I think supporting friendships in a group can be useful, but this tends to be what most community organisers are already focusing on.
There are downsides like being perceived as a friends group which make it harder for new people to get involved. Also some of the most impactful people may not be looking for new friends, but are looking for advice on where to donate/work/volunteer their time.
This will also depend on the size of a group, smaller groups probably benefit from strong friendships to begin with, but as the group grows, too many close friendships might limit future growth.
I think supporting friendships in a group can be useful, but this tends to be what most community organisers are already focusing on.
There are downsides like being perceived as a friends group which make it harder for new people to get involved. Also some of the most impactful people may not be looking for new friends, but are looking for advice on where to donate/work/volunteer their time.
I’ve written about how group organisers should try to focus more on the wider network than just a tight knit club.
This will also depend on the size of a group, smaller groups probably benefit from strong friendships to begin with, but as the group grows, too many close friendships might limit future growth.