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You've decided to start a cohousing community... What's Next?

Learn how to market your community and grow your membership with one of the leading voices in cohousing, our very own, Ann Zabaldo.

SCHEDULE a MARKETING & OUTREACH WORKSHOP

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

LOOK for us at:

National Coho Conference

(We are the ones with purple shirts and chocolate!)

 

 

 

FAQ's: How do we start?

If you are thinking about forming a cohousing community, here is Ann's
TOP 10 THINGS TO DO NOW

  1. Get and read the book, Cohousing: A Contemporary Approach to Housing Ourselves, by Kathyrn McCamant & Charles Durrett. This is the 'bible' of the movement and contains the basics you will need to know. Have everyone in your group read this book so you will have everyone 'on the same page' during discussions.

  2. If you are interested in building Senior Cohousing, be sure to read, Senior Cohousing: A Community Approach to Independent Living, by Charles Durrett.

  3. Become a part of The Cohousing Association of the United States (CohoUS). This non-profit organization was founded to help fledgling groups. There are many highly experienced members of this association with much wisdom to share. CohoUS is an invaluable tool for networking with other groups.

  4. Look for and join a regional network in your area. If you live in the mid-Atlantic region, join Mid Atlantic Cohousing (MAC). Regional organizations can offer programs and unique networking opportunities.

  5. Join and participate in the Cohousing-L, an electronic mail list. This list is available to anyone interested in learning about cohousing. People in all different stages of cohousing communities - from living in a coho community to thinking about it - participate on this list. Ask questions and get back lots of answers from people with experience!

  6. Conduct a web search at regular intervals. Cohousing is growing rapidly. Everyday there are new groups forming along with professionals actively working in the cohousing field who can help your dream become reality.

  7. Network with cohousing groups in your area - attend their meetings & other functions. Cohousing folks are delighted to share what they have learned about creating community.

  8. Plan a field trip to a built community. It's inspiring. It will bring your vision alive.

  9. Learn everything about cohousing that you can. There are books, websites, and email lists that can help you. Don't forget people living in cohousing. Cohousers like sharing the vision.

  10. Attend cohousing conferences and workshops. A national conference is held approximately every 2-3 years. Regional groups offer seminars and workshops. You can learn about thise offerings at www.cohousing.org or through the Cohousing-L.

Courtesy Ann Zabaldo © 2006-2007

Learn more... How much does it cost? How long will it take?

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