Building What We Need Together: A Neighborly Conversation on Economic Democracy


Invitation Message

We’re gathering neighbors for a relaxed Hylo Zoom — a kitchen-table-style conversation about how we take care of each other and how we might grow a local, people-powered economy that supports ecological well-being. No experts, no slides — just real stories, listening, and shared imagination. Everyone’s voice matters.

Purpose and Tone

Purpose: This is the first session in a gentle series called Building the Solidarity Economy Together. We’ll notice what we already do for one another, share ideas, and explore small, practical steps we could try locally.

Tone: Warm, curious, and open. We’ll keep the agenda loose so the conversation can follow what matters to the people who show up.

What to Expect

  • Open agenda: Brief introductions, then shared stories and ideas.
  • Time: 60–75 minutes.
  • Format: Short welcome, 2–3 minute story rounds, small breakout chats, and a closing circle to name next steps.
  • Facilitation: A volunteer will hold the space and keep things moving; everyone helps keep time and listen.
  • Accessibility: If you need captioning, a different time, or another accommodation, note it in your RSVP and we’ll do our best.

Conversation Starters You Can Use

  • What do neighbors already do to help each other here?
  • Where do you wish our local economy cared more for people and the planet?
  • What small, practical idea could we try together in the next month?
  • Who else should we invite to make this more inclusive?

Possible Outcomes from This First Step

  • A short list of local needs and small experiments people want to try.
  • A volunteer note taker and a simple shared Hylo thread to keep ideas flowing.
  • A follow-up meeting with a focused mini project (tool swap, mutual aid map, cooperative buying group, community garden plan, etc.).
  • A growing circle of neighbors committed to learning and acting together.

Logistics and RSVP

When: [Insert date and time]

Where: Hylo Zoom link in the event thread (posted after RSVP)

RSVP: Reply to the Hylo thread with your name and a one-line note about what you’d like to bring to the conversation (story, skill, curiosity).

Contact: Tony on Hylo for questions or accessibility needs.


Come as you are. Bring a story, an idea, or just your ears. Let’s see what we can build together.