Community Life
Taking part in community life is at the heart of cohousing. Every resident plays a role in keeping Prairie Hill vibrant, welcoming, and well cared for. We ask each adult to contribute a few hours each month to communal tasks. This helps keep costs low—and connections strong.
Together, we care for our shared green spaces, common house, and community gardens, while also balancing the books, organizing the workshop, and building relationships with each other and the wider community. Most of this work is done in small, interest-based groups we call circles. Every resident serves on at least one circle and also attends a monthly all-member meeting.
Here are our five main circles:
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Building and Infrastructure
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Finance and Legal
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Land
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Sociocracy and Facilitation
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Community Life
Each circle includes smaller subgroups that focus on specific responsibilities. Residents choose roles that align with their skills and interests. Time commitments are flexible. Our goal is to get the work done while fostering a strong sense of connection and belonging.
We make decisions together using a collaborative model called sociocracy, which ensures that every voice is heard. Learn more about sociocracy at Sociocracy for All.
Community Support
One of the great joys of life at Prairie Hill is the mutual help we offer one another. Looking for someone to take care of your kitty while you’re out of town? Need help putting together something from Ikea? Looking for a ride to the airport? You can almost always find a neighbor who can help. And when someone’s under the weather or recovering from surgery, we often help out with meals and errands.
That said, it’s understood that our neighborly support isn’t a substitute for ongoing care. Members who need long-term or specialized care are encouraged to hire additional help or make appropriate arrangements outside the community.
What’s It Like to Live Here?
Living at Prairie Hill is fulfilling and grounding. It invites you to stretch into new skills, discover hidden talents, and enjoy meaningful connection. Sure, it can be a little challenging now and then—but it’s also deeply rewarding and often a lot of fun.
Community here is woven into daily life. You might run into a neighbor or two in the mailroom, pitch in on a project together up in the garden, or enjoy a cup of coffee or a glass of wine together on the porch. Social connection comes naturally. You choose how much you want to take part. If you’re an introvert, rest assured—your privacy will be respected and alone time will be easy to come by.
Sound Interesting?
If Prairie Hill feels like a place you could call home, we’d love to hear from you. Come for a tour or join us for a meal. We’re always happy to welcome visitors. Contact us at prairiehillcoho@gmail.com