Getting your Local Conversation online

What platform will you use to stay connected with others in your Local Conversation? Below are a few ideas. This isn't an exhaustive list, yet it is based on what we've seen succeed with the 230-plus Local Conversations that have formed since 2018:

• In-person: We at Strong Towns really believe in the power of meeting up, having a conversation, and making change together in person. In fact, the Local Conversations that have been most effective at effecting change in their cities all have this one thing in common: they connect not just online but in person.
• Facebook Group: A presence on Facebook is something else many of our most effective Local Conversations have in common. What Facebook has going for it that other platforms don't—including Slack (see below)—is that people are already there. Many would-be advocates are hesitant to sign up for a new, unfamiliar platform. Want to go this route? Here is some information on how to start a Facebook group. We recommend giving it an easily recognizable title (e.g., Strong St. Louis, Strong Indianapolis, etc.).
• Instagram: There are now dozens of Local Conversations on Instagram. Many of them are even connected with one another on the back end of Instagram, sharing tips and tricks. Instagram isn't a great platform for conversation, but it can be a tremendous tool for broadcasting ideas, showing the visual impact of the Suburban Development Pattern, showcasing group activities, and much more.
• Slack: You can start a channel for your city, town, or region on the Strong Towns Slack board. Anyone is welcome to start a channel: just use the prefix “#place_[your region name]” so we can keep things organized. It’s a great way to gather your neighbors for ongoing communication. We've created a guide for doing so with the Strong Towns Slack platform
• Other Online Platforms: We've seen Local Conversations use other online platforms to stay connected. All have their benefits, though many require people to sign up for a new platform, a potential hurdle. Some Local Conversations are organized using NextDoor.com or Google Groups. Others use an email group. Discord is also becoming quite popular, though users tend to skew quite young. Other Local Conversations use a dedicated website—ReForm Shreveport is a good example (though note that it's on Facebook as well)—or a blog, such as this one from Strong Towns Sioux Falls on Medium.

Remember: there’s no reason your group can’t exist across multiple platforms! Start with one and add another if your group expresses a desire for another form of communication.