Why I’m Choosing Gratitude Village: A Teen’s Dream, All Grown Up

Why I’m Choosing Gratitude Village: A Teen’s Dream, All Grown Up

Hi, I’m Emma, and I’m 27 now. I grew up in a cohousing community, and those years shaped who I am today. As I start looking for my first home, I know exactly what I want: to live in a place like Gratitude Village. It feels like coming full circle—building the kind of life I loved as a kid, but this time, as an adult.

Growing Up in Cohousing: The Best Childhood Ever

Living in a cohousing community wasn’t something I fully appreciated as a kid. I just knew there were always friends around, fun things to do, and a sense of safety and belonging that most of my school friends envied. We had a teen lounge where I hung out with other kids my age, community gardens where we grew veggies (and snuck tomatoes to eat right off the vine), and epic events like outdoor movie nights and haunted houses for Halloween.

Looking back, I see how those experiences gave me so much more than good memories. I learned responsibility by helping with chores like weeding the garden or organizing activities for the younger kids. I discovered leadership when my friends and I started a recycling project, which the adults supported and celebrated. And I learned the value of being part of something bigger than myself, something that my partner Jake and I love about traveling.

Why Cohousing is Perfect for My Next Chapter

Now that I’m ready to buy my first home, the thought of living in a typical neighborhood doesn’t appeal to me. I don’t want to be isolated, with neighbors I barely know. I want connection, collaboration, and a sense of shared purpose—just like I had growing up. I could go back to the community I grew up in but Jake and I have fallen in love with Colorado. That’s why Gratitude Village feels like the perfect fit.

Even though it’s still in the planning stages, everything about this community speaks to me. A common house with spaces for gathering, working, and playing? Yes, please. A focus on sustainability with features like green roofs, community gardens, and Passive House-certified homes? Absolutely. Living close to the mountains and yet not too far from the city (and the airport). Definitely! The chance to build meaningful relationships with people who share my values? That’s exactly what I want.

What I’m Excited to Bring to the Community

One of the best things about cohousing is how everyone contributes. Growing up, I learned how to pitch in, and I can’t wait to do that at Gratitude Village. I’ve become passionate about sustainable living, so I’d love to help with the gardens, composting, or even brainstorming new eco-friendly initiatives. Since I’ve always been a creative person, I’m excited about the idea of a makerspace where I can work on my photography and art projects and maybe teach workshops for kids or teens. And, Jake is excited about the coworking spaces where we can create our travel podcast and maybe write a travel book.

I also know how important it is for teens in a community to have a space of their own, so I’d love to help create a teen lounge where they can feel comfortable and supported, just like I did. Plus, because Jake and I are in during the early, formative stages of the community, we get a say in how the community will look and what will be important. Having our voices heard and our opinions respected is another reason we love cohousing and are excited to a part of this project!

Why Gratitude Village is the Future

Cohousing isn’t just about nostalgia for me—it’s about building a better way of living. We’re all so disconnected these days, with everyone glued to their screens or rushing from one thing to the next. Gratitude Village offers something different: a chance to slow down, connect, and live intentionally - the sensations we also love about traveling.

For me, it’s about finding a place where I can grow and thrive, just like I did as a kid. And someday, when I have a family of my own, I want my kids to experience the magic of growing up in a community like this—a place where they feel seen, valued, and supported.

Gratitude Village isn’t built yet, but I can already picture it: kids laughing in the playground, neighbors gathering for a shared meal, and a shared commitment to living sustainably and joyfully. I can’t wait to be part of it.

If you’re considering a different way of living, one that’s focused on connection, community, and purpose, Gratitude Village might just be the perfect place for you, too.

Here’s to the future—and to finding a place to truly belong.