Work Exchange Program at Sustainable Community in Missouri, USA

• Accomodation Provided
  Yes
• Meals Included
  Vegetables or Fruits Provided
• Types of Help & Learning Opportunities
  Animal Care, Arts & Culture, Building & Repairing, Farm Help, Gardening & Planting

About Dancing Rabbit Ecovillage:

Dancing Rabbit Ecovillage in Northeast Missouri has been a beacon of sustainable community living for over 20 years, inviting visitors to experience a connected and eco-conscious lifestyle firsthand. Through their Sustainable Living Visitor Program, participants can immerse themselves in organic permaculture, natural buildings, alternative energy, and self-governance during a 2-week stay. The community offers various workshops such as the Cob Oven Workshop, where individuals can learn to build ovens using natural materials, fostering experiential learning and a sense of camaraderie among participants. Additionally, the Women’s Retreat provides a transformative experience for women seeking growth, self-love, and connection with nature and others in a supportive environment led by Laura Wolf. Through programs like these, Dancing Rabbit aims to inspire and empower individuals to embrace sustainable practices and deepen their relationship with themselves, their surroundings, and their community.

Furthermore, the ecovillage also offers opportunities for deeper engagement through work exchanges, allowing participants to live and work alongside community members on meaningful projects that align with their interests and skills. Known as “Wexers,” individuals can gain hands-on experience in various aspects of community life, from dairy processing to sustainable building practices using local resources. This immersive experience not only enriches participants’ knowledge and skills but also fosters a sense of connection and collaboration within the community. Through events like Singing Rabbit, which focuses on the power of singing in community, Dancing Rabbit continues to promote togetherness, joy, and skill-sharing while advocating for a lifestyle that emphasizes sustainability, connection, and personal growth.

Work Exchange Program at Dancing Rabbit Ecovillage:

1. **Overview:**
– Immerse yourself in a radically different lifestyle focused on sustainability and community living.
– Actively contribute to projects aimed at building a regenerative, resilient, and cooperative culture.

2. **Program Details:**
– Single opening in March, with openings available for July and beyond.
– Host provides food and living expenses during your stay without any cost to participate.

3. **Types of Work:**
– Natural building
– Organic gardening
– Food preservation
– Animal husbandry
– Cheese making
– Agroforestry
– Small business projects
– Seasonal homesteading/village activities

4. **Timing:**
– Work exchange/internship opportunities mainly from April to October.

5. **Innkeeper Position:**
– Paid position available at the Milkweed Mercantile.
– Minimum commitment of three months.

6. **Bloom and Build Brigade:**
– New initiative for work exchangers to form a subcommunity and kitchen co-op.(Wexers)
– Minimum commitment of four to five weeks, longer stays welcomed.

7. **Community Projects:**
– Critter Kitchen construction
– Organic gardening expansion
– Chestnut orchard establishment
– Dairy Co-op participation

8. **Additional Work Areas:**
– Natural building at the Hub
– Roofed tent platforms construction
– Invasive species management
– Forestry and firewood processing
– Hospitality tasks and cooking
– Community chores and seasonal activities

9. **Wexer Tasks & Responsibilities:**
– Help in various projects, both independently and collaboratively.
– Weekly commitment of 25-30 hours, including cooking for the co-op.
– Wide range of tasks from gardening to dairy work.
– Participate in planning meetings and community activities.

10. **Specialized Positions Available:**
– Garden Manager
– Dairy Co-op Intern
– Natural Building Lead
– Milkweed Mercantile Support

11. **Amenities for Participants:**
– Camping platforms and indoor spaces available.
– Access to outdoor kitchen co-op for shared meals.
– Showers, composting toilets, electricity, and wifi provided.

12. **Community Offerings:**
– Participation in Ecovillage Experience weekends.
– Weekly events like potlucks, game nights, and bonfires.
– Access to swimming pond, sauna, trails, and relaxing spaces.

13. **Required Skills & Qualities:**
– Motivated, hard-working, and adaptable.
– Self-reliant and self-directed.
– Open to learning and community engagement.
– Passionate about sustainability and grassroots initiatives.

Contact Details

Exchange Type

• Home for Time

Regions

• United States

Gallery

Video

Location