Cohousing Strengthens Democracy | |
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If you’re worried about the state of our democracy, you’re not alone. I too am feeling the thinning of our civic fabric and the rising tensions between opposing groups. I also believe that cohousing offers a hopeful and practical solution. By fostering close-knit communities and encouraging active participation, cohousing addresses voter apathy, political polarization, and the general sense of disconnection many of us feel.
Cohousing communities thrive on cooperation and shared responsibilities, which naturally leads to higher levels of civic engagement.
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Research has shown that people in cohousing communities are more likely to write to their representatives, contribute to campaigns, and engage in door-to-door campaigning (Berggren, 2017). Regular community meetings provide a chance to discuss and make collective decisions, giving everyone a voice and fostering a strong sense of ownership and accountability.
Conflict resolution is another area where cohousing shines. Prioritizing open communication and mutual respect, these communities develop effective strategies for resolving disagreements. This emphasis on dialogue can inspire broader societal interactions, showing that peaceful conflict resolution is possible and beneficial.
Living in a connected, supportive environment strengthens the civic fabric of society. When you feel connected to your community, you're more likely to contribute positively to the wider world. The bonds formed in cohousing can inspire efforts to build inclusive, participatory neighborhoods and cities. Studies have shown that the organizational and persuasive activities common in cohousing serve as excellent training for political participation, leading to higher levels of civic engagement (Berggren, 2013).
Join us as we explore these themes further at our upcoming film screening of "Join or Die," a compelling documentary that delves into the importance of civic engagement and community connections for the health of American democracy. This special screening is part of the National Cohousing Conference and serves as our public launch event. "Join or Die" offers a powerful look at how individual and collective actions can impact the democratic process, providing both inspiration and practical insights for fostering civic involvement.
Join us at the National Cohousing Conference from August 2-4. With day passes starting at $150, this event is accessible to anyone interested in learning how to create and sustain vibrant, engaged communities. Connect with like-minded individuals, share experiences, and be part of the movement to strengthen democracy through cohousing. We look forward to seeing you there!
In Community,
Trish Becker-Hafnor
CohoUS Executive Director
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Citations:
- Berggren, Heidi M. “Cohousing as Civic Society: Cohousing Involvement and Political Participation in the United States.” Social science quarterly 98.1 (2017): 57-72.
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Heidi, M. Berggren. “Cohousing as Civic Society: Cohousing Involvement and Political Participation in Massachusetts.” The New England journal of political science 7.1 (2013): 2.
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There's still time to join us in Denver!
We'll be spending the weekend diving deep into the topics most relevant to the cohousing communities, learning new skills and insight from cohousing experts, and connected with communitarians from around the country.
Single day passes starting at $150 are also available!
Learn more about the conference here and register below.
CohoUS members receive an additional $100 discount! To take advantage of this discount, you must be logged in and your account must be registered as a member. Reach out to us at cohousingassociationofus@gmail.com if you have questions!
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Already registered? Don't forget to check out our list of pre-conference intensives!
Please note: Conference registration is not required to join this pre-conference programming. If you're in the area but unable to join us for the full weekend, you're still welcome to take advantage of the opportunity to learn from our incredible intensive leaders.
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National Cohousing Conference Coming Right Up
The anticipation has been building, and we’re now just a month away from Coho US’s 2024 National Cohousing Conference, “Rooted in Belonging.” This year’s conference takes place in Denver, CO, at the foot of the Rocky Mountains. The main conference is the weekend of Aug. 2–4, with pre-conference intensives and tours starting Thursday, Aug. 1. It’s not too late to register!
This year’s version of the biennial conference offers several sessions focused specifically on seniors in cohousing.
Read the full article for a list of workshops that will be facilitated by members of the Coho US Seniors in Cohousing Committee, with guest panelists from senior and multi-generational communities.
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The Commons
A (free) monthly gathering for the cohousing curious
(and experts too!)
Curious about cohousing but don’t know where to start? Want to meet with cohousing newbies and experts alike? This (free) monthly gathering will include a Cohousing 101 presentation and ample time to connect and ask questions. We’ll share cohousing lingo, best practices and more information on how to continue your cohousing journey. Join us once, or every time – we’ll be here every month on the 10th at 10am MT.
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Senior Cohousing Q&A
Want to learn more about what it's like to build, join, and participate in cohousing as you age? The Senior Cohousing Advocates Committee will be facilitating an informal conversation for those interested in senior cohousing and/or senior living in intergenerational cohousing. This (free) event will take place every month on the 20th at 10am MT.
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Will you share your community stories with us? | Submit anecdotes, photos, videos and stories so that we can help tell the story of life in community. | |
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Cohousing is part of a more sustainable, democratic and connected future.
To date, CohoUS has helped enable the development of over 200 cohousing communities in the US. These communities serve as examples of the sustainable and community-based neighborhoods our country will need in the future. Please support CohoUS and help us double that number in the next few years.
Your monthly gift will both support new initiatives as well as the continued nurturing of our communities and growth of our movement. As an Evergreen Neighbor, you can take pride in creating a legacy that will live on to support future generations.
Donations, as a community or as an individual, are accepted year round and can be made to:
Cohousing Association of the US
3860 Chase St
Wheat Ridge, CO 80212
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The Cohousing Company
The Cohousing Company offers design and some key development consulting service from leading cohousing expert Charles Durrett to assist you in building a high-functioning cohousing community.
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CoHousing Solutions
CoHousing Solutions provides development consulting and marketing services to help you create your cohousing community.
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Studio Co+Hab
Studio Co+Hab is an architecture firm focused on innovative and sustainably-built environments such as cohousing and other intentional communities.
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Classified Listings
Forming Communities and Communities Seeking Members
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Iowa City, IA
For Rent: 800 SF, two Bedroom, one bath for sale in Iowa City
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Iowa City, IA
For Sale: 670 square foot, one-bedroom, one-bath
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Durham, NC
For Sale: 2 bedroom plus office and 2 baths, 3rd floor corner apartment
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Littleton, MA
For Sale: Single level home in Hager Homestead
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Portland, OR
For Sale: 3 bedroom, 1.5 bath stand- alone townhome
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Portland, OR
For Sale: 2 bedroom 1.5 bathroom in Cascadia commons Co-housing community for Sale
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