| ***CURRENTLY SEEKING NEW MEMBERS - see below***
We are a six-person household and intentional community located in the middle story of a three-flat in Rogers Park, a Chicago neighborhood on the far north side. We came together over a desire to interact more purposefully with the people we live with (and hopefully apply these lessons to people outside of our household, as well).
Our common interest in social and environmental justice ties us together, though our individual approaches to these issues vary widely. Over the last few years, individual Roosties have taught bicycle mechanics, conducted investigative reporting, coordinated a campaign against evictions, worked on a Mennonite cooperative farm, organized for higher field-worker wages, fought against gentrification, challenged militarism in schools, and taught self-expression through dance.
There’s a lot going on, and part of our task is simply to set aside time for each other in common dinners and weekly meetings. Roosties share chores and costs, and make decisions by consensus. We try to structure our lives so as to minimize waste and consumption by composting, recycling, and purchasing bulk groceries. We also can and freeze food for the winter, and occasionally dumpster dive.
We strive to be as trans-, queer-, and sex-positive as possible.
Our mission statement is as follows:
In order to live more connected and sustainable lives, the members of the Roost strive to build cooperative economic models and supportive relationships. Our democratic atmosphere fosters creativity, self-expression, and faith in others. In modeling our values we practice hospitality, combat oppression, and support social and environmental movements.
The Roost is currently looking for new housemates to fill May 1 and mid-May or June 1 vacancies. We have a single room and a double room (shared with another house member) available. Rent and living costs are affordable ($305 to $355/month for rent - utilities are extra and so is food, which is bought in common), with expectation of full participation in work and house life.
We are looking for people who:
-may be interested in sharing a room (for the May 1 vacancy in the double)
-have an interest in and dedication to building community through collective living
-are interested in actively challenging racism, sexism, transphobia, homophobia and ableism
-are willing to put extra work into sustainable living practices
-are reliable, responsible, and clean
-are willing to make the following contributions: 3 hours of chores/housework per week, cooking dinner 1 night per week, washing dishes 1 night per week, participate in bi-weekly house meetings
-can coexist with our current animals (one dog)
-ideally, are willing to commit for a year or more
We are located less than 1 block from the beach, and about 2 blocks from a Red Line stop. To apply, please email us (theroostchicago@gmail.com) with a brief response to the following questions:
1. Why are you interested in community living?
2. Do you have prior experience living in community? ("Community" can be defined however you choose.)
3. Would you be able to make time for the weekly labor contributions described above?
4. What is your approach to resolving conflicts in your life? | 
