If you’ve never heard of user groups, you probably have many questions. User
groups offer benefits to everyone — for people who are new to computers, people
who are veterans in the technology industry, and for everyone in between.

I’ve never heard of user groups. What are they?

User groups are organizations, created by people interested in sharing information
about their computers and what they can accomplish with the help of digital
technology. User groups are about the technology, but also about the friendships
that result. Over 700 user groups worldwide have registered with Apple —
some with fewer than 30 members, others with over 1,000.

What benefits do user groups offer?

User groups help members with technical questions, give honest advice on software
selection, and provide a friendly environment where people can learn more
about their computers. Many groups offer classes, one-on-one support, monthly
meetings, an informative newsletter, member discounts, special interest groups,
and of course, the inevitable camaraderie that all Mac users share. Larger
groups offer extensive training programs, computer labs, and resource libraries.

What happens at user group meetings?

Meetings vary depending on the group and the evening. Many meetings will feature
presenters from the technology industry. Group members also often present
— either about technology or about an individual project such as a short
movie. Most meetings include time for question and answer sessions as well
as some social and networking activities. You can ask any question imaginable
about your computer, easy or difficult, and get an immediate answer from
a knowledgeable fellow user. Many meetings feature a raffle or other giveaways.
User groups often receive software and merchandise donations from industry
vendors, and most groups share these items with their members via the monthly
raffle.

What else do user groups do?

User groups sometimes produce special events — training days, swap meets, gaming
parties, computer shows, trivia contests, summer camps, picnics, and more.
Groups will visit other locations, organizations, or events in the community
such as libraries, book clubs, or fairs. Many user groups also initiate technology-related
community service projects. They donate used computers to local charities
and provide ongoing support, refurbish older computers for use in schools
that don’t have the funds to buy new computers, or possibly donate equipment
to the elderly and help them get started on the internet.

How are user groups organized?

User groups are independent organizations run by local volunteer Macintosh
enthusiasts. Apple promotes and supports user groups, but the company does
not own, manage, or direct them. They are not organized into a formal hierarchy;
each operates independently. User group members usually elect officers —
a president, vice president, secretary, treasurer, meeting coordinator, newsletter
editor, webmaster, and volunteer coordinator — who manage the day-to-day
operations of the club.

Aren’t all user group members fanatics, freaks and geeks?

Most user group folks are regular people — accountants, doctors, lawyers, policemen,
artists, consultants, airline pilots, clerks, caterers, businessmen, teachers,
publishers, retired people, medical technicians, corporate executives, retail
managers, students, musicians, firemen, writers, producers, editors, film
makers, secretaries, web designers, and small business owners.

Why should I join a user group?

Joining gives you full access to all the benefits a group offers. Though membership
offerings vary from group to group, you can look for a newsletter, personalized
support, regular meetings, and a welcoming atmosphere. You’ll feel connected
to the many other Mac users in your community. Check here for many more benefits.