Frank Ostaseski

Metta Institute® was established to provide education on spirituality in dying. Inspired by the Buddhist tradition we encourage the integration of the spiritual dimensions of living, dying and transformation, through professional training, educational programs and materials.

Our Institute was formed in 2004 as an outgrowth of the Zen Hospice Project (ZHP), nationally recognized as a pioneering model in the movement to improve end-of life care. Our Director, Frank Ostaseski, helped form ZHP in 1987, and guided the program for 17 years.

METTA is an ancient Pali (Buddhist) term meaning loving-kindness, friendliness, benevolence and non-violence. It is a strong wish for the welfare and happiness of others. We chose it as our name because we believe it expresses the essential human quality that is most beneficial in the lives of those who are dying and their caregivers.

–> [Frank, please update] Programming and leadership

Currently, the Metta Institute’s primary program is the End-of-Life Practitioner Program. The goal of the innovative training is to establish a national network of educators, advocates and guides for those facing life-threatening illness and the individuals and systems that serve them.

Our faculty members are leading voices in re-visioning dying in America. We are advocates for reclaiming the soul in caregiving and restoring a life affirming and transformative relationship to dying.

Metta Institute will gradually produce materials and programs offering an in-depth exploration of living and dying in America. We now provide information on workshops, presentations and retreats lead by Frank Ostaseski and educational programs featuring our core faculty. This website’s Pressroom provides our published articles, current releases and expert resources for media. Our Resources section offers an audio series, recommended reading and media, up to date links to hospice resources, Buddhist practice, grief and loss support and End-of-Life related issues.

Metta Institute is a federally approved 501c3 charitable non-profit corporation guided by a volunteer Board of Directors. Contributions to Metta Institute are fully tax deductible in accordance with IRS regulations.

Policies

Anti-discrimination Policy

It is the policy of the Metta Institute® to prohibit unlawful discrimination based on race, color, creed, gender, religion, marital status, registered domestic partner status, sexual orientation, age, national origin or ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition including genetic characteristics, or any other consideration made unlawful by federal, state, or local laws. Metta Institute also prohibits unlawful discrimination against a person who is perceived to have any of those characteristics, or is associated with a person who has or is perceived as having any of those characteristics. Metta Institute adheres to this policy when making decisions regarding employment or program participation.

Equal Access Statement

Persons with disabilities or who are in need of additional accommodations in order to attend or participate in Metta Institute’s Programs should contact our office at 415-331-9600. All requests for accommodations should be made at least 1 month in advance of any program start date. In the case of language translators, more time may be required to locate appropriate providers.