

What we’re about
Do you want to overcome shyness and/or social anxiety? Do you want to practice social skills? Do you want to make good friends? Do you want to improve your life? Join this group!
This is a safe place with nonjudgemental people in a relaxed setting. There is nothing to hide or feel ashamed about. We all understand each other and can sympathize. This group is to help people make friends, practice social skills, and have fun while doing events.
We walk around parks, explore local events, chat over coffee/tea, go to restaurants, and do anything else that looks fun.
It’s okay if you don’t speak. It’s ok if you are nervous. Take the step forward to overcome it! Looking forward to sharing our stories and having a good time.
All events are governed by the official Meetup conduct policy:
https://meetu.ps/3kzYxt
Disclaimer
These events are for entertainment purposes only and we do not give out any medical or professional advice. Please do not make any medical decisions without consulting a licensed health care professional.
Upcoming events (4+)
See all- Meet Other Shy FriendsCafe Boba, Kentwood, MI
A comfortable space for quiet connections: Join us at Cafe Boba for a relaxed gathering designed especially for those of us who find social situations challenging. No pressure to be the center of attention - just a calm environment where you can connect at your own pace.
Good to know: This event is posted in 3 different West Michigan groups, so actual attendance will be higher than what's shown here.
Shy-friendly atmosphere: We keep conversations optional and group sizes small. Many of our regular attendees started out feeling nervous about socializing but found our supportive community the perfect place to gradually build confidence.
Easy arrival: Look for our table sign when you arrive - no need to announce yourself or introduce yourself to the whole group at once. The cafe staff knows us, so simply mention our Meetup group for a 10% discount on your order.
Take it slow: Feel free to listen more than you speak. Our members understand and respect different comfort levels with social interaction.
Community values: As part of the International Friend Connection network (active in over 50 cities), we're committed to creating safe spaces where everyone feels welcome, following Meetup's community guidelines.
Wondering if this is right for you? Many current members once asked the same question!
Visit https://internationalfriendconnection.com/ for more information, or message us with any concerns - we're happy to answer questions before you decide to attend.
Please watch our free classes and subscribe to our YouTube channel where you can learn our original and in-depth program to overcome social anxiety, learn to connect with other people, and live the life that you deserve.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pVhrbTYkCPs&list=PL7dZ0pbrV6fTSANlyWr58fqm-Wejf0OjT - 🧑‍🎨 The Shy-Friendly Hangout: Coloring & Various ActivitiesSchuler's Books and Music, Grand Rapids, MI
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/
"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)
- Meet Other Shy FriendsCafe Boba, Kentwood, MI
A comfortable space for quiet connections: Join us at Cafe Boba for a relaxed gathering designed especially for those of us who find social situations challenging. No pressure to be the center of attention - just a calm environment where you can connect at your own pace.
Good to know: This event is posted in 3 different West Michigan groups, so actual attendance will be higher than what's shown here.
Shy-friendly atmosphere: We keep conversations optional and group sizes small. Many of our regular attendees started out feeling nervous about socializing but found our supportive community the perfect place to gradually build confidence.
Easy arrival: Look for our table sign when you arrive - no need to announce yourself or introduce yourself to the whole group at once. The cafe staff knows us, so simply mention our Meetup group for a 10% discount on your order.
Take it slow: Feel free to listen more than you speak. Our members understand and respect different comfort levels with social interaction.
Community values: As part of the International Friend Connection network (active in over 50 cities), we're committed to creating safe spaces where everyone feels welcome, following Meetup's community guidelines.
Wondering if this is right for you? Many current members once asked the same question!
Visit https://internationalfriendconnection.com/ for more information, or message us with any concerns - we're happy to answer questions before you decide to attend.
Please watch our free classes and subscribe to our YouTube channel where you can learn our original and in-depth program to overcome social anxiety, learn to connect with other people, and live the life that you deserve.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pVhrbTYkCPs&list=PL7dZ0pbrV6fTSANlyWr58fqm-Wejf0OjT