Apply to our residential community!
NB: The Fireplace Community filled the two available spots in our residential community, and as of fall 2023, we are not currently reviewing applications to join our residential community (i.e. move in full-time). When this changes, we will share an announcement through our news page, social media, and email newsletter. People interested in living with us are also welcome to send a letter of interest to thefireplacecommunity@gmail.com; we keep names of prospective applicants on file and may directly reach out when we reopen applications.
The Fireplace is seeking new members for our residential community! This intentional community on the south side of Chicago recently celebrated two years of existence. As we imagine and develop plans for continued sustainability, we are seeking two new residents to share this home for artists, activists, and spiritual seekers. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, until slots are filled. We plan to welcome new residents by July 2023.
WHO WE ARE
Currently, our residential community consists of five women. We are an intergenerational community, and all residents are employed outside the house. While our current residents share a Catholic background, our “extended community” (non-residents who participate in our shared life) includes non-Catholics who resonate with our mission. We host frequent guests for meals, retreats, prayer, and programming. To learn more about us, please review our mission and values, visitor page, and community page. Our news page also features content about our community.
APPLICATION PROCESS
Learn about us (see above) and review our community expectations.
Send an informal introduction expressing your intent to apply to thefireplacecommunity@gmail.com.
Submit application, resume, and references to thefireplacecommunity@gmail.com.
Come for a house tour and interview.
Complete a background check.
EXPECTATIONS
$750/month minimum contribution to room and household fees (food, supplies, and utilities)
$100/month can be reduced if resident wants to contribute via extra labor and sweat equity (such as 6 hours of additional labor)
Commit to live at the Fireplace for at least 9 months to 1 year
Share commitment to the Fireplace’s mission and values
Engage in community life in the following ways:
Attend weekly house meetings
Attend house and community retreats (2-4 weekends/year)
Attend our upcoming house retreat, July 7-9, 2023
Attend twice-weekly community dinners (Tuesdays and Thursdays)
Take regular shifts cooking community dinners and/or leading prayer
Help with programming, hospitality, and community development
Commit to community conflict resolution processes
Give 2-3 hours/week of labor to the household chores, development, and mission of the community (a minimum of 8 hours/month)
BEFORE MOVING IN
Show proof of renter’s insurance
Provide proof of COVID vaccination and/or negative COVID test
Understand that we cannot accommodate pets aside from emotional support/service animals
Negotiate monthly contribution to room and board
Sign community agreement and sublease
New resident pays for their own moving expenses