Interim+Progress+Report


 * __ Interim Report: Building a Community Inspired by the Amish Lifestyle __**

Rather than looking to create a solution for the Amish culture, we have decided to research ways in which we can incorporate their values into ours. Inspired by the simplistic and highly sustainable lifestyle of the Amish, we are in the process of establishing a community for voluntary residents, regardless of religion and demographic. Geographically, inhabitants can expect to be part of a slightly secluded piece of land for those who wish to maintain a lifestyle that is minimalistic and environmentally ethical. Similar to a nudist colony or native reserve, these communities are for people of a particular, and different, way of life that is not suited for everyone. Nudists, for example, live in such a way that may not be accepted or suitable under modern conditions, but those who choose to participate in these colonies happily do so. As such, we have decided that Brampton could be a good location where this community find its secularized piece of land while potentially allowing for growth from nearby communities who wish to join. More specifically, this community can reside on McLaughlin and Wanless, with a square footage of 20,000- 25,000.

With the understanding that the Amish lifestyle is not accepted or realistic for modern lifestyles, some individuals may prefer to conduct their lives without material “necessities”. Without the extremities of religious obligation, our community serves similar public interest for people who voluntarily reside there.

There will be a general consensus by residents for certain activities that affect the functionality and maintenance of this area. For example, the first week of every month may have a “no electricity” challenge. Some may choose to completely abstain from activities that require electricity, while others may only be able to cut back on certain luxuries, such as cell phones and television. Another example, perhaps each day of the week can present a different challenge where on Mondays residents are encouraged to save water, Tuesdays they can save electricity etc. Certain municipalities in the Greater Toronto Area currently participate in abstinence programs to save water or electricity, such as not watering one’s lawn on a Wednesday. Eventually, this would become routine and become a norm in the community. Incorporating this concept into our community, it will not “punish” those who do not partake, but encourages cooperation that is environmentally responsible advantaging everyone.The community will serve as an example that living a minimalistic lifestyle is possible and functional. Electricity generated by solar energy will reduce our overall carbon footprint. Communication technologies, including Internet and cell phone access will be very limited, if not non-existent for certain individuals. Do-It-Yourself projects will be highly encouraged, as a community that is hands-on and tight-knit. The point is to encourage residents to be resourceful and help one another, so that knowledge of particular skills like cooking, architecture or craftsmanship are practiced and shared.

At the heart of this district will be a convention centre that will run these monthly events and host community gatherings to share new ideas. The community will run like its own municipality, incorporating the opinions of those who reside.

The Amish lifestyle is very much based on guilt and obligation that comply with strict religious rules. Our community is completely voluntary and democratic, in that no one is shunned for “breaking” standards that the majority complies with. If they choose not to participate in community activities, they are only taking away from their own social experience.