Field Notes # 7

Perhaps one of the most significant events during the year Face Aids participates in is World AIDS Week, in which an entire week is devoted to raising awareness and funds for the cause. The event is scheduled to take place from December 1-5 and preparation for the festivities has already begun. One specific way of tackling the numerous responsibilities is through small groups such as the concert planning committee. Each group is given a different mission and an assigned leader who reports to the president. The president then updates the chapter during Monday night meetings, assigning new goals if needed. One way of maintaining communication amongst group members and updating one another on progress being made is through the Face Aids Austin google group. Here members can post and update information available to all participating Face Aid Austin users. In addition, daily updates to the tabling schedule are posted as well as individual thoughts and concerns. Overall, the Web site's rhetoric is very relaxed and chill. Members do not communicate in typical business jargon; however, slang is not used. Furthermore, members are very supportive of one another and incredibly friendly. The site has a very warm feel to it and gives off a community, "we're all in this together" kind of vibe which likely is one reason members continue to remain involved and active in the group. Most striking, is how close members are with one another and how common their interaction is as they are constantly posting and writing quick blurbs amongst each other whether or not it concerns Face Aid functions. I can not help but think this on-going interaction plays a large part in maintaining high retention rates. By encouraging everyone to participate members are made to feel welcome and a part of the group as though their contribution makes a difference in the overall picture.