Dharma Drum Mountain Buddhist Association (DDMBA) is a U.S. based non-profit organization committed to serving humanity by working to relieve human suffering – physical, emotional and spiritual. Its founder and spiritual leader is the renowned teacher of Chan Buddhism, Master Sheng Yen. In 1994, Master Sheng Yen established Dharma Drum Mountain Buddhist Association to further the teaching of Buddhism in the West and for international programs. Since then, nearly 31 DDMBA chapters have been started in the USA. DDMBA has grown over the years and is a leader in making Buddhist meditation and practice more accessible in the West. Since 2000, Master Sheng Yen has led DDMBA to an expanded role in interfaith dialogue, peacebuilding, protecting the environment, and developing youth leadership.