At Homeward Bound Villages, we know that housing is about more than just providing shelter. It’s about creating a sense of community, belonging, and shared purpose. That’s why we’ve based our housing model on three key concepts: our housing will remain forever affordable, the creation of cooperative communities, and building sustainable dwellings. These three pillars result in stability, inclusivity, and eco-conscious communities. While we cannot take credit for this innovative model, we can speak to its success in communities across the country, which is why we choose to adopt this model for our communities.
Homeward Bound’s commitment to forever affordability means that our homes remain accessible to individuals and families across a range of income levels. Homeward Bound retains ownership of our rental communities to ensure that our homes are forever affordable. We offer affordable housing to individuals who may not qualify for government assistance yet are housing insecure based on income. We believe that everyone deserves access to safe, stable, and high-quality housing, regardless of their financial situation. By keeping our homes affordable in perpetuity, we create a foundation for long-term stability and security for our village residents.
As an eco-conscious organization, we also prioritize sustainability in our housing developments. We incorporate green building practices, energy-efficient technologies, and environmentally friendly materials into our homes and communities. This pillar of our communities will be evident in our first community, Karwick Village, which is to be built in Michigan City, Indiana. This project has been recognized for employing environmentally friendly site and construction design. By reducing our environmental impact and promoting sustainable living, we not only benefit our residents but also contribute to the health and well-being of our planet. Furthermore, we put an emphasis on green spaces for the community to enjoy.
We know that cooperative community models empower residents to take an active role in shaping and governing their living environment. Through shared decision-making, collective community initiatives, and a spirit of collaboration, this model fosters a sense of agency and responsibility among residents. This model not only enhances the social fabric of communities but also promotes a sense of pride and investment in the place they call home.
The benefits of the cooperative village model extend beyond the residents. We know that by creating communities that are forever affordable, built sustainably, and cooperatively the result is stable, inclusive, sustainable villages that contribute to the overall health and vitality of the larger community. Our cooperative model helps to reduce housing insecurity, promote economic stability, and foster social cohesion. It is our hope that as we have adopted this successful model, it will also serve as a model for other organizations and communities looking to create affordable, sustainable housing solutions.
The benefits of cooperative living are numerous for our future residents. They’ll have opportunities to build relationships, share resources, and collaborate on shared goals. Additionally, they will also have a sense of security and stability, knowing that their home is a place they can afford and rely on for the long term.
At Homeward Bound, we’re proud to be at the forefront of the cooperative housing movement. Our Village Model offers a powerful solution to the housing challenges facing our communities, and we’re committed to expanding its reach and impact.
If you’re interested in learning more about our approach to cooperative living, we invite you to explore our website, connect with us on social media, and sign up for our monthly newsletter. Whether you’re a potential resident, a community partner, or simply someone who shares our passion for creating strong, sustainable communities, we welcome your engagement and support.
Together, we can build a future in which everyone has access to safe, affordable, and thriving communities—one village at a time.