At times, Dancing Rabbit can feel like an island; a blip of ecological community living in a sea of unsustainable systems which are failing to meet many of our core
human needs. In truth, we are not an island in a sea, but a node in a network; one of many hubs of intentional resistance and hopeful creation. If we are to attempt a meaningful transformation of the whole system,
we need to build mutually supportive relationships with values-aligned people, farms, projects, communities and organizations in our region, and beyond. In various ways, we’ve been doing this from the beginning, and lately, there’s
been a surge of interest, both from long-time Rabbits and relative newcomers. To support these efforts, Dancing Rabbit’s nonprofit arm, the Center for Sustainable and Cooperative Culture (CSCC) has created the Mutual Aid, Network Building and Activism (MANA) fund. This fund will be used to support Rabbits for self-organized excursions aimed at building regional solidarity. December 2nd is Giving Tuesday and, starting today, we’re aiming to raise $5,000. Every dollar raised up to this target will
go directly into our MANA fund. And build regional solidarity! More about the MANA fund: As the autumn chill descends on the village, my cooperative dining activities have shifted indoors, into the earthen walls of Ironweed. Over a dinner table conversation about the interplay between the village and the nonprofit, we talk about the utility of long-term strategic plans versus a more fluid and adaptive strategy. While both have an important role to play, Emeshe (who happens to be one of our two executive directors) made an observation
about what has been working lately; sensing where the enthusiasm and energy is in the village and directing the nonprofit’s financial and organizational support to those projects to help them flourish. A prime example of this is our internal micro-granting fund, which has provided tangible support to the Agroforestry Collective, Queer Mutual Aid Collective, and Dairy Co-op, among others. In a similar spirit, we’re noticing a growing enthusiasm for expanding and deepening our regional connections and working with organizations who are doing their part in fostering sustainability, interdependence, and resilience. Some villagers have taken the initiative in cultivating relationships with indigenous led organizations,*
organizing mutual aid trips, attending regional gatherings, and welcoming indigenous leaders into our village. Until recently, the nonprofit has stayed largely on the sidelines, occasionally providing financial assistance. However, by proactively offering support to cover trip expenses, we hope to aid and encourage Rabbits to cultivate the partnerships necessary to bring about broad and meaningful change. Rabbits helping the Great Plains Action Society to establish their new hub of operations in Iowa City. Plans include an urban farm, healing/justice house, and multiple community spaces. For this, we started the Mutual Aid, Network Building, and Activism Fund. Its open-ended nature allows Rabbits to follow their passion and get involved in projects and
causes that speak to them, while building our regional network. While I believe that ecovillages and intentional communities play a critical role in shaping our future, it’s important that we also work with people and organizations that are shaping our world from many different angles, and in many different environments. Not everyone can live in a small, rural ecovillage. People in cities, towns, and suburbs need to learn to rekindle their innate connection to the living world and its ancient
rhythms, as well as find ways to build and protect community. Here in our little village we are learning how to reconnect with the land, live in a multi-generational community, and plant the seeds which will one day allow our
descendants to grow up in a world where deep reverence for the earth, water, and air is as natural as the fiery red leaves of sumacs in fall. We keep our doors open and welcome anyone who is curious to see what we’re up to. Now it’s our turn to see what others are up to, to share and receive wisdom, lend a hand, spread our roots outward, and become better relatives and allies. If expanding our mission in this way resonates with you, consider donating using the link below. In community, Eric Mease Villager // Land Steward // Development Lead Center for Sustainable and Cooperative Culture
at |
