Purpose

Provide a variety of activity options that support different levels and styles of member engagement.

Why Variety Matters

Many local group activities naturally center around food—and for good reason. Food is universal, accessible, and works well across a wide range of ages and interests. In a group that may include everyone from young children to older adults, shared meals are one of the easiest ways to bring people together.

However, a strong activity calendar goes beyond this foundation.

Offering a wider range of events helps reach more members, encourages broader participation, and creates multiple entry points for engagement.

Types of Activities

A balanced calendar may include:

Social gatherings: dinners, lunches, brunches
Active events: mini-golf, bowling, sports, outdoor activities
Experiential outings: theme parks, go-karts, performances
Creative activities: crafts, art, writing, hands-on workshops
Intellectual engagement: book clubs, discussion groups, speakers, museum visits
Casual meetups: movies, concerts, informal gatherings

Almost any activity can be a successful event—what matters most is creating opportunities for members to connect.

Low-Commitment Activities (Easy to Join)

These are ideal for new members, observers, or those with limited time.

Social & Casual

Coffee meetups
Casual lunches or dinners
Walks in a park
“Drop-in” hangouts

Passive / Flexible Engagement

Monthly newsletter highlights
Polls or quick surveys
“Question of the week” discussions (email or online)

Virtual Options

Informal Zoom hangouts
Chat-based discussions
Watch parties

👉 Goal: Make participation feel easy, optional, and welcoming

Medium-Engagement Activities

For members who want some structure but not a major commitment.

Interest-Based Gatherings

Book clubs
Hobby groups (crafts, games, tech, etc.)
Discussion groups

Learning & Sharing

Guest speakers
Skill-sharing sessions
Workshops or mini-trainings

Community Activities

Group outings (museums, events, local attractions)
Volunteering (one-time or occasional)

👉 Goal: Build connection and consistency without pressure

High-Engagement Activities

For members who want to be more involved or take on leadership roles.

Leadership & Organization

Event planning teams
Committee participation
Local leadership roles

Recurring Programs

Regularly scheduled meetups (weekly/monthly)
Structured series (courses, multi-part workshops)

Larger Initiatives

Conferences or major events
Partnerships with other groups
Community projects

👉 Goal: Create ownership and deeper connection

Inclusive & Accessible Activity Design

Every activity should consider different needs and comfort levels.

Offer both in-person and virtual options when possible
Choose accessible locations (mobility, transportation)
Vary times and days to reach different schedules
Be clear about:
- Physical activity level
- Cost (if any)
- Social expectations

👉 Clear expectations reduce barriers to participation

Rotating & Mixing Activity Types

A healthy group offers a mix over time, not just one type.

Example monthly mix:

1 social event
1 learning or discussion event
1 low-key or virtual option

👉 This helps engage different members without overloading any one group

Member-Led Ideas

Encourage members to shape the community.

Invite suggestions regularly
Make it easy to host (low barriers, clear guidelines)
Support first-time organizers with simple templates

👉 People are more engaged when they help create the experience

Recognition & Follow-Up

Activities don’t end when the event does.

Thank organizers and participants
Share highlights or photos (when appropriate)
Invite feedback (quick and simple)
Suggest related or next-step activities

Simple Planning Framework

When planning an activity, ask:

Who is this for? (new, casual, active members?)
What level of commitment does it require?
Is it accessible and clearly described?
Does it add variety to our current offerings?