Support for emerging communities: GEN-NL trainings

Starting a co-housing community involves much more than just a shared dream. People with similar ideals must work together to create a living environment that not only meets their desires but also includes the structures and processes needed to function successfully. Unfortunately, research among eco-housing communities shows that 90% of initiatives fail before becoming a reality. So what can help reduce this high percentage? The right tools and the right guidance.

The origins of GEN-NL’s training program

About eight years ago, a collaboration between ecovillages was established within the European Union. The goal was to identify the success and failure factors of ecovillages and to develop methods that would help groups overcome the hurdles on the road to communal living. This research resulted in the CLIPS* guide and toolbox, along with the initiative to offer trainings for emerging residential communities.

GEN-NL’s training offerings

Each year, GEN-NL organizes a 2.5-day training weekend, during which the core principles of communal living are discussed and the CLIPS toolbox is introduced. This weekend, taking place in november this year in Olst, is designed to help initiatives overcome initial obstacles and familiarize themselves with the world of co-housing.

In addition to the annual weekend, GEN-NL also offers customized trainings. Groups can, for instance, receive support in choosing a suitable decision-making model or improving internal communication. One example is a 3-day training provided for a former squatters’ project in Arnhem. The residents needed to focus more on community building and had to develop a clear vision and mission.

De CLIPS toolbox

The CLIPS toolbox contains a variety of methods specifically designed to tackle issues commonly found in co-housing projects. The methods are structured around four key levels:

1. Individual starting points – What does each group member bring? What are the talents and experiences within the group?
2. Interpersonal dynamics – How do group members collaborate? What assumptions, expectations, and filters affect the group’s dynamics?
3. Intentions – What is the shared vision, mission, and goals of the community? What do the members want to achieve together?
4. Structure – How are decisions made? What communication structures are in place, and which legal form suits the community?

Each training is tailored to the specific needs of the group, often focusing on communication issues, decision-making, or conflict resolution. The approach is always customized: what works for one group might not work for another.

Examples of successful training sessions

One successful example is a residential group in Zwolle that implemented sociocratic decision-making with the help of GEN-NL. After the training, this model proved to fit their way of working well and was fully adopted by the community.

Another example is the collaboration between GEN-NL and the Cooperative Association Ecodorpen Gelderland. This organization aimed to support the creation of several ecovillages and received guidance from GEN-NL. The trainings and workshops helped them turn abstract ideas into concrete projects and locations, such as the Zuiderveld ecovillage in Lent, Nijmegen.

Not just for ecovillages

GEN-NL’s trainings aren’t just for ecovillages—Tiny House initiatives are also welcome to seek support. The methods and insights are universally applicable and can help launch all kinds of community projects. No matter the type of group, it is essential to have proper guidance and the right tools to overcome conflicts and other challenges.

Costs and Accessibility

The training programs are accessible to groups with varying budgets. The annual training weekends are largely funded by the Ecodorp Stimuleringsfonds, making participation relatively affordable. For customized training programs, a cost estimate is provided based on preparation time, execution, and materials, with groups expected to cover at least 50% of the costs. Additionally, there is a value-based contribution system in place: groups that can contribute more are encouraged to do so to help subsidize others.

Four tips for emerging communities

Paul Hendriksen, one of the trainers at GEN-NL, shares four valuable tips for groups looking to start a co-housing initiative:

1. Hire a process facilitator – This is especially helpful when navigating municipal requirements and finding financing solutions.
2. Make use of GEN-NL’s expertise – GEN-NL’s experience with setting up residential communities is invaluable. “In our own community, we missed opportunities that could have easily been avoided with the help of a GEN-NL training,” says Paul.
3. Create a clear concept – Know what you want, and make sure your idea is well defined. This will prevent you from spending years searching for a suitable location or form.
4. Consider legal structures – The legal form you choose will greatly affect the social dynamics within the community. It’s important to think this through carefully.

In conclusion

The experience and methods GEN-NL offers are incredibly valuable for groups taking on the challenge of starting a residential community. Whether it’s a Tiny House initiative or an ecovillage, GEN-NL’s trainings and guidance help to build a solid foundation and avoid common pitfalls. GEN-NL is therefore not only a valuable partner for emerging communities, but also a cornerstone in creating sustainable and thriving community living.
This year, GEN-NL celebrates its 10th anniversary together with the Aardehuizen community during a festival in Olst.
Interested in joining a training or want more information? Visit the GEN-NL website.

* Community Learning Incubator Programme for Sustainability

Photography: GEN-NL en St. Aardehuis Olst