Goals
The startup of our cohousing community will unfold through four distinct phases, each contributing to the foundation and development of the community.
Folks may join at any phase.
Phase 1 Goals
Foundational Assessment and Vision Alignment
Individual Skill Assessment:
Conduct a survey or workshop for founders to identify personal skills, expertise, and resources.
Compile a list of strengths and gaps within the group.
Collective Vision Alignment:
Host visioning sessions to unify the group around the mission and vision statements.
Document shared goals, values, and priorities.
Core Group Formation:
Define roles and responsibilities for core group members.
Recruit additional motivated individuals who align with the community’s mission and vision.
Preliminary Research:
Investigate successful cohousing models and best practices.
Research legal, financial, and logistical considerations for starting a cohousing community.
Create Initial Action Plan:
Draft a timeline and key milestones for the first year of planning.
Develop a communication strategy for regular updates and member engagement.
Phase 2 Goals
Core Group Development and Decision Framework
Establish Regular Meetings:
Set a schedule for consistent core group meetings.
Use facilitated discussions to address essential topics.
Define Community Culture:
Agree on values, expectations, and guidelines for community living.
Outline conflict resolution and decision-making processes (e.g., consensus or sociocracy).
Set Membership Criteria:
Develop clear criteria and a process for accepting new members.
Create an outreach plan to attract diverse individuals and families.
Land Search Parameters:
Identify key characteristics for potential sites (e.g., size, location, zoning).
Assign a subcommittee to oversee land search efforts.
Preliminary Design Planning:
Brainstorm community layout and shared spaces.
Develop a wishlist for amenities and infrastructure (e.g., community garden, shared kitchens).
Financial Strategy Development:
Estimate costs for land, construction, and ongoing maintenance.
Research financing options, including grants, loans, and member contributions.
Labor and Resource Planning:
Outline expectations for member contributions (time, skills, finances).
Discuss potential partnerships with local organizations.
Phase 3 Goals
Implementation and Construction
Legal Structure Formation:
Choose a legal entity (e.g., cooperative, nonprofit, LLC).
Draft and file necessary legal documents.
Secure Financing:
Finalize funding sources and establish a community budget.
Launch fundraising campaigns if needed.
Acquire Land:
Negotiate and purchase the chosen property.
Conduct environmental and zoning assessments.
Design Finalization:
Work with architects and designers to create detailed plans for homes and shared spaces.
Ensure designs align with sustainability and affordability goals.
Begin Construction:
Oversee the construction of housing units and communal facilities.
Establish a schedule for site visits and progress updates.
Community Agreements:
Finalize agreements on resource sharing, utilities, and maintenance responsibilities.
Develop a plan for onboarding new members during construction.
Phase 4 Goals
Community Integration and Growth
Transition to Community Living:
Facilitate member move-ins and orientations.
Establish a rhythm for communal activities and meetings.
Launch Communal Activities:
Start the community garden and assign plots.
Open shared spaces, such as kitchens, playgrounds, and workshops.
Support Business Ventures:
Encourage members to develop cooperative businesses or income-sharing initiatives.
Provide resources for marketing and operations.
Implement Decision-Making Systems:
Test and refine the agreed-upon decision-making framework.
Set regular reviews to address emerging challenges.
Foster Community Connections:
Organize events for members and the broader local community.
Offer nature-based educational programs and workshops.
Monitor and Adapt:
Regularly review community goals and progress.
Adjust practices and systems as needed to ensure sustainability and harmony.