'Shan You' () is derived from the Buddhist concept of 'Kalyana-mitta' (Pali language), which literally translated means 'Noble Friend' or 'Good Friend' (). A Noble Friend is one who is virtuous, learned and wise.

The Buddha himself is the Good Friend par excellence: "...it is owing to my being a good friend to them that living beings subject to birth are freed from birth." (Samyutta Nikaya III, 18).

With the guiding Buddhist principles of Compassion, Morality, Concentration and Wisdom, the Centre strives to be a 'Shan You' to all.

The Centre's logo is a golden Buddhist hand gesture of fearlessness. It also represents a helping hand of volunteerism. This is placed in the heart of a full-bloom lotus that is outlined in blue. The lotus signifies purity and non-defilement amidst the troubles of this troubled world. At the base of the logo is its name, Shan You.