Amélie
Amélie, originally from Quebec, has been a coworker at Camphill Village Kimberton Hills for a year and a half. In the beginning of 2024, she committed to be a long term coworker in the community. She’s reflecting on her experiences and journey at Camphill, which shaped her decision.
She arrived in the community in winter 2022 with a completely open mind and no expectations. "I was just diving in!" She acknowledges that it took her a few days to acclimate and grasp the dynamics of the community, recalling, "No one hands you the comprehensive guidebook of Camphill! It is really a living experience.” But right from the start, she felt safe and at home, observing how people genuinely behaved and interacted with each other.
Amelie helping in the CSA Garden.
Amélie had the chance to explore various workshops: She assisted in the café, helped the dairy farm and the herb garden. Beyond the tasks, she was stunned by the richness of the cultural life: "All those concerts, festivals, plays, singing with the choir, potlucks with the whole village... community life is really nurtured!”
As the summer season unfolded, Amélie dedicated herself entirely to cultivating vegetables in the CSA garden. The work is not always easy, especially when intense heat envelops the area, but is so rewarding. “Growing delicious, nutritious food for your community, and the larger community around the village is so meaningful. Summer is also watermelon season... I remember our team of coworkers and villagers cracking one open and tasting it, to check if they were ready for harvest. It was so fresh and delicious!”
She enjoys her role at the CSA not just for its scenic beauty, but also for the way the social aspect intertwines with the work. Each villager and co-worker has a part to play, and supporting each other is authentically integrated into their time together.
What prompted Amélie to commit as a long-term coworker? "Within the first days or weeks of being here, I thought that I could stay here for the rest of my life. But I took the time to deepen this impression until it became a certitude that my heart wanted to stay here, and I took the step to commit for at least a few more years.”
She took her time to get to know the people around her, not just on the surface. This is actually her best advice for new coworkers: "Interacting with people with kindness for yourself and for others matters most. Be curious and interested; don’t hesitate to ask questions!"
Going through difficult times can provide clarity on what is nurtured in the community, and some very special moments left a profound impression on her. "It may seem strange to speak about it, but two elderly members of the community passed away recently. The way the funerals were held, all the beautiful stories that were shared about them, was extremely moving. Sadness was shared, but also a lot of joy and gratitude for these amazing souls.” It showed Amélie how life was cherished in the community. "Recognizing what those people had brought to the world is one of the very special things that made me realize that this place is unique."