The FIC is proud to co-sponsor the School of Integrated Living’s Earthaven Experience Week

This residential service-learning program immerses learners in the life of Earthaven Ecovillage. Participants join the homes, lives, businesses, and farms of the Taylor Creek Watershed community for a hands-on, skill-building, life-changing experience.
You can find more information and register here.

The Earthaven Experience Week curriculum encourages participants to examine sustainability through social, ecological, economic, and eco-spiritual lenses. The learning journey weaves large-group discussions and classes together with intimate hands-on experiences in the village and farms alongside community members. SOIL instructors, together with the community at large, support participants to build important skills, foster awareness for global issues, empower the self, increase connection, and develop the resources required for daily life.

Resilient Community and Regenerative Culture

• Discuss the three-legged stool of sustainability—the social, environmental, and economic factors necessary for sustainable projects to succeed
• Learn about successful ecovillages and land-based endeavors (both rural and urban)
• Explore your vision in a supportive environment with guidance for your next steps
• Understand how people at Earthaven support themselves
• Enjoy community potlucks and dine intimately with community members
• Participate in yoga, meditation, hikes, and other community activities

Organic Food Production and Natural Buildings

• Tour green homes with innovative off-grid utilities (tiny houses, stud-frame, cob, straw-bale, earthship, passive solar)
• Tour small-scale farms and home gardens (permaculture gardens, integrated farms, compost)
• Participate in service-learning projects and farm harvest parties
• Attend the community farmers market
• Eat and cook nourishing, local, sustainably grown, organic food

Renewable Energy and Off-Grid Utilities

• Learn about electricity and a community’s electrical needs
• Tour off-grid renewable systems in practice (photovoltaic, micro-hydro, radiant-floor heating, hot water diversions, wood-fired boiler)
• Make biochar, a charcoal fertilizer with energy-positive production
• Explore the development of energy alternatives to meet the world’s impending energy crisis

Personal Growth and Empowerment

• Learn how to be more connected to yourself, others, and nature
• Practice self-care
• Step out of your comfort zone

Sponsored by the Foundation for Intentional Community
Check out a photo gallery from last year’s Earthaven Experience Week!