2019 National Cohousing Conference

Considering cohousing as social enterprise provides a framework for greater long-term sustainability. This session will review strategies cohousing communities use to increase economic diversity, build equity, and reduce living expenses for members while serving the wider community.

Mark Musick will introduce the concept of cohousing as a social enterprise and provide examples from decades of experience at Vashon Cohousing.

Raines Cohen has visited 113 cohousing communities over the past 20 years. Formerly with Swan’s Market Cohousing, he is currently a member of Berkeley Cohousing. Based on his interest is in the crossover between cohousing and ecovillages, he will highlight examples around the country.

Tom Smyth is a member of Touchstone Cohousing in Ann Arbor. He will introduce “Gather,” an online platform designed to facilitate the sharing of meals, work, and other resources to make communities more fun and effective.