Society Circle Community Standards

Version: 1.0.0
Effective Date: July 1, 2026
Last Updated: July 1, 2026


Table of Contents

Part I — Our Community Philosophy

  1. Why These Standards Exist
  2. Building Extraordinary Communities
  3. Every Member is a Host
  4. The Hospitality Standard
  5. The Society Circle Covenant

Part II — Our Community Values

  1. Kindness
  2. Respect
  3. Inclusion
  4. Authenticity
  5. Curiosity
  6. Responsibility
  7. Safety
  8. Service
  9. Belonging

(Additional Parts continue in later Waves.)


Part I — Our Community Philosophy

1. Why These Standards Exist

Society Circle exists because we believe no one should have to build a life alone.

Communities are not built by algorithms.

They are not built by mobile applications.

They are not built by social media.

Communities are built by ordinary people who consistently choose to welcome others, show kindness, create meaningful experiences, and invest in relationships over time.

These Community Standards exist to help every Member contribute to that mission.

Unlike many online platforms, these standards are not simply a list of prohibited behaviors.

They are a shared commitment to creating communities where people feel safe, respected, remembered, and genuinely welcomed.

Every Member contributes to the culture of Society Circle.

Every interaction matters.

Every Experience shapes the community.

Every conversation is an opportunity to help someone feel that they belong.


Our Goal

The purpose of these Community Standards is to cultivate communities that are:

  • welcoming;
  • trustworthy;
  • respectful;
  • inclusive;
  • safe;
  • generous;
  • authentic;
  • joyful;
  • and relationship-centered.

When difficult situations arise, these Standards should be interpreted in a manner that best supports meaningful human relationships while protecting the safety and dignity of every Member.


2. Building Extraordinary Communities

Extraordinary communities do not happen by accident.

They are built intentionally through thousands of small decisions made by ordinary people.

A smile.

A conversation.

An introduction.

Remembering someone's name.

Saving a seat.

Inviting someone to join.

Checking on a Member who has been absent.

Showing gratitude to a Host.

Helping clean up after an Experience.

Listening before speaking.

Choosing grace instead of judgment.

These seemingly small acts become the foundation of lasting relationships.

Society Circle exists to encourage these moments because they ultimately become the stories that define a community.


Relationships Before Transactions

Society Circle believes relationships are more valuable than transactions.

Membership is not simply access to events.

It is participation in a community.

Experiences are not products to consume.

They are opportunities to build friendships.

Technology is not the destination.

It is a tool that supports real life.

Our success is measured not by time spent inside an application, but by meaningful relationships that continue long after Members leave their screens.


3. Every Member is a Host

Hospitality is not limited to official Hosts.

Every Member shares responsibility for creating a welcoming environment.

Whether attending your first gathering or your hundredth, you have the opportunity to influence another person's experience.

Being a good host may include:

  • introducing yourself to someone new;
  • inviting another Member into a conversation;
  • making space at your table;
  • welcoming first-time attendees;
  • encouraging quieter voices;
  • thanking volunteers;
  • respecting Community Partners;
  • helping after an Experience;
  • and contributing positively to the atmosphere of the community.

Leadership within Society Circle begins with hospitality rather than title.

The strongest communities are built by Members who consistently help others feel seen, valued, and included.


4. The Hospitality Standard

Hospitality is one of Society Circle's defining principles.

Hospitality means more than providing food, drinks, or a venue.

It is the intentional practice of making another person feel welcomed, respected, comfortable, and appreciated.

Hospitality should be evident in both our digital platform and our in-person Experiences.

Members are encouraged to:

  • greet others warmly;
  • remember names whenever possible;
  • respect different backgrounds and perspectives;
  • assume good intentions;
  • communicate with kindness;
  • honor commitments;
  • show appreciation;
  • and contribute to an atmosphere where others feel comfortable participating.

Hospitality does not require perfection.

It requires intentionality.


