Common Ground Ecovillage is self-governed by “circles,” semi‐autonomous working groups which have been formed based on the overall organizational and governance needs.
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- A circle is a group with a common domain and aim where members make decisions and carry out tasks within an agreed-upon framework.
- All members have equivalent voices and decide policy and priorities within their domain and aims.
- Circles are linked together in a way that promotes a free flow of information and influence throughout our community.
- The General Circle is the policy-making group for Common Ground Ecovillage. It is comprised of 2 leaders from each of our four Circles.
A great way to get involved in Common Ground Ecovillage is to start participating in one or more Functional Circles:
Membership: We work to create a welcoming, connected, and well-functioning community, including cultivating a diverse membership with respect to abilities, skill sets, and who we all are (e.g., race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, social class, religion, ages, family structures). We provide encouragement, feedback, and discernment to members throughout the membership process. Come join us!
Land Stewardship: We support the integrity and health of the living land in harmony with community activities. We plan and oversee construction and maintenance of trails and other land improvements, and farm-and land-related buildings. We regularly organize tours and work days to foster connection with the land and carry out tasks such as farming and trail building. Come join us!
Planning and Development: We lead the process of planning, engineering, and constructing an integrated built and natural environment according to Common Ground’s Principles and Intentions. We develop and manage community financial and legal structures, agreements, and financing to that end, as well as ensuring compliance with County and State regulations. We aim to facilitate community involvement in all of these processes as far as feasible and in coordination with other Functional Circles. We welcome new members with engineering, financial, and legal training.
Governance & Communication Circle:
We train and guide members in our governance structure called sociocracy and our collaborative culture (nonviolent/compassionate communication and other collaborative skills). We also develop the policies for and coordinate internal and external communications. We also support marketing and promotion activities and our information technology systems. Come join us!
