…What if we can build something different…?

Our consumerist, individualist society has divided us into siloed homes where many of us grow increasingly isolated and addicted to screens.  Why does creating a meaningful sense of community feel so difficult?  In part we believe because our society has been built this way.  But imagine …

When you come home from work, you park in the lot and plug in your car.  Two neighbors are working in the adjacent garden and you stop to chat about plans for the tomatoes.  Three kids you know well are playing hopscotch on the pavement and they invite you to have a go.  “Oh, just this once,” you say.  Entering through the common room, you are greeted by two elderly neighbors playing cribbage.  A family of three is in the kitchen getting started on dinner.  A man calls out asking if you are planning to join the group for dinner tonight and you say yes, and you’re bringing a friend.  You step into your apartment to relax in quiet for an hour before your friend arrives.

To be surrounded by friendly and familiar faces every day.  To have the opportunity to join in conversations and games and meals with people you care about without extensive planning and without leaving home.  To regularly interact with other people’s children but be able to excuse yourself when some privacy is needed.  To be invested in a community in which we have equal responsibility and equal ownership.  To build a model for a sustainable society.  This is the dream that animates us.