Common Cause Communities

Common Cause Communities (C3) are housing options for students who wish to build community and live with each other while exploring a theme or common interest/passion. Residents in C3 areas apply to be part of these unique communities and are offered special programs and opportunities to teach others about their interests, strengths, and passions.

C3s are a great opportunity for students to gain great leadership skills, share their knowledge with others, and live with people who hold similar values.  C3s are different from other residence halls because they allow students to further explore topics and causes important to them.  C3 areas will offer special related programs and opportunities, which distinguish these communities from other housing.

For Sophomores: "Be the Change" Suites

Sophomores who elect to live in these Rosenthal suites will apply as a full suite of eight residents. These suites will pledge that they will participate in and sponsor monthly programs consistent with their identified cause.  With oversight and advising of the Community Development Coordinator and Community Advisor (CA), this living community would partner with a faculty or staff person in order to meet their monthly goal of engaging with their identified cause. This may include coordinating the budget, training, potential travel off-campus, conversations, and commitment to interpersonal communication, and learning outcomes. This year's themes are: Be Who You Are: Exploring Gender Expression, Be What You Believe: Facilitating Interfaith Dialogue, and Be What You Do: Rediscovering Social Justice.

For Juniors and Seniors: Substance Free Community

A floor of suites in Ziv for Juniors that is alcohol and drug/substance free. Students in this community help educate and learn about responsible choices around alcohol and prescription and other drugs. Residents will compose their floors' goals and norms, which are consistent with University expectations and their own values. This community receives programming opportunities from the Community Development Coordinator, CA, and the Alcohol and Drug Counselor. Students on the Substance Free Floor will meet monthly, attend programs and dinners, and partner with campus and community organizations committed to educating students about alcohol and drug use and responsible choices.  See the Substance Free Community Application Guide for more information on this program and the application process.

For Seniors: Balanced Living House

A house in Ridgewood Quad for seniors who wish to learn more about wellness for their body, mind, and spirit as they prepare for life beyond Brandeis. Students in this house will be required to sponsor and attend monthly programs, which meet their needs as seniors and will encourage life-long wellness. Attendance is taken at these programs and students who fail to fulfill their obligations to the Balanced Living House will be reassigned. This community receives on-going support and programming opportunities from the Community Development Coordinator and CA. Only seniors in good conduct standing and who will be enrolled for the full academic year are eligible to apply. Students in this community are also strongly encouraged to register for the Senior Year Experience PE Class.  Download the Balanced Living House Information Guide for more details about the application process