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Work Agreement FAQ

Overview

Daybreak Cohousing is a self-managed community and relies on the good will of residents to invest their time and skills on two teams, attend our two-hour monthly plenary, participate in two monthly workdays, and team projects to benefit the entire community.

“Through cooperation and some proximity, the members of cohousing communities build social relationships and work together to address practical needs. This kind of relationship demands accountability, but in turn provides security and a sense of belonging.” states Kathryn McCamant and Charles Durrett in their book Creating Cohousing: Building Sustainable Communities.

Many Daybreak members claim that teamwork is the number one way they form and maintain strong connections and friendships.

What kind of work is not done by the residents?

A: Our agreement says “we will hire professionals as needed.” Each standing team decides what tasks are beyond their skill level or time availability to complete and budget for those tasks to be completed. 

Who is responsible for doing community work?

A: All adult residents are expected to contribute. This applies to renters, long-term house sitters, and owners.

Residents are encouraged to support each other to contribute fully. If a resident has concerns about another resident’s participation, that resident should speak directly with the person or engage a Process Team member for assistance.

What are the alternatives to doing community work?

A: Maintaining the community ourselves keeps operating costs down and HOA dues affordable.

  • Some cohousing Communities offer pay-instead-of-work-system to increase flexibility for members. These systems add complexity, and Daybreak does not offer this option
  • Some communities hire a management company to handle some/all tasks. This approach increases dues and rents, and Daybreak continues to be self-managed/maintained
  • Daybreak allows community work to be performed by a proxy. A resident who opts for this approach is responsible for managing/compensating work proxies.