Some memorable events.
Land Day
Many cohousing communities celebrate the anniversary of the day on which they acquired the land on which to build their homes. Arbco’s first Land Day was August 30, 2007. We celebrate Land Day each year with a special meal and fun activities, including a time for people to share memories from “the early years.” After dinner kids can mark their new height on the “growing wall” in the exercise room. We also take a group photo on Land Day.
Making music
Music plays a big role in Arbco life. Two of our members are full-time music teachers, and many others participate in music groups. We have a relaxed weekly “sing-along,” and have hosted student recitals, string quartets, Madison’s monthly “music night,” Scottish dance, and the Quaker Meeting’s Christmas caroling event. In addition we have presented concerts by professional musicians who either live in or are visiting Madison.
Red Cross Blood Drives
Can a blood drive be fun? Yes, if it happens at Arbco! This summer Arbco will sponsor it’s 10th semi-annual blood drive. They have become known as the “coziest blood drives in town,” with a comfortable setting, friendly and fun people, and lots and lots of wonderful homemade food. And, most importantly, giving blood is a compassionate gift to the larger community.
Community involvement.
Arbco is proud of our connections with our neighbors and the world at large. We have provided meeting space for the neighborhood association and for candidate forums. Our members are active in many organizations, including (in no particular order):
- Citizens Climate Lobby
- Friends of Lake Wingra
- Madison Music Makers
- 350.org
- Madison Friends’ Meeting
- Partnership for Affordable Cohousing
- Neighborhood House
- Habitat for Humanity
- The American Red Cross
- University of Wisconsin Arboretum
- Madison Overture Center
- Madison Storytellers
- Workers’ Rights Center
- Santas Without Chimneys
- Folklore Village
- Sector 67
- Agrace Hospice
- Wisconsin Easter Seals
- Refuge Films