Viability

Drawing from decades of case studies, our community design incorporates proven principles from thriving intentional communities such as Dancing Rabbit (MO), Earthaven (NC), and Twin Oaks (VA). These successful communities:

Use diversified income models (retreats, tours, education, crafts, agriculture)
Balance idealism with practical governance and economic strategy
Employ hybrid legal structures (501(c)(2), 501(c)(3), co-ops, LLCs)
Emphasize participatory governance, interpersonal development, and sustainable growth

In particular, Dancing Rabbit Ecovillage, located in Missouri, stands as a local model for SoL Farms to build upon. Their use of a land trust to secure affordable, mission-aligned land tenure, combined with a robust internal governance model and educational nonprofit, demonstrates a scalable and legally sound foundation. SoL Farms aims to adapt and expand on this template, integrating additional elements like wellness infrastructure, agritourism, and spiritual programming.

Land Structure

The land will be held by a nonprofit land trust or similar vehicle to ensure long-term community stewardship. Members may lease housing lots or join housing cooperatives within the village framework. The core 40 acres will serve as the operations and symbolic heart of the project, structured around a Seed of Life layout

Economic Model

Our economic framework draws on proven strategies from successful small communities:

Farm Stays & Agritourism: Airbnb-style lodging, workshops, and animal interactions (including high-appeal species)
Retreats & Events: Ceremonies, workshops, and conscious community experiences
Plant Medicine Cultivation: Cannabis, mushrooms, herbal remedies (state-compliant)
Education & Training: Permaculture, wellness, and spiritual curricula
Artisan Products & Cottage Industries: Locally made goods, herbal products, farmed goods
Resident Contributions: Lease fees, co-op shares, work-exchange participation

These streams will be phased in based on capital, community bandwidth, and infrastructure development.