Down between Delridge and 35th SW in West Seattle there's a bit of magic occurring. At the Valtera Townhomes a community is being born. Here, in a cul-de-sac of brand new duplex-type town houses, an unlikely collection of new home owners are gathering to discuss who will start a community bulletin board, who will host the next joint meeting, and how to best ensure that garbage or noise from one home doesn't negatively impact neighbors.

Part of the reason for this sense of responsibility and respect for one another comes from the way families come to know about the "for sale" properties. For many of them, this is a first home. They'd had little hope of being able to move from renters to owners, given their income levels. But the builder of these units has joined in partnership with Homestead Community Land Trust, Habitat for Humanity, and the City of Seattle to make the homes affordable.

For the 18 families who have made purchases so far (out of a total of 30 who may) this has meant home ownership and hope for a brighter life. They look with appreciation at the opportunity to take on the accompanying responsibilities. And they talk openly about how policies they are setting at the Home Owners' Association meetings will affect future folks when they move it. It's not enough to simply think of "I got here first, what will benefit me", and that's heartwarming - and a bit of magic.

This summer there'll be garage sales and celebrations. A Block Watch is being formed, and trust will grow. In months to come there'll be more sharing of difficulties and cares. Personal Safety Nets will be broadened to include neighbors and wider possibilities for supportiveness. Stop by ... you'll be welcome!