Hospitality Begins With Inclusion

The strongest communities continually create room for new relationships.

Members should strive to include people who may be:

  • attending their first Experience;
  • new to the city;
  • naturally quieter;
  • attending alone;
  • or seeking connection.

No Member should consistently feel invisible within the community.

Creating belonging is a shared responsibility.


5. The Society Circle Covenant

Membership in Society Circle represents more than access to a platform.

It reflects a commitment to helping build the kind of community that many people spend their lives searching for.

Accordingly, every Member is encouraged to embrace the following covenant.


The Society Circle Covenant

As a Member of Society Circle, I will strive to:

  • welcome others with generosity and kindness;
  • assume good intentions whenever reasonable;
  • protect the dignity of every Member;
  • respect personal boundaries;
  • honor privacy and confidentiality;
  • communicate honestly and respectfully;
  • celebrate the successes of others;
  • care for shared spaces and Experiences;
  • resolve conflict with humility and grace;
  • leave every gathering better than I found it;
  • contribute more than I consume;
  • and help every person feel that they belong.

Above all, I will remember that communities are built one relationship at a time.

There is always room for one more.


Part II — Our Community Values

6. Kindness

Kindness is the foundation upon which every healthy community is built.

Members are expected to treat one another with patience, generosity, empathy, and compassion.

Kindness often appears in simple actions:

  • offering encouragement;
  • expressing gratitude;
  • listening attentively;
  • welcoming newcomers;
  • extending invitations;
  • celebrating milestones;
  • and showing understanding during difficult moments.

Disagreement may occur within any healthy community.

Cruelty should not.


7. Respect

Every Member deserves to be treated with dignity.

Respect means recognizing that each individual brings unique experiences, perspectives, beliefs, and stories into the community.

Members should:

  • speak respectfully;
  • listen without interruption;
  • respect differing opinions;
  • honor personal boundaries;
  • follow Experience guidelines;
  • and engage in disagreement without hostility.

Respect extends equally to:

  • Members;
  • Hosts;
  • Community Coaches;
  • City Hosts;
  • volunteers;
  • Community Partners;
  • guests;
  • and Society Circle staff.

8. Inclusion

Society Circle exists to expand circles of belonging—not create exclusive ones.

Members are encouraged to create environments where others feel welcomed regardless of:

  • age;
  • race;
  • ethnicity;
  • national origin;
  • disability;
  • faith tradition;
  • relationship status;
  • profession;
  • socioeconomic background;
  • or life experience.

Inclusion means actively making room for others rather than simply allowing them to be present.


9. Authenticity

Meaningful relationships require authenticity.

Members are encouraged to present themselves honestly and engage with others sincerely.

Authenticity includes:

  • being truthful;
  • honoring commitments;
  • communicating openly;
  • admitting mistakes;
  • asking for help when needed;
  • and allowing relationships to develop naturally.

Members should avoid creating false identities or intentionally misleading others regarding who they are.


10. Curiosity

Healthy communities grow through curiosity rather than assumptions.

Members are encouraged to:

  • ask thoughtful questions;
  • seek understanding before judgment;
  • appreciate different viewpoints;
  • remain open to learning;
  • and approach unfamiliar experiences with humility.

Curiosity creates opportunities for friendship where assumptions often create unnecessary division.


11. Responsibility

Every Member contributes to the health of the community.

Responsibility includes:

  • honoring commitments;
  • respecting Experience guidelines;
  • supporting Hosts;
  • communicating when plans change;
  • caring for shared spaces;
  • following Community Standards;
  • and accepting accountability for one's actions.

Communities become stronger when Members consistently contribute rather than simply participate.


12. Safety

Physical, emotional, and psychological safety are essential to meaningful community.

Every Member should help create environments where people feel comfortable participating without fear of harassment, intimidation, discrimination, or abuse.

Safety is a shared responsibility and will always take priority over convenience.


13. Service

The strongest communities are built by people who serve others.

