Our Emerging Normal: Results from New Dream's COVID-19 Survey

Blog   |   June 10, 2020

In April, we asked our audience for thoughts and feedback on how the COVID-19 pandemic was informing what they prioritize and consume. The feedback was deeply insightful. 

How to Protect Ourselves by Protecting Each Other

Blog   |   by Christina Lewis   |   April 26, 2020

COVID-19 has ripped through our society and exposed us at the seams. Forced to confront glaring discrepancies, we now see how vulnerable our society really is. What will get us through? 

Challenge Toolkit: Share With Others

Custom Pages   |   March 15, 2018

Governments Promote Planned Obsolescence, Too

Blog   |   by Addison Del Mastro   |   September 17, 2012

Government policies that push people to replace their “outdated” stuff can result in significant resource waste.

Making the Potluck a Success in Today’s World

Blog   |   by Dale S. Brown   |   February 7, 2012

Can we reinvent the potluck so it can work in today’s busy, ingredient-conscious world?

Great Summer Reads: Recommendations from New Dream's Board

Blog   |   by New Dream   |   June 18, 2013

We asked our Board members for their favorite recent books on consumerism, community, and more. Check out their diverse and inspiring picks.

Maria and Reggie's Relaxed, Budget-Friendly Wedding

Blog   |   by Edna Rienzi   |   February 9, 2015

In the Real Celebrations series, SoKind asks registry users to share a bit about their celebrations. Read about how Maria and Reggie focused on what was important to them, and allowed others to step in and use their natural strengths to help the couple celebrate their big day.

What Happened to Self-Reliance and the Do-It-Yourself Ethic? (Part 2 of 2)

Blog   |   by Addison Del Mastro   |   July 6, 2012

Self-reliance and the “can-do” spirit aren't gone. They're just dormant, drowned out by a fast-paced lifestyle and cheap consumer goods.

TIPS: Reader Submissions: How I Simplify the Holidays

Resources   |   by New Dream   |   December 20, 2011

We asked our readers for their ideas for simplifying the holidays, and the response was overwhelming! Here are some of our favorite tips.

Rethinking Work: Replacing the Treadmill With Time, Flexibility, and Happiness

Blog   |   by Hayley Schultz   |   February 27, 2013

The reason we work is simple: we need to pay for the things that keep us fed, safe, and comfortable. But do we really need to work as much as we do?

Replacing the Value of "More" with "Enough

Blog   |   by Rob Dietz and Dan O'Neill   |   October 11, 2013

How can we overcome the dominance of consumer culture in America? Here are some ideas for getting the transition under way.

The “Gendering” of Our Kids’ Toys, and What We Can Do About It

Blog   |   by Elizabeth Sweet   |   October 7, 2011

On a quest to find a gender-neutral toy for her daughter, an inquisitive mother delves into the magical history of pink and blue branding.

Living the Dream: Brooke Moore, Minimalist and No-Regrets Purger of "Stuff

Blog   |   by Edna Rienzi   |   March 25, 2016

A few trips to drop off stuff at her local thrift store became the first steps in what would become a beautiful journey to minimalist living.

Connection Amid Crisis

Blog   |   by New Dream   |   March 31, 2020

Like you, the New Dream team has been busy these past few weeks transforming our daily lives, taking in information, and trying to make thoughtful choices under these urgent and significant circumstances.

Youth Perspective: Why We Need Equity and Empathy to Move Our Communities Forward

Blog   |   by New Dream   |   April 16, 2019

Former Youth Fellow Josmar Torres talks about the challenges facing his community and the important roles that empathy and political change can play in creating a brighter, more equitable future.