The main objective of this project was to develop an accessible online course providing individuals and groups with practical tools, methods, and inspiration to start or strengthen a community living project. We aimed to make this knowledge widely accessible through a flexible online format, combining expert input with real-life experiences. By integrating interviews, case studies, and practical assignments, we bridged theory and practice. A second objective was to strengthen the capacity of partner organisations in online education and content creation, enabling them to further develop and reuse these tools. The project also addressed broader societal challenges such as the housing crisis, social isolation, and sustainable living, empowering participants to take concrete steps. Finally, the project supported the development of digital competences through the use of an online platform, interactive tools, and live sessions.
This project responds to a growing interest in community living across Europe, combined with a lack of accessible knowledge and support for starting and sustaining such initiatives. At the same time, the ongoing housing crisis increases the urgency of exploring alternative living models such as cohousing and ecovillages. Many groups struggle to turn their vision into reality due to challenges in group formation, decision-making, legal frameworks, and collaboration. Existing support is often fragmented or difficult to access. We therefore identified a need for structured and practical learning opportunities. The project addressed this by developing an online course combining theory, practical tools, and real-life experiences. We integrated interaction through weekly Zoom sessions, peer exchange, and live activities in existing communities in Belgium and the Netherlands. To maximise accessibility, the course was developed in Dutch, enabling participants with limited English proficiency to fully engage.