You aren't the first on the intentional community scene - get connected
The great thing about the intentional community movement is that it's both 'cutting edge' and not new. This amazing way of life is new to the 'mainstream' and yet there are communities in the form that we are familiar with that are thirty, forty and fifty years old.
Obviously one could argue that humans have been living in tribe, in village, in community for two hundred thousand years.
The 'box in the suburbs' is actually the aberration when one takes the long view.. But we have lost a lot of knowledge in the transition out of community back to community. Fortunately for you, there is a lot of help around.
Eco Villages Australia. People can come and visit Maleny Eco Village and engage in the following ways: - Work programme. Come for 1-3 weeks. Applications neccessary. - Monthly work parties / tours. This is the start of the journey for most people. - Website. Read carefully all sections of the website. It's designed to help you. Best viewed on a desktop computer. - Monthly webinars. Designed for people like yourself, who are on the journey to starting an intentional community. Make sure you join the mailing list to get notifications to your inbox.
"Creating a life together"by Diana Leafe-Christian. This is the 'bible' of intentional community (see image below). Everything you need to know is here. Don't start a community without it. Have I made myself clear? :). Diana has changed her views on chapter 6, and an update online can be found. "Finding Community" is the compendium.
Foundation of Intentional Communities. ic.org. This, the first of the international peak bodies, is really kicking goals - particularly in the training area. Spend $100-$200 with these guys, and learn heaps! Their online zoom experiences are very, very good! Their website has an excellent online database for intentional communities around the world (those that want to be found anyway)
Global Ecovillage Network (GEN). ecovillage.org Our movement is lucky enough to have two peak bodies. GEN supports almost 10,000 ecovillages around the world, and has consulted to the UN and governments who are struggling with building community. Yes, (almost) anyone can build the infrastructure for a village, but the social fabric is the hard thing. GEN also has an excellent international database, training, and resources. GEN is divided into 5 regions around the world.
"Communities Magazine" is published by GEN-US. It has been going since the 70's (under others management) and is an excellent resource for formed, forming and prospective communities. Well worth a subscription. Digital subscriptions include back-copies since the beginning. Check it out here.
GEN Australia. genaustralia.org.au Join the global movement locally. GEN Australia may be able to help you. We hold trainings, conferences, and consultation.
Visit Communities. Stay for a week or a month. You will potentially be in communities for a long time, time spent in someone else's will give you the best head start. And you never know, you might be happy enough to join one that is already started that's not in your image. Joining a village is an underrated action. Many communities need energy, and that could be you.
Enjoy your journey!
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