‘The Callan Experience’ – A model for local community self-reliance

Patrick Lydon has lived in Camphill Communities, intentional communities formed with people with personal and social disadvantages that have a strong sustainable mission, for 38 years. Born in the USA, he emigrated to Ireland in 1971 as an alternative to military service in Vietnam. He has actively engaged with social and economic alternative thinking, particularly in relation to community building. Since 2001, he has lived in Callan, Co. Kilkenny, and has attempted to extend his experience of community to the development of the Callan area, including several economic ventures.