Glassworks Co-operative came a step closer to its vision of sustainable, affordable living and economic development opportunities that benefit Owen Sound as a whole.

Acquiring a 40+ acre property in Owen Sound was the latest step for the registered non-profit, and community conversations and workshops on the design and amenities will begin in the new year.

“We’re excited to engage members, partners, and future residents in this process,” said Kelsey Carriere, a founding board member. “It is so seldom that people have an opportunity to shape their communities in any concrete way, and with such a strong commitment to sustainability, affordability and community design, I think we are shaping the future of housing.” 

The Glassworks Cooperative was initiated and is supported by the Beach Community Energy Cooperative, whose first project was the successful implementation of solar energy atop Kew Gardens Public School in Toronto. Today the Glassworks membership includes local young families, singles, retirees, and social entrepreneurs, who imagine a people-centred live-work development that champions the environment and energy sustainability. A welcoming, lively community with private space and shared amenities, access to both public and active transportation, and room for food gardens, studios and a variety of employment opportunities.

Some of those people have already participated in board and committee positions within Glassworks, and grant-writing, working with experienced mentors, and putting up the initial capital for the property. Partnerships,membership and investment continue to grow.

“In this next phase of development, Glassworks Cooperative will continue to build upon the gracious support of Social Enterprise Network of Central Ontario and the Federal Government’s Investment Readiness Programme, adding low-interest member loans, a community bond offering, and pursuing granting opportunities,” said Zoë Thurling, a founding board member. 

The Glassworks Cooperative thanks the following advisors for their dedication and support: Ron Struys, real estate and finance consultant; Paul Connelly, a renowned non-profit and co-op housing consultant and innovator; Kristopher Stevens, Executive Director, Co-housing Options Canada; Mike Murray, a former municipal CAO; and contractor Jake Lawson, whose father Gord Lawson was an avid supporter of the Glassworks vision and worked tirelessly the project until his passing in November, 2020. 

Glassworks also wishes to thank past founding board members Jiri Skopek, architect, planner and advisor for smart, green buildings and sustainable communities; and Graham Bland, Rector at St. George’s Anglican Church and community leader.

“Glassworks Co-op believes in a future where people of all ages and different means can learn, work and live, with voluntary mutual support in a beautifully designed, net zero community.”

Community members are encouraged to visit the Glassworks Cooperative website to learn more about the organization and opportunities to contribute. Regular membership is $50 per year, corporate $100, and the membership for unwaged individuals is $25.

A new future begins in 2021.