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The Global Ecovillage Network envisions a world of empowered citizens and communities, designing and implementing their own pathways to a sustainable future, and building bridges of hope and international solidarity. OUR GOALS 1. To advance the education of individuals from all walks of life by sharing the experience and best practices gained from the networks of ecovillages and sustainable communities worldwide. 2. To advance human rights, conflict resolution, and reconciliation by empowering local communities to interact globally, while promoting a culture of mutual acceptance and respect, effective communications, and cross-cultural outreach. 3. To advance environmental protection globally by serving as a think tank, incubator, international partner organization, and catalyst for projects that expedite the shift to sustainable and resilient lifestyles. 4. To advance citizen and community participation in local decision-making, influencing policy-makers, and educating the public, to accelerate the transition to sustainable living.

The Federation of Egalitarian Communities (FEC) is a collective of intentional communities united by a shared commitment to equality, cooperation, and sustainable living. At the core of these communities is the principle that, in return for contributing a set number of work hours each week (typically 35 to 42), members have all their basic needs met by the community. Rather than receiving traditional salaries, members are given modest monthly allowances—usually between $75 and $150—for personal or luxury purchases. Community members live, work, and engage socially within the community, with full freedom to leave at any time. The FEC is composed of six full-member communities, each of which upholds the foundational values of egalitarianism, non-violence, and income-sharing. Collectively, these communities are home to around 200 individuals. The FEC also supports its members through various initiatives such as outreach programs, labor exchange networks, and catastrophic health care support. Beyond full membership, the FEC also includes “Allied Communities” and those “In Dialog”—categories for groups that align with some of the FEC’s values or are exploring the possibility of deeper involvement in the future.

Cohousing is a form of intentional community where private homes are clustered around shared spaces designed to foster connection and collaboration. At the heart of the community is a common house, typically featuring a large kitchen and dining area, laundry facilities, and recreational rooms. Outdoor spaces often include walkways, gardens, open areas, and shared parking. These communal areas serve as a hub for neighbors to cook meals together, share tools, enjoy recreational activities, and support one another. The management and upkeep of common property are handled collectively by residents, creating regular opportunities for cooperation and deepening social bonds.

NASCO is deeply committed to advancing our mission through an anti-oppression framework. This approach informs every aspect of our work—from program content and training materials to internal systems and community resources. We strive to challenge and dismantle systemic oppression by promoting cooperative housing as a tool for economic transformation grounded in mutual aid. By supporting cooperative organizers, NASCO works to break down barriers to housing and community-building, empowering our member co-ops to fully embrace the cooperative principle of open and voluntary membership. Throughout our history, NASCO-affiliated housing co-ops and their members have stood in solidarity with both local and global movements for social, environmental, and economic justice. Some have taken part in direct action to challenge injustice, others have engaged in mutual aid efforts to uplift their communities, and many have prioritized creating safer, more inclusive spaces within their homes. NASCO actively supports our members in engaging with justice movements and continuing anti-oppression education within their co-ops. We invite cooperative members, staff, leaders, and allies to join us in advancing social and economic justice—and in shaping a more equitable cooperative movement for all.