Building Communities
Published 03 August 2023
Written by Amy Willis Foreword by Sam Kirby
Photography: @ Thriday
In 2019, Amy Willis started The Lunch Crew in response to the growing amount of disconnection, burnout and mental health challenges she saw developing [in particular] in the workplace.
The idea was simple - each month, they partnered with local restaurants and cafes to host lunch events with the simple aim of improving wellbeing by creating a platform for people to break away from their daily routine, connect with each others, and enjoy a meal together.
So successful was the concept that it saw up to 60 people regularly attending.
Fast forward one global pandemic later, and The Lunch Crew has re-launched because, as Amy aptly puts it, 'people need community now more than ever' - Sam Kirby.
In a world that often seems to be fast-paced and individualistic, the importance of community cannot be overstated.
As human beings we have a rich history that demonstrates living in, or being surrounded by, a supportive community or a like minded group of people, is one of our most basic needs. In fact it was a matter of survival in our earliest years.
Can you imagine how things would have worked out for the human race if we tried to be solo hunters and gatherers?
Sure, things have certainly changed over time but our fundamental human need for connection has not. As an adult in 2023 however, this basic need can feel more like a daunting task.
In his book ‘Lost Connections’ Johann Hari aptly describes how “Loneliness hangs over our culture like a thick smog”, attributing it to our diminishing connection with others.
Community can take a lot of different forms, from close friendship circles, to family, from business networking, to sporting or other hobby clubs. No matter what type of community you find yourself in you’ll know it’s the right one for you when:
You have a sense of belonging
You can collaborate and grow
You feel supported
Ultimately, the purpose of community is to enrich not only your life but also the lives of those around you.
So, in an effort to combat that 'metaphorical smog', we've collated a selection of helpful tips on how to find a community that resonates with you (as well as listing a few ideas to get you started).
1. Join Interest-Based Groups and Communities
One of the best ways to meet like-minded people is by joining interest-based groups and communities. What are your hobbies and passions? seek out clubs, organisations, or classes that match! Joining in activities aligned with your interests means you already have a common ground for building connections.
2. Attend Niche Events
Find one or two events that interest you, and book your tickets right away. Commit! And if you choose something with a niche – such as a games night or a watercolour workshop – chances are you’ll meet people who enjoy the same things you do. Find events that have an in-built element of socialising, so you’ll get a chance to talk to others in a non-awkward way. And start to go regularly, so you see the same faces. Maybe you’ll feel too shy to introduce yourself the first time, but try again the next month....And if going alone is not something you feel comfortable to do, invite a friend or family member to come along with you.
3. Volunteer for a Cause
Volunteering has so many benefits. You contribute to a meaningful cause, it’s good for your mental health, it boosts your resumé, you’ll empower others in your local community, and not least of all, you’ll make connections with a whole group of other people who share a passion for making a difference. Pick local volunteer opportunities that resonate with you, such as environmental initiatives, animal shelters, or community service projects. There's so many opportunities locally that there's a whole TFG online article about it, but for a great place to start keep an eye out on Seek’s volunteer page, or Do Something’s website, or simply reach out to a local charity.
4. Embrace the Power of Networking
Networking isn’t just limited to professional settings. You can engage in networking opportunities by attending industry events, joining online professional communities, or participating in career-oriented workshops. Expanding your professional network increases the chances of finding individuals with whom you can develop genuine friendships beyond the confines of work.
5. Utilise Online Platforms and Apps
In the digital age, online platforms and apps are convenient ways to connect with others. Join social networking groups, online communities, or forums that align with your interests or goals. Platforms like Meetup, Facebook Groups, or specialised friendship apps can help you discover events and groups centred around shared activities or hobbies. Use these platforms as a means to initiate conversations and meet new people.
6. Take the Initiative
Making friends requires taking the initiative and being proactive. Attend social gatherings or parties and engage in conversations with individuals you find interesting. Reach out and contact acquaintances or colleagues for a coffee or lunch outing. You might be surprised to find so many others looking for new friendships, so taking the first step can lead to rewarding connections.
@amywillisconsultancy | amywillis.com.au/
A GOOD PLACE TO start?
NICHE EVENTS
There's a few too many to mention here, but keep an eye on TFG's online calendar; we keep it full of great local events and activities where you can meet new people.
BUSINESS @ DUSK
This is Toowoomba’s main business networking event run by the Chamber of Commerce. Each month has a new venue and a new guest speaker, who touches on their experience running a business in Toowoomba, and what is happening in their industry. The events are run once a month on a Wednesday evening, and the venue changes each time. Bring your business cards!
Community Gardens
Places like the Toowoomba Community Gardens are a great way to find other people who love to do the same things as you. Plus, you'll be growing some amazingly fresh produce and doing something good for the environment all at the same time.
MEETUP
If you’ve moved around a bit, you’ve possibly already come across MeetUp. It’s an international website that encourages groups of like-minded people to meet up in person. In Toowoomba there’s a photography group, a 40+ group, a social group, an entrepreneurs group, and many more. And if none of those groups interest you, start your own!
BNI - Toowoomba Range
A networking based community, BNI is specifically designed for collaboration, round-tabling ideas, keeping each other accountable and helping each other achieve their goals. It's more structured in its approach, but that doesn't mean it isn't fun - it just means you're guaranteed to have a common interest and topics to talk about; so it's easy to see why people quickly make friends.
DOG PARK
If you've ever been to Queen's park on a Saturday or Sunday morning (or in fact any of the dog-friendly parks around Toowoomba) you'll know that having a pet is a surefire way to make friends and meet new people. We're not suggesting you buy a dog for that reason, but hey, if you do buy one, you also now have a dog - so that's a double win right! (just remember a pet is a long term committment and one to be taken seriously).
A FEW OTHER IDEAS
Battlestation’s game nights
Tinker’s workshops
Language workshops at Alliance Française or Bonjour Toowoomba
Cooking classes at Willow Vale Cooking School
Trivia nights
Sports - there’s lots of courts in town that offer social tennis, such as the Holy Name Tennis Club, which calls themselves the friendliest tennis group in Australia.
There’s also plenty of playgroups, fitness classes and other activities to tap into. Keep an eye on our calendar, as we’re always posting new ones!
By no means is this a long list (we could probably fill the entire edition with how many great places there are just locally. This is simply a few ideas based off our own experience to get you started. If you know of any others, or have a group you'd like to promote, reach out and we'll be sure to add it.
