Zoom is a cloud-based video conferencing service that allows users to virtually meet with others - either by video or audio-only or both, while conducting live chats - and it enables recordings and screen sharing. It's widely used for business meetings, online education, and social gatherings.

Zoom can be a powerful tool for community builders, offering a virtual space that can replicate many aspects of in-person interaction and help maintain a cohesive and engaged community. Here's how it can be particularly useful:

• Virtual Events: Community builders can organize webinars or large public meetings. Zoom's webinar feature allows for larger audiences and the ability to control who presents to the group, making it suitable for guest speakers, educational sessions, or community announcements.
• Interactive Workshops: With breakout rooms, community builders can split participants into smaller groups for focused discussions or activities, simulating the experience of workshop tables at a physical event.
• Regular Meetings: Recurring Zoom meetings can be scheduled for regular community catch-ups, planning sessions, or collaborative work, helping to maintain consistent engagement.
• Networking: The "waiting room" and "breakout room" features can be used to facilitate networking, allowing community members to engage in one-on-one conversations or in small groups, similar to a real-life networking event.
• Training Sessions: Community builders can conduct training for volunteers or staff, with the ability to share their screen, use a whiteboard, or play videos, which can be recorded for later reference.
• Social Gatherings: Informal events, such as virtual coffee hours or happy hours, can be hosted to foster personal connections and a sense of belonging within the community.
• Membership Onboarding: New members can be welcomed and oriented through Zoom sessions, where they can learn about the community's goals, activities, and how to get involved.
• Feedback and Q&A Sessions: Zoom meetings can be an excellent venue for community leaders to solicit feedback, answer questions, and discuss concerns, ensuring that the community's voice is heard and considered in decision-making.
• Collaborations and Partnerships: Community builders can use Zoom to facilitate collaboration sessions with partner organizations or stakeholders to work on joint projects or initiatives.
• Accessibility: By using Zoom, community builders can reach a wider audience, including those with mobility challenges or those living in remote areas, ensuring inclusivity and diversity within the community.