an organization or building offering supporting capability. another definition is something designed and created to serve a particular function and to afford a particular convenience or service. That’s exactly what this facility will be.

The entire facility will be off-grid and 100% sustainable.

By using a combination of Earth Berm & Enveloped Structures, the energy costs will be significantly lower than normal farms. The implementation of low power LED lighting, USB outlets with traditional three-prong grounded outlet stations for more robust electronics such as computers, dehydrated food production, hydroponic food production, and waste-water reclamation will allow the entire facility to be completely self-sustaining.

The plan is that the wood will supply the fuel for several wood-gas generators in conjunction with anaerobic digesters, biogas generators and an appropriate combination of wind, solar, geothermal and/or hydro power. Internally in the dwellings, efficient heating “Russian stoves” will be used.

I want this facility to serve as not only a business for myself, but also as a rescue for the animals, a therapy and life-skills facility for ex-convicts, prior military with PTSD, and adults who need some form of rehabilitation be it for emotional, psychological, mental impairment or physical handicaps.

I would work with communities to provide an alternative to therapy that is not currently available for most of our nation’s prior military. They would be provided an opportunity to once again be succesful and contributing members of society.

I would work with communities to provide an option to “rehabilitation” that is not currently available for most convicts. They would be provided an opportunity to become succesful and contributing members of society.

I would work with communities to provide various alternative therapies not currently available for most adults who need some form of rehabilitation be it for emotional, psychological, mental impairment or physical handicaps. They would be provided an opportunity to become succesful and contributing members of society.

I would also like to hold several annual and monthly events at the facility:

1. Annual Concert promoting sustainable lifestyles.
2. Retreats for several different disciplines. Educators, Therapists, Spiritual & Lay Community Leaders, Individuals, et al.
3. Vacations for people who are interested in sustainable living and either would like to see if it is a fit for them or as a way to get away from the hectic pace of their current life.

So here is what I’ve come up with so far as a plan of action:

1. Complete a business plan.
2. Write up grant proposals & fund-raising concepts.
3. Meet with a lawyer to ensure legal protections.
4. Build website & utilize social media.
5. Create informational postcards for industry & fundraising outreach.
6. Produce photography, video & audio content to further increase marketability.
7. Keep a dedicated journal to track this great adventure which in turn could become several publications.

I would also like to do the following once the facility has moved past the Planning Stage:

1. Approach several universities and colleges (not just in the US) to set-up residency programs for various disciplines.
2. Approach a progressive county probation and parole office to determine what requirements would need to be met to facilitate a “rehabilitation” program for convicts – with an emphasis on those who are least able to maintain employment ie sex offenders, drug addicts, et al.
3. Provide outreach to determine those individuals who would be interested in providing their expertise. From health services, behavioural, psychological, hydroponic farming, permaculture, holistic medicine, etc.
4. Determine feasibility of constructing separate music, video & arts studios for education, therapeutic and production purposes.

So that’s where I’m at. I know this can be done. I know I will need the help, guidance and support of my friends and family. If you or anyone you know would be able to help, please give them my contact information.

Several years ago when social media was in it’s infancy, I started this blog. Since then I have  written a whopping ZERO blog posts. But then my girlfriend Aly‘s cousin Nathaniel started blogging and I found it to be fun to read, insightful and just plain enjoying to read. Recently, I noticed a friend from college, Kosmos, was writing for a gaming website which led to him becoming the Vice President of Advertising and Merchandise while still writing for them. He’s even been involved with several podcasts. How cool is that?!

Then my dear friend Bridget began writing about her own personal journey and I was so inspired, not only by her sheer grit and determination, but how openly she discusses what she’s doing and what she’s looking forward too. I recommend everyone read it. Lastly, my mother, Katherine, who has always been there for me, has had an INSANE run of crappy years. She has always been an inspiration.

So I decided recently, that I should be doing exactly what these folks have been doing. It betters you, it gives you a way to gauge your progression. I’m doing it to better myself for my daughter, Destany, and my Girlfriend, but mainly for myself. So here we go. I will, undoubtedly, “pimp” out this blog – throwing in some social media, videos, podcasts, the whole kit and kaboodle.

So without further ado….