Humanity today faces overwhelming challenge and unprecedented opportunity. Advances in technology are reshaping society, dissolving boundaries and fostering new patterns of communication, competition and cooperation among people around the world.

Every organization must adapt to an increasingly complex, knowledge-intensive, relationship-based world. Those willing to take risks lead change rather than resist it.

Every field of human activity - from health care, education and religion to economics, commerce and governance - is busy reinventing itself, to provide a new foundation for the future. Innovation and creativity are required, not optional.

What once was unimaginable - what we could only dream - may now be possible, if we can evolve organizations and institutions as dynamic and diverse as the emerging world of the 21st century. Organizations that are equitable, inclusive, flexible and resilient, based on our highest aspirations for ourselves, our children and all future generations.

In many different fields and diverse communities, people are working toward that end. Those involved in such efforts seek greater connection. The time is now right for individuals and institutions, around the world, to form and bring to life a more cohesive global network dedicated to transforming and strengthening our organizations and institutions, guided by our most deeply held democratic, ethical and spiritual values.

We call that network Terra Civitas, which loosely translates as "citizens of the Earth". We envision Terra Civitas as an expanding cluster of self-organizing, participant-governed entities, called Commons, designed to be both independent and interrelated.

Together, the Terra Civitas Commons will comprise a multi-faceted web of collaborative learning, innovation and action. Individually, they will be fully self-governing, free to pursue their distinctive purpose in any way consistent with the shared purpose and principles.

Terra Civitas comes into being with creation of the Chaordic Commons, a 501c3 nonprofit organization which supersedes The Chaordic Alliance. The Chaordic Commons is open to all who subscribe to its purpose and principles in conducting the organization's activities. Those who join are called Owning Members.

You are invited to help form the Chaordic Commons and breathe life into Terra Civitas. Its success will depend on the participation and support of a wide range of visionary, caring and committed individuals and organizations from every country, field and sector. Join us and help shape a continually evolving network of individuals and organizations dedicated to cultivating wisdom and transforming our organizations and institutions!