Goin’ to the Country, Version 2.0

Wheelbarrow: check. Pick axe: check. Software to help organize all of that collective labor: check.

You know the Internet age has come full circle when even back-to-the-earth types — not including the Amish, of course — have access to technology specific to their needs. It wasn't yet active last time we checked, but the soon-to-launch software platform WeCommune specifically caters to commune organizers.

As reported by Fast Company, WeCommune is the brainchild of Stephanie Smith, whose Wanna Start a Commune? project organized cul-de-sac-sharing neighbors throughout Los Angeles into miniature communes. That particular project sought to create neighborly efficiencies through the sharing of space and duties; for example, one family with adequate sun and garden space might house a community garden, while the adjacent home of a neighbor on the same cul-de-sac would provide community childcare.

That's the way communities worked before the forces of capitalism convinced us that every household needs its own set of tools and fleet of oversized vehicles.

Without the ability to take a sneak peek at the WeCommune website, our analysis is merely cursory. But according to the Fast Company story, the software will be applicable to groups of three or more people who wish to work together for common goals. Imagine a Facebook for locally adjacent households that want to, say, plan a neighborhood home school or a community garden bountiful enough for everyone to share in its labor and harvest.

Rumor has it that the site will launch this week, so keep checking back. In the meantime, you can plant the seeds of neighborhood organizing by sitting on your front porch and waving to passers-by.