Communities Articles


Here is a selection of articles from previous back issues of Communities magazine. All back issues up to issue #184 are available for download here.

For more information about Communities magazine, visit its new publisher at GEN-US

Feminism vs. Spaghetti Pits

Posted on April 23, 2014 by

Trichomycosis axillaris can be the pits, causing even die-hard feminists to shave.


Sexism at Dancing Rabbit

Posted on April 17, 2014 by

At a community founded in feminism, a member suggests that strategies like corrective discrimination, single-gender gatherings, and prioritizing “gender balance” may themselves be sexist.


Gender-Bending on the Commune

Posted on March 28, 2014 by

When a Twin Oaks member leads a tour, “co” must “address the dress” (when appropriate) and wear a shirt, whether or not participating in the collective menstrual calendar.


Who Builds the Houses?: Gender in Eco-Communities

Posted on March 17, 2014 by
1 Comment

A researcher finds that men still dominate building in eco-communities, and offers strategies to empower women.


Gender: Is There a “There” There?

Posted on March 4, 2014 by

The intensity of community living can bring issues of gender, sexual identity, and gender relationships to the fore as nothing else does.


Gender Issues, #162 Contents

Posted on March 4, 2014 by

Communities #162 looks at gender, sexual identity, gender relationships, and much more.


Energy Efficiency in Cohousing

Posted on January 14, 2014 by
1 Comment

Sustainability is embedded in community—even without a minus-$88-per-year electric bill.


Going For the Grid

Posted on January 14, 2014 by

After three decades off-grid in Washington state, Walker Creek members decide on-grid living is more sustainable.


Community Makes Renewable Energy Work

Posted on January 14, 2014 by

Living Energy Farm embodies the promise of renewable energy used cooperatively.


Putting Our Lives on the Line

Posted on January 14, 2014 by

Jubilee Partners’ clothesline does more than dry clothes with solar power; it helps build community.


Climate Changes

Posted on January 14, 2014 by

Intentional communities are in a unique position to respond to climate change.


Sustainability Is a Life Style Not a Solar Panel

Posted on January 14, 2014 by

A 13-year-old indigenous environmental activist asks us to walk lightly and respect the Earth.


Burlington Cohousing’s Excellent Solar Adventures

Posted on January 14, 2014 by

When community members want to place “private” panels on “public” roofs, don’t expect clear sailing.


Confessions of a Fallen Eco-Warrior

Posted on January 14, 2014 by

A communitarian stops counting nanowatts, and starts counting blessings.


Strangely Warmed

Posted on January 14, 2014 by

Home-scale geothermal in appropriate conditions promotes both community and energy savings.


Parenting in a Community of Friends

Posted on September 14, 2013 by

Living in an extended community family brings joy, challenge, and new worlds of possibility.


The Peace Bridge

Posted on September 14, 2013 by

Tamarack Institute and FIC invite all of us to share our conversations about community.


Community, Public School, and Culture Clash

Posted on September 14, 2013 by

The “public vs. home” debate brings lessons of moral relativism, humility, and tolerance for differing tastes.


Fair Play

Posted on September 14, 2013 by

Spontaneous sharing and even-handedness erupt in Lost Valley’s young “tribe.”


Down at the Pond

Posted on September 14, 2013 by

A child learns that it’s fine to be comfortable in her skin.


Wilderness Journeys Meet Cooperative Culture

Posted on September 14, 2013 by

Group-building activities and conflict management strategies help teen expeditions thrive.


Elders in Community

Posted on September 14, 2013 by

Two community founders offer ongoing lessons and inspiration.


Raising Superheroes

Posted on September 13, 2013 by

Community brings cross-generational teamwork, learning, and many other benefits to both children and adults.


Esther and the Princess of the Fairies

Posted on September 13, 2013 by

Thanks to a magic borne of community, a five-year-old overcomes her fears.


Fall Issue Ads Special Offers

Posted on July 17, 2013 by

Last Call to appear in the Fall issue of Communities Magazine! Deadline is July 24. Also taking online ad orders. Contact Christopher: Ads@ic.org for assistance! More details here:  http://us6.campaign-archive2.com/?u=28bedb7f6d2e462dd4458bc3f&id=90c48c72a3


Yes, Wealthy People Want to Live in Community in Sustainable Ways Too!

Posted on June 7, 2013 by
1 Comment

The facilitator of a telephone support group offers 14 suggestions from current or aspiring communitarians with significant financial resources.


Community Archiving

Posted on June 7, 2013 by

An archiving project helps define a pioneering experiment’s cultural impact.


The Veterans Writing Group and the Military Community

Posted on June 7, 2013 by

A group of veterans discovers empowerment, connection, and healing by forming a writing group.


The Values of Shared Ownership

Posted on June 7, 2013 by

Shared ownership—including of real estate—has many practical benefits.


Sharing Community Wisdom

Posted on June 7, 2013 by
1 Comment

Sharing, living close to the earth, honoring the cycles of life, and developing leadership and communication skills are essential parts of a healthy community experience.