About Us
Learn more about our cohousing organization and our mission to make a positive impact on our community through Inclusive Cohousing
What is Inclusive Cohousing?
Inclusive cohousing is a revolutionary approach to community living that embraces and supports individuals of all neurotypes, including those with Autism, Down syndrome, and other developmental or intellectual disabilities. It combines the principles of traditional cohousing with a focus on creating environments where neurodiverse individuals can thrive alongside neurotypical residents.
In an inclusive cohousing community, residents live in private homes but share common spaces and facilities. These communities are designed to foster social connections, mutual support, and a sense of belonging for all members, regardless of their cognitive abilities or challenges.
The History of Inclusive Cohousing
The concept of inclusive cohousing has its roots in two parallel movements:
1. The Cohousing Movement: Originating in Denmark in the 1960s, cohousing was introduced to North America in the 1980s by architects Charles Durrett and Kathryn McCamant. Traditional cohousing focuses on creating intentional communities where residents actively participate in the design and operation of their neighborhood.
2. Disability Rights and Inclusion: The push for more inclusive living arrangements for individuals with disabilities gained momentum in the late 20th century, emphasizing community integration and independent living over institutional care.
Inclusive cohousing emerged as these two concepts converged, recognizing the need for supportive communities that cater to the unique needs of neurodiverse individuals while promoting integration with the broader community.
Importance for Neurodiverse Individuals and Their Families
Inclusive cohousing offers numerous benefits for neurodiverse individuals and their families:
1. Long-term Security: Parents of neurodiverse individuals often worry about their children’s future after they can no longer provide care. Inclusive cohousing offers a sustainable, long-term living solution where support systems are built into the community structure.
2. Social Connections: Neurodiverse individuals often struggle with social isolation. In an inclusive cohousing community, opportunities for social interaction are abundant and designed to be accessible to all neurotypes.
3. Independence with Support: These communities strike a balance between independent living and readily available support, allowing neurodiverse individuals to develop life skills and autonomy in a safe environment.
4. Diverse Skill Sharing: In inclusive cohousing, residents with different abilities can contribute their unique skills and perspectives, fostering a rich, diverse community where everyone’s contributions are valued.
5. Reduced Caregiver Stress: For families, the shared responsibilities and built-in support network of cohousing can significantly reduce the stress and burden of caregiving.
6. Community Education and Acceptance: By bringing neurodiverse and neurotypical individuals together, these communities promote understanding, acceptance, and celebration of neurodiversity in the broader society.
7. Customized Environments: Inclusive cohousing communities can be designed with sensory-friendly spaces and adaptable environments that cater to the specific needs of neurodiverse individuals.
8. Economic Benefits: Shared resources and spaces can make housing more affordable and sustainable for families caring for neurodiverse individuals.
Inclusive cohousing represents a paradigm shift in how we approach housing and community for neurodiverse individuals. It offers a model where people of all neurotypes can live together, support each other, and create a vibrant, diverse community that enriches the lives of all its members.
As highlighted in Charles Durrett’s book “One Life, Live It!”, communities like Sólheimar Ecovillage in Iceland demonstrate the profound positive impact that inclusive cohousing can have on the lives of neurodiverse individuals and their families. These pioneering projects pave the way for a future where inclusive communities become the norm, fostering a more accepting and supportive society for people of all abilities.