Purpose

Provide a מגוון (variety) of activity ideas that support different levels of member engagement.

Guiding principle: Members engage in different ways—and all forms of participation matter. Activities should offer multiple ways to connect, from low-effort to highly involved.

Strong local groups:

Offer a range of activity types
Support different engagement levels
Prioritize accessibility and clarity
Empower members to participate in their own way

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?