PRESCOTT, Ariz.—Nestled among the mountains and pine forests of northern Arizona, Prescott is known for its Old West charm, scenic landscapes and popularity among retirees. Together with Prescott Valley, Chino Valley and Dewey-Humboldt, the area forms the Quad Cities, home to members of Prescott Victory District in Northern Arizona Chapter.
While the region offers a relaxed, small-town atmosphere, its older population presents a particular challenge to SGI members determined to foster the next generation: finding and connecting with young people.
Seeking new ways to connect with youth, Prescott Victory District unit leader Chris Tinney and member care advisor Mark Justin began discussing ideas for outreach. Although some members thought few young people lived in the area, Justin remained convinced otherwise. He and his wife regularly met young people while shopping and struck up conversations about Buddhism.
Tinney and Justin began holding online planning sessions to explore ways to reach the younger generation. Despite limited participation, they pressed on and eventually realized they needed a young person’s perspective. They invited Zoie Young, now Southwest Zone young women’s leader, to join their efforts.
For Young, who lived 90 minutes away in Phoenix, the determination of the men’s and women’s division members was inspiring. Although participation in the planning sessions was sometimes sparse, they refused to give up. “We just kept pushing, and we just kept going,” she recalled. She felt united with the members’ determination to engage the young people in the area. “I was really honored that they wanted me there,” she said.
Together, they came up with the idea of an outdoor gathering where young people could make friends, enjoy activities and encounter Buddhism in a chill, welcoming atmosphere. Inspired by the popular California music festival Coachella, they named the event “Buddhachilla.”
The gathering was scheduled for Aug. 29 at Watson Lake Park, known for its striking granite formations and scenic hiking trails.
Organizing “Buddhachilla” required perseverance. Progress was slow, and rainy weather raised concerns about postponement. Young encouraged everyone to press forward. “I think we should do it,” she recalled telling the organizers. The members continued chanting Nam-myoho-renge-kyo, and support gradually grew.
The effort was soon a community-wide undertaking. Women’s division members helped coordinate preparations, while others contributed food, games and activities for families. Members also spread the word by posting flyers and personally inviting friends and neighbors.
Sherman Hom, Northern Arizona Chapter men’s leader, met a young man the night before the event. Their conversation about his motorcycle turned to Buddhism, prompting Hom to invite him to “Buddhachilla.” The young man attended the following day.
After a brief thunderstorm, the skies cleared on Aug. 29 as 50 people—27 members and 23 guests—gathered at Watson Lake. Among the guests were 10 youth, including six primary schoolchildren. Participants enjoyed food, games, rock painting and relaxed conversations.
Young brought a friend who had attended a district meeting. During the gathering, her friend, who was struggling with relationship issues, received heartfelt encouragement from a woman. “Dude, that girl gave me such great advice,” her friend later said.
Another memorable moment came when two young girls asked to accompany Young and her friend on a walk to the lake. They took photographs together and developed a friendship that continued after the event.
For Young, these spontaneous connections captured the spirit of “Buddhachilla.” She said the gathering demonstrated what it means to be part of the Soka Gakkai—a community filled with joy, warmth and a shared desire for world peace. “I think they just felt lots of love,” she said of the attendees.
The gathering strengthened friendships among members and guests, several of whom expressed interest in attending future SGI activities. Encouraged by the response, members began planning a larger “Buddhachilla” for next year. But they aren’t waiting until then to build on their momentum. With plans for monthly outreach gatherings and other activities to connect with young people, they are determined to keep creating opportunities for friendship and dialogue—and sharing Buddhism with one person after another.
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