Some people claimed that growing up in a fatherless home was the major cause of child poverty, delinquency, and school failure, while others denied that single motherhood had any harmful effects. And some objected even to discussing the topic for fear of stigmatizing single mothers and their children.
Not talking about single motherhood is scarcely an option. More than half of the children born in 1994 will spend some or all of their childhood with only one parent, typically their mother. If current patterns hold, they will likely experience higher rates of poverty, school failure, and other problems as they grow up. The long-range consequences could have enormous implications.
We truly believe in the potential of these individuals within these communities, (the Villagers) to find solutions that are driven by heart, not profit. How can we live high-quality, low-impact lifestyles that heal and restore, rather than destroy our environments? How can we give back rather than take more?
Small lifestyle changes like growing and eating healthy food, using renewable energy resources, recycling, gifting, sharing, or reaching out to a neighbor, can all be starting points.
Move down – Self-Governed:
TOJ Villages will be self-governed, meaning residents use the democratic process to make decisions about how the community is operated and managed. A contract with the City of Dallas will regulate how the site may be used, and a Community Agreement and Village Manual outlines internal policies and procedures. TOJ Villages provides ongoing oversight and support. Each week residents will be expected to complete *10 volunteer hours* and attend the weekly village meeting.
During these meetings, residents discuss issues of common interest and vote on policies and procedures for operating and managing their Village, providing a sense of belonging.
