Local Group Events and Activities
Purpose
Provide an overview of how Local Groups use events and activities to support member engagement, connection, and community.
The Role of Events
Events are one of the primary ways members connect, participate, and build community.
Events help Local Groups:
- Welcome new members
- Build relationships
- Provide intellectual and social engagement
- Encourage ongoing participation
Events are important, but they are only one part of a broader member engagement strategy.
Activity Variety
Members have different interests, schedules, and comfort levels. A strong activity program offers a variety of ways to participate.
This may include:
- Social activities
- Intellectual activities
- Active or experiential activities
- Virtual activities
- Casual and recurring gatherings
See Ideas for Local Group Activities.
Engagement Levels
Not all activities require the same level of commitment.
Some members prefer low-pressure opportunities to connect, while others seek deeper involvement and leadership opportunities.
See Engagement Levels Overview.
In-Person and Virtual Activities
Not all engagement happens in person.
Virtual activities:
- Increase accessibility
- Support remote and homebound members
- Provide flexible participation options
Virtual and in-person activities should complement one another rather than compete.
See Supporting Virtual Engagement.
Planning a Balanced Calendar
A strong event calendar:
- Offers a variety of activity types
- Includes different engagement levels
- Provides regular opportunities to connect
- Communicates events clearly and consistently
See Designing Your Event Mix and Event Calendar Best Practices.
Creating Welcoming Experiences
Events are most effective when they are welcoming and accessible.
- Provide clear expectations
- Reduce barriers to participation
- Support first-time attendees
- Foster connection among participants
See Welcoming New Members and New Member Events.
Roles and Collaboration
Events are often a shared responsibility.
Common contributors include:
- ExComm and event hosts
- Membership Officer
- Communications volunteers and editors
- Area Coordinators
Local Groups may divide responsibilities differently based on their size and structure.