Local Group Event Channels and Platforms
Words of Wisdom
The best event is the one members know about.
Use multiple channels, but keep information consistent.
Members should receive the same core details regardless of where they see an event.
What Success Looks Like
- Event information is easy to find
- Information is consistent across platforms
- Members know where to look for activities
- Events reach both existing and prospective members
Best Practices
- Use the communication channels your members actually use
- Keep event information consistent across platforms
- Designate a primary source of event information
- Update all channels when information changes
Common Pitfalls
- Relying on a single communication channel
- Maintaining conflicting event information
- Posting events too late
- Assuming members will search for information
Purpose
Explain how different communication channels are used to share and promote events.
Each platform serves a different purpose — together, they help members discover, understand, and attend activities.
Channel Overview
| Channel | Primary Use | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Newsletter | Primary event listing | Often the main source of truth |
| Reminders and highlights | Good for visibility and updates | |
| Website | Central reference | Stable, up-to-date information |
| Meetup | Discoverability | Reaches new and prospective members |
| Community engagement | Sharing, reminders, photos | |
| National Calendar | Broader visibility | For events of wider interest |
How Each Channel Is Used
Newsletter
- Often the primary or official event listing
- Provides advance notice and full details
- Should be consistent with all other platforms
Email (Non-Newsletter)
- Event reminders
- Highlighting upcoming activities
- Communicating updates or changes
Best practice:
- Keep messages short and clear and link to full event details when possible
Local Group Website
- Serves as a stable reference point
- Should include:
- Upcoming events
- Key details and links
- Keep content current and aligned with other platforms
Meetup
- Useful for discoverability and attracting new people
- Allows RSVPs and interaction
Facebook (Groups or Events)
- Supports community visibility and sharing
- Useful for:
- Reminders
- Photos
- Informal engagement
Best practice:
- Keep event details accurate
- Avoid relying on Facebook as the only source
National Event Calendar
- Provides visibility beyond the Local Group
- Useful for:
- Larger events
- Events of broader interest
Best practice:
- Submit events early
- Ensure information is complete and consistent
- Tools: National Event Calendar
Consistency Across Channels
All platforms should include the same core information:
- Date and time
- Location
- Description
- Contact details
If something changes:
- Update all platforms
- Clearly communicate the update
Choosing the Right Channels
Not every Local Group uses every platform.
| Situation | Recommended Channels |
|---|---|
| Regular communication | Newsletter + Email, Mensa Connect |
| Reaching new people | Meetup, Website, Mensa Connect |
| Community interaction | Facebook, Mensa Connect |
| Broad visibility | National Calendar |
Use the channels that work best for your group — consistency matters more than quantity.