Occupy Madison, Inc. is a membership-based non-profit organization in Madison, WI, dedicated to fostering a more humane and sustainable world. Their core mission is to provide cooperative living and working environments for individuals experiencing housing insecurity, emphasizing dignity, safety, stewardship, and sustainability. The organization achieves this through several key initiatives, including OM Build, which constructs tiny houses, and OM Village, which operates three tiny house communities.
A unique aspect of Occupy Madison, Inc. is its resident-driven model. There is no traditional application or screening process; instead, prospective residents earn their place through a sweat equity program, contributing hours to the organization's various projects. This community-centric approach ensures active participation in village governance and organizational activities, making living in the villages free for residents who contribute.
Beyond housing, Occupy Madison, Inc. supports its mission through OM Goods, creating products for sale to fund house building, and a Free Store that provides essential items to unhoused individuals. They also engage the broader community through fundraising events like their annual Plant Sale and welcome volunteers for various tasks, from store shifts to construction support, all working towards expanding their innovative housing solutions.