 2007, young people have always been an essential part of the temple—learning the Dharma, serving the community, and growing together.
As more youth gathered and became actively involved, we envisioned a space created by youth, for youth—a place where young adults could practice Buddhism, build genuine friendships, serve others, and grow together in both life and spirituality.
From this shared aspiration, BLIA Young Adult Division Chicago (BLIA YAD Chicago) was born—becoming an important bridge connecting youth with the Dharma and Humanistic Buddhism.
2023 BLIA YAD Chicago Certification
When Was BLIA YAD Chicago Established?
- October 21, 2020: BLIA YAD Chicago submitted its formal letter of intent to establish the youth division.
- July 2023: The division was officially recognized and certified by the Buddha’s Light International Association World Headquarters (Kaohsiung, Taiwan).
Celine Wang was appointed as the founding president, marking a new chapter for youth development in Chicago Fo Guang Shan.
Who Can Join?
Even before the youth division was officially established, young adults were already everywhere in the temple—
in the kitchen, in the shrine, supporting Dharma services, and serving behind the scenes.
Today, anyone who is interested in Buddhism, Humanistic Buddhism, volunteer service, leadership development, or connecting with other young adults is warmly welcome to join us.
If you are curious, open-minded, and looking for a meaningful community—
there is a place for you here.
2023 Secret Budda Ginger bread Temple
2025 Chillin_with Chicago
2025 Book Discussion
What Do We Do?
During the academic year, BLIA YAD Chicago regularly hosts two main types of monthly activities：
– Dharma Study & Discussion
We read and discuss works by Venerable Master Hsing Yun, exploring themes from books such as 《Buddhism and the Mind》 and 《The Diamond Sutra》.
These sessions connect Buddhist wisdom with real-life questions—about school, work, relationships, and personal growth.
– Chillin’ with Chicago
A relaxed and creative gathering that blends games, crafts, sharing, and meaningful conversations—allowing Humanistic Buddhism to naturally flow into everyday life.
In addition, we host workshops and trainings on:
- Buddhist etiquette and practice
- Buddhist knowledge
- Leadership and service skills
Helping young adults grow both on the path of practice and in daily life.
Where Are We Active?
We call Fo Guang Shan Chicago our home, while stepping confidently into the wider community and world.
Whether serving within the temple or participating in community events outside the monastery, BLIA YAD Chicago brings the Dharma into real-life settings, making compassion and wisdom visible through action.
2025 Volunteering at Feed My Starving Children
2024 BLIA YAD Chicago at IBLYAEC
2025 World Peace Day Presentation
How Do We Serve Society and Connect Globally?
– Community Service
BLIA YAD Chicago actively participates in local service, including volunteering at Food banks , Feed My Starving Children.
Serving society through action is a core part of our practice.
Since 2024, we have also represented Fo Guang Shan Chicago and BLIA Chicago Chapter at the Naperville World Peace Day Interfaith Prayer Event, collaborating with youth from different faiths and cultures through presentations, singing, and dance—raising a collective voice for peace.
– International Exchange
Since 2022, our members have participated in International BLIA Young Adult Conferences, both online and in person, connecting with youth from:
Taiwan , Germany , Malaysia…and beyond.
We also actively engage with BLIA chapters and youth groups across North America, building leadership experience, collaboration, and lasting friendships.
What’s Next | Our Spirit & the Road Ahead
Venerable Master Hsing Yun once said:“Buddhism needs young people, and young people need Buddhism.”BLIA YAD Chicago holds this message close to heart—not just as words, but as a living mission.Looking ahead, we hope to welcome even more young adults to join us, bringing youthful energy, creativity, and compassionate action to ensure that Humanistic Buddhism continues to shine brightly in Chicago.
We warmly invite you to join us and grow together.