Charter for Compassion Education Institute
Compassionate Houston, founded in 2011, was inspired by the Charter for Compassion. Its principles of treating others with respect, encouraging appreciation of cultural and religious diversity, and cultivating an informed empathy for the suffering of all human beings were our aspirational foundation.
We are delighted to share a variety of classes and courses by The Charter for Compassion Education Institute (CEI) with you.
The purpose of the CEI is to provide relevant and timely learning experiences for anyone interested in growing compassion in their lives and their community, locally and globally. With the Charter for Compassion at the heart of all we do, we invite you to join us in making compassion the driving force as we work to alleviate the suffering of our fellow beings and help create a peaceful global community.
All links to individual courses and activities are embedded in their title.
To round up the many offerings, we are sharing selected featured global events and activities by the Charter for Compassion and hope you will find a program you are excited about.
Global Read Series
The Charter’s Global Read program selects books that bring awareness to the theme of compassion. Each month, you will have the opportunity to hear directly from the book's author in a live webinar format and are given the chance to interact with the author and ask questions and/or comment on their book.
September 2025 Global Read for Kids & Co.
Date: Saturday, September 13
Time: 11:30 AM
Location: Zoom
World of Wonder
By Valerie Kaur
World of Wonder by Valarie Kaur is more than a picture book: it’s a journey of Revolutionary Love. We wonder about the earth and discover the awe that inspires care. We wonder about people suffering injustice and find that listening to stories inspires courage. We wonder about someone who inflicts cruelty—and discover the power of repair and connection. We wonder about our own emotions and the parts of ourselves we do not yet know. Wonder becomes the conduit to love; it creates the conditions for kindness, care, and courage. World of Wonder illustrates all three practices of Revolutionary Love—love for others, opponents, and ourselves.
2025 self-directed & On-Demand Courses
CEI’s signature courses are designed to explore the complexities of compassion from various perspectives. On-Demand courses offer you the flexibility to study any time and anywhere at your own speed. All signature courses are currently offered on-demand.
The science of Compassion 2.0
Compassion is more than an ideal or a virtue—it is a fundamental aspect of our biology, deeply embedded in the structure and function of the human brain. Understanding the science behind this innate capacity not only deepens our appreciation for our shared humanity but also offers practical tools to enhance education, healthcare, and societal well-being.
The essence of Compassion 2.0
Take a historical and cultural journey through the development of the thinking around and practice of compassion. By participating in the course you will simultaneously develop your own definition of compassion by determining what it is and isn’t.
introducing interspirituality
Are you seeking a deeper spiritual connection?
ProSocial Spirituality blends scientific wisdom with common spiritual wisdoms across traditions to foster self-discovery and social change, and create meaningful transformation.
planting seeds of compassion
No matter where you live or what your community looks like—whether it's a neighborhood block, a small rural village, a refugee camp, or a bustling city—the principles of starting a compassionate community initiative are the same. It all begins with building a team, anchoring your effort in trust, shared values, and a collective vision.