Our social life

At La Querencia, neighbors value connection and mutual support while respecting each person’s need for privacy. We come together to work, play, and share meals, with everyone finding their own balance between community life and personal space. Daily life naturally brings people together — whether it’s a quick chat along the walkway, borrowing a tool, or helping a neighbor with something small. Because these interactions are frequent and spontaneous, people tend to get to know their neighbors much more quickly than in a typical neighborhood. Friendly greetings and familiar faces are part of what makes living here feel welcoming and connected.

Sharing Responsibilities

A man and a young boy wearing colorful tie-dye shirts and aprons are standing at a kitchen sink. The man is holding a yellow dish rack, and the boy is looking down at the sink area. The kitchen has open wooden shelves with bowls and cooking supplies, a microwave, and a spice rack. There are red and green bowls on the counter and a paper towel holder nearby.

Life at La Querencia is shaped by shared responsibility. Each adult is expected to join one or more of our decision-making committees and contribute regular monthly hours to caring for the buildings, grounds, or social life of the community. 

There are many ways to get involved. Some people enjoy working outdoors in the garden or helping keep the landscape looking its best. Others take on indoor tasks or help organize meals, meetings, and activities. With a variety of roles and flexible involvement, it’s easy to contribute in ways that match different interests, schedules, and abilities.

Celebrating and Gathering

A group of people gathered indoors for a Christmas celebration, with a decorated Christmas tree in the background, some wearing Santa hats or holiday-themed clothing, and smiling at the camera.

There’s always something happening at La Querencia, and that’s part of what makes living here so enjoyable. We celebrate birthdays, enjoy movie and game nights, and gather for holidays and seasonal events. Informal get-togethers happen often — sometimes it’s as simple as neighbors chatting outside or sharing a spontaneous meal.

Throughout the year, we create traditions that bring people together. The 4th of July brings an inflatable waterslide and fireworks, Halloween features a costume parade and porch potlucks, and the winter season includes a talent show and White Elephant gift exchange. We also find plenty of reasons to gather for celebrations like Pi Day, St. Patrick’s Day, Mardi Gras, and Labor Day — any excuse to come together is a good one.

Meals Together

People gathered around tables for a communal meal, with some serving food and others eating, in a well-lit room with kitchen visible in the background.

Sharing food is a big part of life at La Querencia. We come together for at least one common meal each week, along with a monthly potluck and holiday celebrations throughout the year. Meals are typically prepared by a small group of 2–3 neighbors cooking together, while another team of 3–4 helps with cleanup afterward — creating more opportunities to connect and spend time together.

Helping each other

People in a kitchen preparing for a meal or celebration with cups and food on the table.

One of the most meaningful aspects of living at La Querencia is the support neighbors offer each other. It’s common to lend a hand - whether that means driving someone to a doctor’s appointment, preparing meals for a neighbor who isn’t feeling well, or picking up a child from school when a parent is delayed. Being able to count on your neighbors when you need help brings a real sense of comfort and connection.