Company Profile
Camphill Communities of North America
Company Overview
Camphill is a worldwide movement for social change dedicated to creating intentional communities where people with and without developmental disabilities strive together to reach their full potentials. Drawing their inspiration from the principles of anthroposophy, Camphill communities value the profound significance of each human being and practice an art of daily living, mindful of our responsibility to the earth, that creates transformative living experiences for children, youth and adults with special needs and offers a model of renewal for the wider society. Camphill service volunteers, called coworkers, live and work alongside community residents with developmental and other disabilities, either on a short-term (one or two year) or long-term basis in communities ranging in size from fewer than 20 people to over 200. Camphill Americorps members work side by side with other coworkers with the goal of enhancing the quality of life of the individuals with special needs in a lifesharing community.
Company History
Camphill is an international movement of intentional communities designed to meet the needs of children, youth and adults with developmental disabilities through a combination of community life, the arts and work on the land. There are over 100 Camphill communities worldwide, and 11 communities throughout the U.S. (California, Minnesota, New York, Pennsylvania and Vermont) and Canada (British Columbia and Ontario).
In a time where many are experiencing a crisis of spirit and search for meaning, Camphill offers a life of celebration, service, and community building in which all participants flourish. Camphill, founded in Scotland in 1939 by humanitarian physician, Dr Karl Koenig, is based on anthroposhophy. The Camphill approach honors the spiritual integrity of every human being, regardless of ability or circumstances, and recognizes the individual's need and right to lead a full life that includes material, emotional, social and spiritual needs.
In each Camphill community - whether a children's village, a community for young people finding their way into adult life, or communities that provide opportunities for adults - people live together in house communities. Members of the house community share in the daily life and tasks of the house, and engage in work at school, on the land, in one of the craft workshops or providing some other service. Many Camphill communities are in rural settings, which provides opportunities for agricultural work supporting a sustainable model for community living.
The experience offered in Camphill is varied and can include: supporting individuals with disabilities in the home, at work on the farm, garden or in one of the various craft workshops, such as weaving, pottery, stained glass, woodworking, candle-making, bookbinding or bakery; cooking food for your household with a small group of people; enjoying evening activities with others; and creating and celebrating community seasonal festivals together. Celebration and care for the earth is highly valued and has a central place in the life of the community.