CCARE at Stanford University

Who did your project serve and what suffering did it address?
My Capstone Project was designed to serve CCARE, universities, researchers, hospitals, companies, schools and individuals who are looking to practice the fundamentals of compassion. The project addressed physical and emotional health, interpersonal relationships, depression, anxiety and stress.

How did this project address that suffering?
My project allowed for more people (in companies, hospitals and universities) to have access to CCARE information, knowledge, courses, training and instructors. In a country where English is a challenge and where less than 5% of the population is fluent in English, acting as a CCARE satellite unit could allow thousands of people to take the initial steps towards compassion and self-compassion to alleviate suffering.

Who was your audience and how many people participated? 
I conducted research and created a demo project to understand how people who don't practice compassion would be impacted by CCARE knowledge and practices. A total of 5 people worked on the project's execution and 1,300 people from different areas were interviewed and participated in a training based on compassion.

How was the project delivered (the format)? 
My project consisted of workshops, a website, social media, email marketing, videos and surveys.

What was the reported impact on or feedback from participants? On yourself? 
78% of project participants reported that being more compassionate and improved their ability to concentrate, 85% reported feeling less stressed and anxious, 78% reported increased self-confidence, 86% reported improved relationships with family and work, and 84% reported increased ability to focus on what really matters to them.

How has the ACT Program helped you become an Ambassador of Compassion? 
Studying at CCARE at Stanford means not only learning about compassion and meditation — it also means having access to incredible instructors, people and techniques that allowed me to break free from my suffering and want to do the same for others.

What advice would you give to someone who's considering participating in the ACT Program? 
CCARE is the best place to learn about compassion, with meditation and neuroscience supporting the process. What you will learn at CCARE will allow you to use self-compassion to create the future you want and let go of the past that bothers you. You can specialize in listening and following your heart.