How we make friends just isn't the same as it used to be. For many of us, the structure of our IRL social network has changed as well. In an effort to ignite personal connections, the Duluth Folk School has been hosting regular Speed Friending Events.
"It's so loaded to say hi to someone on the bus or at the grocery store," says organizer Hadrian DeMaioribus. "Speed Friending puts you in contact with people who are very interesting... it creates this kind of broad base of acquaintances."
DeMaioribus has been running Speed Friending events for about a decade and has found that keeping things simple, rather than offering prompts, is the best way to let things flow naturally - even if that means an awkward moment from time to time. "Foibles are actually a really good source of connection. Everyone is very kind, and so if you make a misstep I'm going to laugh and we're going to feel bonded over that."
Speed Friending at the Duluth Folk School happens on the 3rd and 4th Friday of every month beginning at 5:30pm. Alternatively, Slow Friending is also an option on the 3rd Saturday of each month beginning at 4pm.
You can hear Community Connection every Tuesday and Thursday at 8am on Northland Morning.
