Free Rein: What is a "Gathering?"

A gathering is a Free Rein hosted social event. Basically, the gatherings provide members of Free Rein an opportunity to continue the conversations we have on the message board in real life.

Gatherings are informal ways to meet people, and expand your social circle. The meeting is not formally arranged, you will not have to introduce yourself, share about yourself, or speak if you do not want to.

Some members play dodge ball, kickball, or frisbee. Other members sit around in a circle and talk about life. Other people just hang out.

If you are a new member, the first thing you will do is find us. Then a program director will introduce himself or herself, and will have you read over the ground rules for the gatherings. Basically, the ground rules are the same as the Community Standards for the online community. In addition, there is a small sign in sheet where you can put a number, nickname, or anything to want to use to identify yourself.

Then, depending on what you would like, we can introduce you to everyone, or you can sit down and hang out, play dodge ball, or choose whatever you like. It’s super casual, and we try to minimize people feeling stressed out by formalities.

Just like the Online Community, there is a real emphasis on keeping the gatherings safe. One thing we have found is that dating and hooking-up really complicate things. We advocate for creating friendships only.

Finally, if you are thinking about coming to a gathering for your first time, please post about it. We will somehow manage making sure you are able to find us!

Got any other questions about what our gatherings are like? Just ask! Make a post about it and you can surely get several different responses and opinions….

Edited by Allusivekudos (08/31/04 05:13 PM)