What Are Alternative Communities?

An Exploration of Intentional Communities and Their Role in Creating a More Sustainable and Just World

In a world that is increasingly divided and polarized, alternative communities offer a beacon of hope. These intentional communities are small-scale, self-governing communities that are based on shared values and principles. They are often rural, but can also be found in urban areas.

Alternative communities are often seen as a way to escape the problems of the wider world, but they are also much more than that. They are laboratories for social change, where new ways of living and working can be experimented with. They are also places where people can come together to build strong, supportive relationships and to create a more sustainable and just world.

The Benefits of Living in an Alternative Community

There are many benefits to living in an alternative community. Some of the most common benefits include:

• A sense of community: Alternative communities offer a strong sense of community, where people know and care for each other. This can be a powerful antidote to the isolation and loneliness that is so common in modern society.
• Sustainability: Alternative communities are often more sustainable than traditional communities. They may use renewable energy sources, grow their own food, and recycle and compost. This can help to reduce our impact on the environment and create a more sustainable future.
• Social justice: Alternative communities are often committed to social justice. They may work to promote equality, diversity, and inclusion. This can help to create a more just and equitable world.
• Personal growth: Living in an alternative community can be a catalyst for personal growth. It can challenge us to step outside of our comfort zones and to learn new ways of living. This can lead to a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world around us.

The Challenges of Living in an Alternative Community

There are also some challenges to living in an alternative community. Some of the most common challenges include:

• Isolation: Alternative communities can be isolated from the wider world. This can make it difficult to access services and resources.
• Conflict: Living in close quarters with other people can lead to conflict. It is important to have effective conflict resolution mechanisms in place.
• Financial difficulties: Alternative communities can be expensive to live in. This is because they often rely on donations and volunteer labor.
• Social pressure: Alternative communities can be very different from the wider world. This can make it difficult to fit in and to feel accepted.

Is Living in an Alternative Community Right for You?

Living in an alternative community is not for everyone. It is important to carefully consider the benefits and challenges before making a decision. If you are looking for a way to live a more sustainable, just, and fulfilling life, then an alternative community may be right for you.

How to Find an Alternative Community

There are many different types of alternative communities, so it is important to find one that is a good fit for you. Some resources that can help you find an alternative community include:

• The Fellowship for Intentional Community (FIC): FIC is a network of intentional communities that provides information and resources to people who are interested in living in community.
• The Intentional Communities Directory: The ICD is a database of intentional communities that can be searched by location, size, and type.
• Communities Magazine: Communities Magazine is a publication that covers news and information about intentional communities.

Conclusion

Alternative communities offer a unique opportunity to live a more sustainable, just, and fulfilling life. If you are looking for a way to make a difference in the world, then living in an alternative community may be right for you.