Local Group Events and Activities
Purpose
Provide an overview of how Local Groups design, organize, and support events as part of member engagement.
Events are one of the primary ways members connect, participate, and build community.
Guiding Principle
A strong event program offers variety, flexibility, and clear entry points for different types of members.
No single type of event works for everyone.
The Role of Events
Events help Local Groups:
- Welcome new members
- Build relationships and community
- Provide intellectual and social engagement
- Support ongoing participation
Events are one of many ways members engage — not the only way.
Virtual Engagement
Not all engagement happens in person.
Virtual activities are an important part of a strong event ecosystem. They:
- Provide access for remote or homebound members
- Offer lower-barrier ways to participate
- Create flexible options for different schedules and comfort levels
Virtual and in-person activities should be viewed as complementary, not competing.
See:
Types of Activities
Local Groups benefit from offering a range of activities.
See:
Engagement Levels
Not all activities require the same level of involvement.
See:
Planning and Calendar
A strong event calendar:
- Offers a mix of activity types
- Includes different engagement levels
- Provides clear and consistent information
To design a balanced and sustainable mix of activities, see:
See also:
Communication and Promotion
Events should be easy to find and understand.
- Use multiple communication channels
- Keep information consistent across platforms
See:
Creating Welcoming Experiences
Events are most effective when they are welcoming and accessible.
- Provide clear expectations
- Reduce barriers to participation
- Support first-time attendees
See:
Roles and Collaboration
Events are a shared responsibility across multiple roles.
Common contributors include:
- ExComm and individual hosts (planning and logistics)
- Membership Officer (member experience and outreach)
- Communications / Editor (promotion)
- Area Coordinators (local events)
Local Groups may divide responsibilities differently.
What Success Looks Like
- Members can easily find and understand events
- A variety of activities are available
- Both in-person and virtual options are available
- New members feel comfortable participating
- Participation reflects different engagement styles
Success is not measured only by attendance, but by connection and accessibility.
Key Takeaway
A strong event program is not defined by a single event or format.
It is defined by offering multiple ways for members to connect — in person or virtually, and on their own terms.