Third Act Training Series: How to Build Online Community

Creative tools and intentional relationship-building can make online activism more engaging and effective. In this session, we share ideas and strategies for strengthening community and creating inclusive online spaces that support powerful, collective action.

Activism isn’t only about showing up in the streets—it’s also about building the relationships, skills, and structures that help us create lasting change. There’s real power in building relationships online—but it doesn’t happen by accident—connection in virtual spaces takes intention. In this session, we practiced some of the tools that make that possible: from engaging breakout rooms to a shared reading of Holding Vigil, to using simple features like reaction buttons to create space for presence and participation.

Many Third Actors have found that online organizing offers a unique ability to connect across distances and bridge communities statewide. We heard from folks like Jeff from Michigan, Liz from Upstate NY, Deborah in New Hampshire and Dan in Tennessee—all who shared how they’ve strengthened local connections through welcome calls, casual coffee chats, and hybrid meetings that bring people together both online and in person.

Building community can be as joyful and imaginative as it is powerful, so whether you’re new to online organizing, or looking to deepen what you’re already doing, look not further than this training which is full of practical tips and inspiration.