🧑‍🎨 The Shy-Friendly Hangout: Coloring & Various Activities

Hi Friends,
Wednesday will be our last event for now. I need to take a break.

We will have our regular event but I'll also be having a discussion on why we are building what we are building and why we do the things we do.

For those looking for support on Wednesdays, Mason Hutter has a Neurodivergent Support group every Wednesday from 5pm to 6pm. Please call him at (616) 600-2845 or grab the info here:
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1w3Ngu41eOS2jB_uBviPxQzGbuUWs04Bp/view?usp=sharing

Find comfort in creativity: Join us at Schuler Books Cafe for a low-pressure social experience designed with shy and socially anxious people in mind. Having an activity to focus on makes socializing so much easier!

IMPORTANT TO KNOW: Many people come once, get disappointed that they don't make a lot of friends on their first visit, and then never come back. Everyone who becomes a regular always ends up making a lot of friends.

How it works: Bring your favorite coloring books, art supplies, or any activity you enjoy (Nintendo Switch, card games, knitting - anything goes!). The activity gives you something to concentrate on while conversation happens naturally around you - no awkward silence, no pressure to maintain eye contact or constant chat.

Shy-friendly promises:

• No introductions to the whole group required
• Come and go as you please
• Participate in conversation only when you feel comfortable
• Activities provide a natural buffer and conversation starter

Too anxious to walk in alone? We understand completely. Message us when you arrive, and a friendly greeter will meet you at your car to walk in with you. Many of our regular members started this way!

Everyone welcome: While this event is designed with shy folks in mind, we welcome anyone who enjoys a calm, judgment-free environment. The West MI Social Club from Facebook will be joining us too.

What to bring: Your favorite coloring books and supplies (or Schuler's sells these if needed). Feel free to bring other activities instead - whatever helps you feel comfortable.

Look for: The Meetup sign in the cafe area.

Take your journey further: Discover our original and in-depth program for overcoming social anxiety and building meaningful connections through our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pVhrbTYkCPs&list=PL7dZ0pbrV6fTSANlyWr58fqm-Wejf0OjT

Questions? Visit our website: https://internationalfriendconnection.com/

We aim to keep these events low-pressure, respectful, and welcoming.
Please review our event guidelines here: https://ifcgood.com/policy

"I sat in my car for 20 minutes before my first event, but then I never missed an event for years. The coloring and activities made all the difference." - Krystle (our former host who moved away in 2022)