Building Community: Part 2

I can’t emphasize this part enough: one of the most important aspects of building community is PARTICIPATING.

I could never have built all of this if I hadn’t shown up to other events to learn and meet folks. Showing up, and participating, helps every community grow and function. If you’re new, chat with the organizers and ask how you can help. Many hands make light work, and every time someone helps my job is easier.

For example some events require elaborate set up, some need extra hands to offer drinks or snacks, sometimes there’s jobs like coat-check or bartender that need volunteers, or folks to help newbies get oriented. It’s different in every space but offer your services, it’s a great way to get to know the existing community, and contribute behind the scenes to the magic.

One of my favourite offers of help is when people say “if there’s anything that you need the day of, don’t be afraid to text and ask!” This has GREATLY reduced the amount of frazzled running around I have to do the day of an event.

Now when I realize I brought tea and coffee but forgot sugar I can text Anna to pick some up on her way. And when we realize we’re short a few blankets I know I can text Eden to bring some from home. I’ve messaged Peach to bring recycling bags when I realized the venue didn’t have any, and famously at the last event when we had a detour and changed locations last minute, I texted Rose to stop by Canadian Tire (iykyk) and grab a bunch of air marrresses.

Being able to rely on my community brings down my stress levels so much, I know they’ll hold me if I fall!

Don’t underestimate how important SHOWING UP is. It’s easy to stay home, sit this one out, but parties and communities don’t happen if nobody shows up. Likewise, every party needs Firestarters! People who jump in and play, get the ball rolling, strip down to their lingerie to break the ice or get things started with a spanking. Parties need volunteers for games and people who are brave enough to get the action started. Firestarting in this way is an excellent way to contribute, it makes events memorable, and makes everyone else feel comfortable.

Another way to help is to promote spaces you love, invite others you think would fit in, help the community grow. When I think of the beautiful connections that were only made because good people invited good people it warms my hostess heart.

Show up, participate, contribute, be brave, help things go! If you love a community help it sustain and grow.

(Read Building Community: Part 1 here)

Curious girls Lexie & Piper watch Kitten, Dee & Alexx - Sapphic Slumber Party #11