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.

What does it cost to join?
Membership prices vary from group to group. While some groups have no membership fee, most charge $10 - $60 a year to cover expenses. Check with your local group for more information.

Where can I get more information about user groups in my area?
Visit our online user group locator to find a group near you. You can search by state or zip code. To find groups outside the U.S., you can search by country. When the locator returns a list of groups, click on the ones that look interesting to learn more.

How do I give user groups a try?
Use the online locator to find a couple of groups near you. Look at their websites or newsletters to see what they offer. Email or call the group to get more information. Find out when the group meets and visit one of their monthly meetings. This is an excellent way to get to know the group. Introduce yourself to one of the group leaders and explain what you’re looking for. Chances are, they’ll know just where to find it.

I can’t attend meetings. Can user groups still help me?
Yes. Even if you don’t attend regular meetings, many user groups offer a variety of non-meeting resources which you’ll find beneficial. Top notch publications, specialized technical help, email discussion lists, and/or online message boards are examples of these resources. Joining an online-only user group is another option if you are comfortable using the Internet and unable to take advantage of a local user group presence.

I’m having trouble finding a user group in my area. Can you help?
If you have difficulty finding a group using the locator, send email to usergroups@apple.com with the following information:

	Your name
	Your country
	Your city/state/province/zip code
	Names of other cities in your area

Please be patient. We’ll respond as soon as possible.

Any other questions?
Check out the other question and answers.