Since 2008, New Hampshire-based ROC (Resident-Owned Communities) USA has facilitated the transition of over 200 manufactured home parks with more than 12,000 homeowners into self-governing and self-managed neighborhoods. Thistle became a ROC Certified Technical Assistance Provider in early 2017. We are actively working with interested residents in several Colorado mobile home communities to purchase their parks.

In late March 2018, ROC USA staff, advocates and trainers gathered in Boulder, Colorado, to share experiences, celebrate successes and support Thistle’s efforts to promote and establish the ROC model in Colorado.

After a busy conference day, Thistle invited local activists and government representatives to meet with ROC executives and staff. We have an expanding network of people interested in the health and well being of mobile home communities in Colorado to support our efforts. Thistle’s work is just beginning to incorporate emerging aspects of community development related to holistic health of community and its impact and contribution to society.

Complementing Thistle’s work with ROC, the City of Boulder recently notified Thistle that they are awarding us a $50,000 contract to provide inclusive resident engagement and empowerment, support for resident associations, and increased access to community resources for the eight mobile home communities in the immediate Boulder area. Ancillary tasks include informing city policy regarding Mobile Home Community issues and regulations, as well as gathering best practices for the state legislative agenda.

For more information about ROC USA, see www.roc-usa.org