Service may include:

  • volunteering;
  • hosting Experiences;
  • mentoring newer Members;
  • supporting Community Partners;
  • helping with setup or cleanup;
  • encouraging others;
  • and contributing to the overall health of the community.

Leadership within Society Circle is measured primarily through service rather than authority.


14. Belonging

Belonging is the reason Society Circle exists.

Every policy, every Experience, every Circle, every Community, and every interaction should ultimately move the community toward one goal:

Helping people build meaningful relationships and extraordinary lives together.

When Members consistently live these values, belonging naturally follows.


Part III — Member Expectations

15. Be Welcoming

Every Member has the opportunity to shape another person's experience.

Whether someone is attending their first gathering or has been part of Society Circle for years, Members are encouraged to actively create an atmosphere of welcome.

Being welcoming may include:

  • introducing yourself to someone new;
  • inviting someone into a conversation;
  • saving an open seat;
  • including Members who arrive alone;
  • recognizing first-time attendees;
  • learning and remembering names;
  • expressing appreciation;
  • and helping others feel comfortable participating.

Small gestures often become the beginning of lasting friendships.


First Experiences Matter

Many Members join Society Circle because they are seeking connection during a season of transition.

A person's first Experience may determine whether they return.

Members are encouraged to help ensure that no one attends an Experience feeling invisible or alone.


16. Be Respectful

Respect is essential to healthy relationships.

Members are expected to communicate with courtesy, patience, and dignity, even during disagreement.

Respect includes:

  • listening without interrupting;
  • allowing differing opinions;
  • avoiding personal attacks;
  • respecting another Member's time;
  • honoring commitments;
  • speaking constructively;
  • respecting Community Partners and venues;
  • and treating every Member with equal dignity.

Healthy disagreement strengthens communities.

Disrespect weakens them.


Respect for Volunteers

Hosts, Community Coaches, City Hosts, and volunteers generously contribute their time to create Experiences for others.

Members are expected to:

  • follow reasonable instructions;
  • communicate concerns respectfully;
  • appreciate volunteer efforts;
  • and recognize that leaders serve the community rather than control it.

17. Protect Privacy

Trust requires discretion.

Members should respect the privacy of others both online and during in-person Experiences.

Members should not:

  • disclose another Member's private information without permission;
  • share confidential conversations;
  • publish personal contact information;
  • reveal another person's location without consent;
  • or distribute private photographs where a reasonable expectation of privacy exists.

If you are uncertain whether information should be shared, ask for permission first.


Confidential Conversations

Many meaningful conversations occur within Society Circle.

Members should treat personal stories shared in confidence with care and respect.

The trust created inside a community should remain stronger than the desire to share someone else's story.


18. Communicate Honestly

Authentic relationships require honest communication.

Members should:

  • represent themselves truthfully;
  • communicate intentions clearly;
  • honor commitments;
  • acknowledge mistakes;
  • apologize when appropriate;
  • and avoid intentionally misleading others.

Members should not:

  • impersonate another person;
  • create deceptive profiles;
  • intentionally spread false information;
  • or misrepresent their relationship with Society Circle.

Honesty builds trust.

Trust builds community.


19. Respect Boundaries

Every Member has different levels of comfort regarding conversation, friendship, communication, and personal space.

Members should respect boundaries regarding:

  • physical contact;
  • personal conversations;
  • invitations;
  • photography;
  • messaging frequency;
  • social media connections;
  • and continued communication.

"No" is a complete answer.

Members should graciously accept another person's decision without pressure, guilt, or repeated requests.


Personal Safety

If another Member communicates that a behavior makes them uncomfortable, Members should respectfully adjust that behavior whenever reasonable.

Repeated disregard for clearly communicated boundaries may violate these Community Standards.


20. Participate in Good Faith

Society Circle exists for genuine relationship building.

Members should participate with sincere intentions rather than seeking to exploit the community for personal gain.

