I know a lot of folks engage with each other outside of the team but I wanted to inquire as to what if any events or activities members would like to see the team try to organize for everyone in the coming months and summer season. Historically the team takes a break during the summer months largely due to low participation that being the late June-August period. If people wanted to stay engaged and social during that time we could try and host a few gatherings.
We have done some organized bike rides to parks and ice cream parlors in the past, and a few socials hosted by members in their homes. Out-of-town events (hiking mountains, camping etc) seem less doable due to organizing transportation etc but I'm open to hearing what ideas everyone has. I've tossed some ideas I have been playing with below to get things started.
Low Cost and Local Activities: Picnics Day Hikes (Sea Wall, Cherry Blossom Tours, Queen E etc)
Nature Walks (Pacific Spirit, Reifel, Lighthouse Park) Beach Days Bike Tours
Community Events:
Gay Bingo Nights
Great ideas, most of these would benefit from a "lead person" to make it happen. Likely much easier if ideas get adopted by a team member rather than organised at the "exec" end. I would add to the list getting folks together informally to throw the ball around either at a pool or in the ocean throughout the summer. A few people could meet at Kits pool, English Bay etc. at an agreed upon time, as simple as that (minimum participation quite low with 2 people needed only!). There is room for this at Kits pool and lots of room in the ocean (Sunset Beach?). Would be fun, help with maintaining/developing skillsets and give us some public exposure. Followed by ice cream or else... lol. Oh, and food is always great!
Also thinking maybe a Potluck might be a decent idea for a social. I've been working on a dairy free cheese dip using yams and nutritional yeast I could bring. 🤔
Re: Gay Bingo I was considering reaching out to see if the team can help support Friends For Life and donate a small giftbag which would have a Team T-shirt, keychain etc in it to help spread word about our group.