For any range of topics, lighthearted to serious, hobbies and games to helping and engaging with community matters. Regarding reach, I mean what ways may be used alongside word of mouth, as I honestly don’t hear people talk about groups they’re in (besides sports/bands) all that much.
I think posters/flyers are one of the most powerful ways to reach people in a local area, you’ve got to be in the local area to see them, right?
Another way to spread the word can be via the internet, Facebook is god awful, but a lot of communities will have something akin to a noticeboard that is another effective way to get the word out.
Some cities have gaming stores with active groups and tournaments and learn-to-play events. Public libraries often have a calendar of community events. Restaurants sometimes have them, too. Community theater. Bridge clubs. Churches often have secular events like concerts, games, fairs, book clubs, etc. Maker spaces. Community college adult education. Hobby classes like woodworking and pottery.
These are all great examples. And sometimes, you just start your own, like inviting a few neighbors to a cookout.
Appreciate the advice for finding groups! However, my question is more about getting them started and handling outreach to keep them going.
This does provide some insight into some venues that may be good for them, so thanks!
Sorry, my reading comprehension took a little vacation there!
Start offline - establish a location, time/schedule, snacks, etc. Advertise online (e.g. craigslist, local forums, via social media such as with school, city, library groups), put up flyers in advance (e.g. weekly starting MM/DD/YY. Try to find a group of core members because someone will need to keep track of things
snacks
never underestimate the power of punch and pie
found the college rpg group by seeing someone reading a source book in the common area of the student union.
Start paying attention to posters that get stapled around.
Or start stapling posters places.
offline groups will be monitored, it will take the state, or state friendly associates, manpower to provide that level of surveillance, but as we saw in the soviet union, when there’s no hope, and nothing else to strive for, watching your neighbor becomes entertainment and employment. i’m not saying do nothing and stay home in the dark, i’m just saying be very aware of the universe we are all going to find ourselves living in a year from now.
