Ben started building as a disaster relief volunteer after Hurricane Katrina. He also helped after the 2010 Haitian Earthquake and Superstorm Sandy. He followed these experiences up with several natural building workshops. He is a Certified Passive House Craftsperson and a Living Futures Accredited Professional. Ben spends his free time biking around Denver and hanging out with his family, including his young daughter.

Frank started working as a carpenter while in high school. He graduated with a degree in Civil Engineering and a minor in Architectural studies. A Natural Building Intensive course at Yestermorrow Design Build School in Vermont set him up for a move to Colorado and an apprenticeship with Artesano Plasters. Frank is now a guest instructor with Yestermorrow and Community Rebuilds. When he isn’t building, Frank likes to snuggle cats, spend time by a fire with a game of stump, go camping, hike, and mountain bike.

Cheryl grew up in Florida and studied in Environmental Science in college. She got started in the construction industry with an internship through Community Rebuilds, building a straw bale home in Moab. She followed this up with an Earthen Building course in Nicaragua. Cheryl is on the board of the Natural Building Alliance. Being a tradesperson runs in the family: her grandfather designed and built houses. Most weekends, you’ll find Cheryl outside rock climbing, a hobby that has taken her to many beautiful and inspiring places.

Sam is intrigued by craft in many forms, whether building homes or creating art. Originally from New Mexico, he has lived in all the four corner states. He graduated from Arizona State University with a master’s degree in Civil and Sustainable Engineering. Additionally, he studied sustainable building and design at Yestermorrow School of Design and completed an internship with Community Rebuilds. He strives to make the world a more beautiful place. In his spare time he enjoys skiing, watching soccer and taking naps with his cat.

Marj comes to building through being a regular member and participant at Common Earth events and work parties over the last several years. She also spent time rebuilding in Mississippi after Hurricane Katrina. Before joining our crew, she worked in a horse stable for years, also taking lessons and boarding her own horses there. Her dream is to own her own land and stables.

Sprocket is our part time office/job site dog who spends the rest of his time barking at passersby and napping on the couch. His specialties are really enthusiastic greetings and play fighting.