Cohousing-L Mailing List: Re: How did you start your cohousing group & find members?

[Sharon Villines (sharon]

> On May 15, 2017, at 12:02 AM, Gary Leib/US/RI/02809 via Cohousing-L 
> <cohousing-l [at] cohousing.org> wrote:
> 
> In Providence, RI a small group of us has met and started to brainstorm about 
> how and where to build.  We created a website, a Facebook page and, and a 
> Meetup page.

Very smart first steps. Central locations for everyone to communicate and to 
establish transparency and inclusion. Some people will watch a long time before 
they make a decision.

> -- So, how did other start-ups find members?  
Flyers, flyers, flyers. Unitarian Chuches, ethical societies, liberal Jewish 
community centers, chiropractors offices, whole food stores, etc.

Friends, friends, friends. Not everyone will have a friend who wants to join 
but friends of friends of friends are your best bet. Personal recommendations.

> -- What are priority steps?

Accept (1) that you can’t be everything to everyone, and (2) that the group 
will loose people when land is chosen. Location is important to people because 
of jobs, family ties, and schools. Particularly in large urban areas. Avoiding 
one and two hour commutes to work and to care for family members will guide 
everyone’s choices.

Good luck! Even though it is easier now with more resources and experience 
available, it still takes time and focus. And sacrifices on the part of the 
core ;people.

Sharon
----
Sharon Villines, Washington DC
"We are confronted with insurmountable opportunities." Walt Kelly