Cohousing

Characteristics of Cohousing

Residents of cohousing generally have varied backgrounds but come together because they share similar ideals of neighborhood and community. Usually through the efforts of one or two people, potential members will gather to determine the level of interest in such a neighborhood. Once enough people [Page 56]have shown an interest in cohousing, the potential members establish the standards that will guide their vision for success. When common interests are defined, future members begin an organizational process and establish the steps they will follow in establishing their planned community. During this process, members form teams or committees to plan and organize in matters they deem necessary for the success of their cohousing community. The teams are organized relevant to the goals and values each community establishes. Some common goals and values might be supporting physical, social, and emotional well-being; concern for safety and security; and promoting sustainability. The goals and values can vary depending on the type of cohousing community, as well as the locale, whether urban, suburban, or rural.

Ongoing aspects that members of a cohousing community face are problem solving and decision making. Members reach agreements through consensus. Consensus is achieved through a thorough and respectful discussion among community members until a decision is reached that is acceptable to all members as best benefits the goals and values of the community as a whole. There are two alternatives for someone to take when he or she is not in agreement with a decision. The first choice a person can take is to stand aside, a process of recording a person's opinion on a matter but not hindering action of the group to move forward on a decision. The second choice the person can take is to stand in the way, giving a person the ability to block a decision when they feel the matter at hand is disadvantageous to the community as a whole. The person who chooses to stand in the way must state his or her reason for stopping the group from moving forward. When absolutely necessary, a vote may be taken in which an agreed-upon majority is required for any action to be taken. Though it may at first seem to be a daunting and difficult task, the process of reaching consensus allows members to build trust in each other and develop strong relationships.

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