Planning Your First Activity

Words of Wisdom

Your first event does not need to be large, elaborate, or highly organized.

The goal is simply to create an opportunity for members to connect.

What Success Looks Like

• Members know about the activity
• At least one meaningful connection occurs
• The activity is enjoyable and manageable to host
• You feel comfortable doing it again

Best Practices

• Start small
• Choose a simple format
• Focus on conversation and connection
• Build on what works

Common Pitfalls

• Waiting for the perfect event
• Overplanning
• Assuming a large turnout is required
• Trying to do too much at once

Purpose

Help volunteers plan and host a simple first activity without feeling overwhelmed.

What This Looks Like in Practice

Planning your first activity can feel intimidating, but it does not need to be complicated. Start small, focus on connection, and build from there.

Start Small

Your first event does not need to be complicated.

Many successful Local Group activities are simple gatherings that require little planning.

Good first events include:

• Coffee meetup
• Casual lunch or dinner
• Games at a café
• Games at someone's home
• Informal meet-and-greet
• Gathering before or after an existing community event

A simple event that happens is better than an ambitious event that never gets scheduled.

Let Members Know Who You Are

Members are more likely to attend activities when they know who is organizing them.

Ways to build familiarity include:

• Introducing yourself in the newsletter
• Attending existing Local Group activities
• Participating in online discussions
• Reaching out to members when appropriate
• Welcoming new members

People often attend because of the connections they expect to make, not because of the activity itself.

Common Concerns

Concern	Response
What if no one shows up?	A low turnout does not mean the activity was a failure. Consider: Trying again Adjusting the day, time, or location Promoting it earlier Personally inviting a few members Building participation often takes time.
What if I'm not an event planner?	Most Local Group activities require only: A place to meet A time to gather A way to let members know Focus on creating opportunities for connection rather than managing a complicated event.
What if I'm too busy?	Keep your involvement manageable. You can: Host occasional activities Organize simple gatherings Share responsibility with others Start with just a few events each year Consistency matters more than frequency.

Remember

The goal is not to create a perfect event.

The goal is to help members connect.

Related

• Ideas for Local Group Activities
• Designing Your Event Mix
• Member Engagement
• Supporting Remote Members
• Supporting Virtual Engagement