It was a no-brainer. From the get-go, the founders of Aleph Springs knew what sort of neighborhood they intended to shape.

“We all agreed on what we cared about most,” says Laura Robin, a partner who chaired the initial meeting. “We wanted to create an environmentally-sensitive community that would promote multi-generational interaction.” says Robin. “In our society, with so many extended families separated by distance, we’ve lost something valuable. At Aleph Springs, we’re trying to recapture that.”

The neighborhood, which comprises the Havurah Shir Hadash synagogue, is expected to be particularly attractive to active retirees who see themselves aging in place with the support of a community.

For Stan Shulster, another founder and a member of the Havurah, the concept has a special resonance. More than 25 years ago, while serving on the board of directors for Temple Isaiah in Contra Costa County, Calif., Shulster was sold on a similar idea that was being discussed.

“At the time, I’d always hoped to have the opportunity to be part of something like this.”

Shulster can imagine children and elders being part of each other’s daily lives. For instance, he envisions Sunday school children crossing the lawn to share craft projects or songs with their “adopted” bubbes and zaydes (grandmothers and grandfathers).

Environmental sensitivity is an equally important value for the development group, says Robin.

“We decided right away that we would preserve a lot of green space and take full advantage of both passive and active solar technology,” she says.

Plans for the community feature a “village green” and a community garden; and the living areas of the homes will be oriented to the south, providing stunning views of the Siskiyou Mountains.

The homes are designed to accommodate solar panels so owners can be less dependent on electricity from the grid.

Even before the first home was in construction, Aleph Springs broke ground for a 2,000 sq. ft. bioswale that will help purify storm water and runoff from nearby paved areas.

“Being a part of a Jewish community that believes strongly in protecting and preserving our planet, it’s only natural that Aleph Springs should be the best possible example,” says Robin.