More Than Neighbors
Community Flourishes at Redding Gardens Cooperative…
The Redding Gardens Cooperative, or the Co-Op for short, is described by residents as peaceful, affordable, friendly and low maintenance. It’s one of the only housing cooperatives in Northern California, where residents are partial owners of the complex and they represent people from all walks of life.
It’s easy to see the natural beauty and sense tranquility while strolling around the grounds, but the people make it truly special. Retired members chit-chat with others outside, water their gardens and enjoy the sunshine while keeping a watchful eye on what’s happening. Families with little ones bring joy to others’ faces. People are quick to help each other, and small acts of kindness cultivate a sense of community every day.
Whether it’s those with strong backs helping neighbors lift heavy objects up the stairs, or those with green thumbs pruning and fertilizing their neighbors’ gardens, or bakers delivering savory and sweet treats to neighbors’ doorsteps, everyone has something to offer.
Besides helping each other on a personal basis, members also help the Co-Op as a whole. Some use their administrative skills to volunteer for three-year terms on the Co-Op board. Community meals and entertainment in the Garden Room are planned by a volunteer committee. Others keep the laundry rooms spic and span, pick up trash, clean bird droppings off the stair railings and decorate the light poles for Christmas.
The low-cost of living means that neighbors stay awhile, sometimes until the end of their lives — all the more reason to get to know each other. It’s easy to make friends and keep up friendships when the walk is less than two minutes away to catch up over coffee or tea, swim at the pool, or play cards under the gazebo in the garden. Members can be as private or as social as they want to be. There are plenty of people to meet, since there are 119 units.
Something else that makes the Co-Op unique is the share value or buy-in that members pay before moving in: $10,000 for a one-bedroom and $12,500 for a two-bedroom. That cost ensures each unit is renovated for the next resident. When it’s time to move out, residents will be credited the current share value minus any needed renovation costs.
The end goal is not for members or the Cooperative to profit. Members say the low monthly carrying charges are a blessing, whether it’s helping them live on a fixed income or save for a home or rainy day. •
Redding Gardens Co-Op
301 South St., Redding • (530) 691-4137
Article Written by:
Sarah Wind appreciates capturing the beauty of people’s stories and sharing them with the world. She’s written one book, From Recliner to Revival, available through Amazon.
