Lifesharing is as simple as it sounds. It’s sharing life. In Camphill, we make an art of this. Our shared life is one of diversity, inclusion, and belonging.
What is Lifesharing?
Finding self-expression & community through art
Simply stated, lifesharing is a group of people who choose to live together. In the context of Camphill, it means that people with and without intellectual disabilities live together in a mutually supportive home and accompany each other through life. Just like living together as a family, the connection is intimate and deep – personally, socially, spiritually, and culturally – it is a partnership in living.
A typical Camphill household includes two experienced householders, their children, two or three young volunteer coworkers, and two or three residents with disabilities. Everyone has personal space but also enjoys a strong common life. An important part of this is shared mealtimes. Mealtimes give everyone an opportunity to share their experiences of the day, or quietly draw strength from shared food and companionship. Good food is a big part of life in Camphill and we believe in healthy, fresh home cooking.
Love starts when we push aside our ego and make
room for someone else.
~ Rudolf Steiner
Home is Where the Heart Is
Creating a nurturing home life
We have all heard the saying, “Home is where the Heart is” but what does that mean exactly? In Camphill, individuals are striving to cultivate the respect for and interest in one another, on a purely human basis. Respect and interest in another human being, regardless of ability or disability, lays a foundation on which love can grow.
We know about the sense of security and belonging that is generated through a nurturing home life. Our communities are composed of households that offer people a set of close, dependable relationships that become the backbone of natural supports for one another. This gives everyone the confidence they need to explore the wider environment, tap into their creativity and contribute to the community.
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Connection and Belonging
Relationships That Last a Lifetime
Camphill is built on relationships. We strive to develop meaningful, equal relationships, regardless of a person’s level of need. Everyone benefits from the reciprocal relationships in communities, and a great value is placed on friendship and love. We deliberately create the stability and continuity that allows relationships of depth and quality to form.
