Fortunately or not, each of our institutions must be reconceived. Even if we were living in a much less superficial world, this would be the case. As it is, there is no shortage of visionary opportunities. Here's a concept based on my experiences of adventure and excitement, and dissatisfaction and wistfulness, at international hostels in various countries.
~~Geoff

Hostels can be a pleasant and stimulating way to meet fellow travelers and make connections. Independent travel is also a great way to try to find out new things for oneself. But resources for making significant contact, especially in small communities like those of Alaska, are hard to find on one’s own. On the other hand, those seeking organized tours are hard-pressed to find trips that are not superficial, except for those that involve outdoor adventures.

A Huzanity Hostel would be a hostel of another color. It would combine study about local issues (and their global implications), useful work in the village together with community members, and shared meals with fellow travelers. In a setting like a small, intentional community, it could be a place where we learn and become more than we know and are.

Travelers would stay at Huzanity Hostels for a week or so in the summer, and a month or so in the winter. In the mornings they would study together; the course would be designed like other huzanity school courses, but especially planned to take account of local issues: native history and culture, the natural environment, the impact of global culture, etc. In the afternoons, hostellers would work together at a community project, such as youth groups, clean-up, churches, and others. Basic food staples would be provided, and hostellers would cook and eat together.

Where? At first, several communities in Alaska, some on and some off the road system.

Is the idea practical? How can we create these hostels, and how much will it cost? Here are some speculations: We ought to own the hostel buildings, and if we can come up with the capital to purchase them outright, the relatively small fees that hostellers pay should be able to cover ongoing expenses. The buildings could be single family homes, and they could be older and in need of work, since we can gather the resources to make necessary improvements. They should have at least several bedrooms--at a minimum, two bedrooms, one for men and one for women, and a kitchen and common room where classes and discussions occur. Classes and community projects would be maintained by volunteers who live at the hostel for several months. Fees for travelers would be minimal—perhaps $10 to $20 per day. It’s all quite do-able, I think. The main obstacle is figuring out how to come up with the capital to purchase the buildings.

Want to help create a first huzanity hostel? Contact us. When a handful of people sign up, we will hold our first meeting!