We know so many people who simultaneously feel blessed and privileged with a good, secure, abundant life, but they know they are missing something.  The single-family lifestyle has caused us to trade away too much community, mutual support, and joy for the illusion of autonomy, abundance, and safety.

There is an ache in our bones for a life that is more connected and meaningful, a life that sees us giving more of our gifts, and that leaves more and less of an impact on our world. If you feel that same ache, you’re in the right place.

We’re beyond excited to talk with Dr. Kat Caldwell today about some of the human issues of living in community.

How do we mobilize in the face of climate change, when we are mired in grief and/or denial?  How do we make individual changes that have a positive impact?

Dr. Caldwell has a Ph.D. in Human Development and is a researcher and teacher in the field of Conservation Psychology, which strives to understand the “reciprocal relationships between humans and the rest of nature, with the goal of encouraging conservation of the natural world.”  Kat researches how people make conservation-based choices in their households and how messaging can promote healthier and more sustainable food systems and behaviors. Kat encourages her students to become self-aware, critical thinkers and engaged citizens with an understanding of what motivates conservation behavior.

She is also the Director of Thrive Ithaca, the Ithaca EcoVillage Education Center, so she is the perfect person for us to talk to about how to make this dream of ours work.

With enough money, we could design and build all sorts of awesome housing and community features, but unless we understand what makes people live well together and behave in sustainable ways, we’re not going to succeed, so we are especially grateful to talk with Kat.