In the social therapy institutions, the cooperative social and work atmosphere provides an important foundation for life. Everyone is given the opportunity to plan their own lives in a meaningful way.

Most living communities are self-sufficent with farming,  livestock raising and/or a large garden enabling them to provide a large part of their own milk, meat and vegetables.

In the workshops, the residence work together. Most common are backeries, weaving studios, woodwork, pottery, and candle and papermaking. Many of the resulting products are then sold and the profits used to benefit the institution.

Along with assisting in the care for the residents and doing general housework and upkeep, volunteers can also be employed in the workshops or in biodynamic agricultural work.

 Life in this communal sense means that the group begins and ends each day together. Often there are no clear beginning and ending times for the work, since the care and support of the residents in many of the institutions are not considered jobs but rather a part of everyday life. It is this philosophy that makes anthroposophic living communities such unique places.

A multi-faceted schedule of creative and cultural events is important (annual festivals, theatre, concerts, and other events).

Obviously, living and working with people from many different backgrounds is not without its difficulties, and social conflicts arise.

In addition work with people with disabilities can be a physical and also mental challenge. Volunteers who would like to apply for this area, should not take their choice lightly.

But: Living in such a place for a longer period of time, is a very special piece of life experience. Testimonial: Social therapy