Sebastopol Village Network

The Sebastopol Village Network (SVN) is an organization that synergizes the growth and development of community solutions. SVN provides multiple entry-points for diverse individuals and institutions to collaborate and increase local efficiency, connection and innovation.

There are four primary components of the Village Network Model: Members, Village Center(s), Network Circles and Pollinators.

Members are individuals who choose to collaborate with one another personally and/or professionally to create mutual benefits for each other and the village as a whole. Members pay a monthly membership fee, and are able to have a voice in the decision-making of the network as well as increased access to network resources such as shared space/tools and discounts on products, services and events.

Village Centers are venues for the network to gather, share information/support and incubate regenerative enterprises/projects. The  first Village Center in Sebastopol, called the Synergy Lab, is opening Winter 2008 in the Florence Lofts, a beautiful eco-development with an organic cafe, yoga studio and offices.

Network Circles are groups of people oriented around a particular interest, and can represent existing groups such as the Chamber of Commerce, or new groups such as Edible Landscapers. There is no limit to the creation of and participation in Network Circles, and each will develop its own autonomous structure within the network. Members may join circles that they are interested in, and a portion of their monthly fees will go to the circle(s) of their choice. These resources will be available as investments for Network Circles to create benefits such as purchasing gardening supplies in order to produce food for the network.

Pollinators are individuals who help members to share information and resources by communicating needs and offerings throughout the network. Each member chooses a pollinator to receive a portion of their membership fee, and the pollinator represents the member in the network. A pollinator can be both a “scout” and a “promoter” and facilitates both business and personal exchange. This element increases efficiency, community connections and the recirculation of wealth/resources within the community.