Buddha’s Light Youth Group was founded at Hsi Lai Temple in 1996, becoming the first International Buddha’s Light Young Adult Division (YAD). It is now known as “BLIA YAD Los Angeles Subdivision” and continues to actively contribute to society, while propagating Humanistic Buddhism through the annual events they organize and participate in. It provides young adults the opportunities to learn and practice teamwork, as well as basic Buddhist teachings and etiquette.

In recent years, Hsi Lai Temple has seen an influx of international students from China and Taiwan seeking to learn more about Buddhism and to create a home away from home. Under the guidance and care of the Venerables, a new Los Angeles subdivision has developed, forming “BLIA YAD Los Angeles Division 2”. With the two subdivisions working together, they are able to spread Humanistic Buddhism to an even wider audience.

The Los Angeles subdivisions look forward to expanding their influence and further propagating the Dharma to help more youths in learning Buddhism. However, their goals do not stop at the local communities. BLIA YAD Los Angeles also hopes to help Humanistic Buddhism continue its spread in the Western World by developing stronger North American YADs, and help train more western White Elephant staff.