Beyond Our Properties

SILK Homes doesn't exist in isolation. We're part of a larger movement toward intentional communities, sustainable living, and cooperative economics. Our affiliations connect us to thousands of like-minded individuals and organizations working to create positive change in the world.

Through these networks, we share knowledge, learn from others' experiences, and contribute to the growing body of wisdom around community-centered living. Whether it's sustainable building practices, permaculture gardening techniques, or models for cooperative hospitality, we're both students and teachers in this global classroom.

Our Affiliations

Foundation for Intentional Community

Connecting communities and seekers since 1986

The Foundation for Intentional Community (FIC) supports the creation and sustainability of intentional communities worldwide. As members, we're part of a network that includes ecovillages, cohousing communities, urban communes, and other cooperative living arrangements.

What This Means for SILK Homes:
  • Access to best practices in community governance and decision-making
  • Connection to sustainable living resources and expertise
  • Participation in the Communities Directory and events
  • Learning from other hospitality-focused communities

Global Ecovillage Network

A global movement of regenerative communities

The Global Ecovillage Network (GEN) connects ecovillages and sustainable communities around the world. Through GEN, we're linked to a movement working on solutions to the ecological, social, and spiritual crisis of our times.

What This Means for SILK Homes:
  • Alignment with global sustainability goals
  • Access to permaculture and regenerative practices
  • Connection to the UN Sustainable Development Goals
  • Learning from international community models

How We Contribute

🏠 Historic Preservation Model

We're developing a replicable model for turning historic properties into sustainable community assets, sharing our successes and challenges with other communities.

💼 Hospitality Workforce

Our crew development programs create pathways for people seeking meaningful work in the growing intentional community sector.

🌱 Urban Agriculture

Our victory gardens demonstrate how even small properties can contribute to local food security and community self-reliance.

🤝 Healthcare Integration

By serving traveling medical professionals, we're exploring how intentional communities can support essential workers.

Learning & Events

Through our affiliations, we regularly participate in learning opportunities and events that strengthen our community and expand our knowledge.

Communities Conference

Annual gathering of intentional community practitioners sharing knowledge and best practices.

Ecovillage Design Education

Intensive courses on sustainable community design, permaculture, and regenerative systems.

Regional Networks

Local and regional gatherings connecting communities across the Ohio River Valley.

Our Local Communities

While we're connected globally, our roots are firmly planted in the communities of West Virginia and Ohio where our homes are located.

Ravenswood, WV

Home to our historic 1890s cottage cluster, Ravenswood is a small town on the Ohio River with a strong sense of community and local pride.

  • Local farmers market supporter
  • Historic preservation advocate
  • River cleanup volunteer
Parkersburg, WV

A larger regional hub where we operate several properties, Parkersburg offers urban amenities while maintaining small-town character.

  • Community garden network member
  • Local business supporter
  • Arts council contributor
Marietta, OH

Ohio's first permanent settlement, Marietta combines rich history with a vibrant cultural scene and strong environmental consciousness.

  • Historic district steward
  • Muskingum River advocate
  • Local food system supporter

Join the Movement

Whether you're interested in intentional community, sustainable living, or just want to be part of positive change, there's a place for you in this growing movement.