How do you support the things in the world that are not designed for profit and alienation? How do they support themselves without contributing to the problem?
We have one preferred method, which is direct reciprocal contribution.
DO NOT START is a members-only adult community center and autonomous space.
The rent, utilities, insurance, repairs, food, beverages, and events are funded by monthly member dues, and the care and maintenance of the space is shared among those members. So are all the benefits and the assistance that a large group of like-minded people provide.
$40 per month is the cost to be a member, plus the donation of at least eight hours of labour toward upkeep or event staffing etc. So basically we're asking people to sacrifice the equivalent of one bar night per month for 30 consecutive days of community space, shared projects, entertainment, and a place to both block out and hopefully change the state of the modern world, or at least their day to day lives.
Membership includes access to pretty much everything in the warehouse, free or reduced admission to events, classes, workshops, etc, free coffee and snacks and a place to come do some work or meet with friends. It has a small gym, a small library, weekly movies, and help with whatever project you would like to see realised.
Today they call them "third spaces."
That's fine with us. Call it whatever you like. The point is to gather together people who are tired of the way things are and let their combined labours and discussion lead to new ways to achieve group goals.
It's a psychological soup kitchen for the creatively or intellectually hungry. We all pitch in to keep it running, and we share responsibility for its well-being.
If you want to have somewhere to go see a play, meet interesting and creative people, get inspired by watching people make and do things with their hands, start a club or small organisation, get away from your daily woes, find new hobbies and interests, plan some community action, have a place to get some work done, or make art, $40 a month is not too shabby.
We are also open to the barter system, so if you have skills or time to contribute we are happy to work it out that way instead.
Membership meetings are held monthly, so the people who contribute to the space have a chance to have real input into how it is run and what kind of things we do. Also, you get to sit around and drink wine, which is enjoyable alone but better in a group.
Sign up below and see a current member for your application form and membership card, or come down and apply in person.