10 Websites to Find Community and Connection

1. Meetup

The largest platform dedicated to bringing people together around shared interests.

Best for:

• Social groups

• Hiking clubs

• Book clubs

• Professional networking

• Personal development

• Local events

2. Eventbrite

Much more than ticket sales—it hosts thousands of free local events.

Best for:

• Workshops

• Community gatherings

• Networking events

• Classes

• Festivals

3. VolunteerMatch

Connects people with local nonprofits and service opportunities.

Best for:

• Giving back

• Meeting purpose-driven people

• Community service

• Skill-based volunteering

4. Nextdoor

Neighborhood-focused social platform.

Best for:

• Local recommendations

• Neighborhood events

• Community projects

• Meeting nearby residents

5. AARP Local Community Events

Not just for retirees—offers a wide variety of community activities.

Best for:

• Learning

• Social gatherings

• Wellness activities

• Volunteer opportunities

6. Facebook Events

One of the most active local event discovery platforms.

Best for:

• Festivals

• Concerts

• Networking

• Community gatherings

• Interest groups

7. Bumble For Friends (BFF)

Designed specifically to help adults make new friends.

Best for:

• New residents

• Empty nesters

• Friendship-building

• Social connection

8. Alignable

Community platform for local business owners and professionals.

Best for:

• Entrepreneurs

• Small business owners

• Referrals

• Networking

9. AllEvents.in

Aggregates local events from multiple sources.

Best for:

• Discovering activities

• Community events

• Arts and culture

• Classes and workshops

10. Catchafire

Connects skilled volunteers with nonprofits.

Best for:

• Professionals seeking purpose

• Career transitions

• Giving back

• Building community through service

Bonus Resources

Learning & Personal Growth

• Coursera Local Partnerships

• Toastmasters International

Outdoor & Adventure Communities

• Sierra Club Local Chapters

• The Conservation Volunteers Network

Professional Networking

• LinkedIn Events

• BNI (Business Network International)

A WTPR "Connection Challenge"

Encourage members to:

✅ Attend one local event this month
✅ Introduce themselves to three new people
✅ Join one volunteer activity
✅ Try one new interest group
✅ Invite a friend to come along

The goal isn't just to attend events—it's to build a life rich with relationships, purpose, belonging, and opportunities to share your gifts with others.

Connection doesn't happen by accident. It happens when we show up. 🌟🤝🌱