Good faith participation includes:

  • attending Experiences with genuine interest;
  • engaging respectfully;
  • contributing positively;
  • honoring RSVP commitments;
  • supporting Hosts;
  • providing constructive feedback;
  • and helping strengthen the community.

Members should avoid behavior intended primarily to manipulate, disrupt, or undermine community trust.


21. Support New Members

Every experienced Member was once new.

Members are encouraged to actively support those joining the community for the first time.

Supporting new Members may include:

  • introducing yourself;
  • explaining how Experiences work;
  • inviting them into conversations;
  • answering questions;
  • introducing them to other Members;
  • recommending Circles;
  • and following up after an Experience.

Belonging grows when welcome becomes a shared responsibility.


22. Represent Your Community Well

Every Member represents Society Circle through both digital interactions and in-person Experiences.

Members should strive to conduct themselves in a manner that reflects positively upon:

  • themselves;
  • their Home Community;
  • their Circle;
  • Hosts;
  • Community Partners;
  • and Society Circle as a whole.

This does not require perfection.

It requires integrity, maturity, and respect for others.


Community Reputation

The reputation of every Society Circle Community is built one interaction at a time.

Members should recognize that their conduct influences how future Members experience the community.

Strong communities are built through consistent positive behavior rather than isolated acts of leadership.


23. Care for Community Spaces

Society Circle Experiences often take place in restaurants, parks, cafés, businesses, homes, and other shared environments.

Members are expected to treat every venue with care and appreciation.

This includes:

  • respecting property;
  • following venue rules;
  • cleaning up after themselves;
  • respecting staff;
  • avoiding unnecessary disruption;
  • and helping preserve welcoming environments for future Experiences.

Community Partners generously open their spaces to Society Circle.

Members should help ensure those relationships remain positive and sustainable.


Leave It Better Than You Found It

Members are encouraged to adopt a simple principle:

Whenever possible, leave every Experience, conversation, venue, and relationship better than you found it.

Communities flourish when people consistently contribute more than they consume.


Part IV — Safety Standards

24. Harassment

Society Circle is committed to creating communities where every Member feels safe, respected, and welcome.

Harassment has no place within Society Circle, whether it occurs:

  • in person;
  • through private messages;
  • in group discussions;
  • at Experiences;
  • during video calls;
  • through social media connected to Society Circle activities;
  • or through any other interaction related to the community.

Harassment is prohibited regardless of whether it occurs once or repeatedly.


Examples of Harassment

Harassment may include, but is not limited to:

  • repeated unwanted contact;
  • persistent intimidation;
  • degrading comments;
  • humiliating another Member;
  • unwanted sexual attention;
  • repeated insults;
  • abusive language;
  • deliberate exclusion intended to cause harm;
  • mocking personal characteristics;
  • public shaming;
  • retaliation against someone who reports misconduct;
  • or conduct that creates an intimidating or hostile environment.

Context matters.

Society Circle evaluates behavior based on its overall impact rather than isolated words or phrases.


25. Hate Speech

Society Circle welcomes Members from many backgrounds and life experiences.

Speech or conduct that promotes hatred, dehumanization, or violence toward individuals or groups is prohibited.

This includes attacks based upon characteristics such as:

  • race;
  • color;
  • ethnicity;
  • national origin;
  • disability;
  • religion;
  • age;
  • sex;
  • gender;
  • sexual orientation;
  • veteran status;
  • or other characteristics protected by applicable law.

Healthy discussion about social, political, cultural, or religious topics is permitted when conducted respectfully.

Dehumanizing or hateful conduct is not.


26. Bullying

Bullying undermines the trust necessary for meaningful relationships.

Members may not engage in behavior intended to intimidate, embarrass, isolate, or repeatedly target another person.

Bullying may include:

  • repeated insults;
  • ridicule;
  • coordinated exclusion;
  • hostile jokes directed at an individual;
  • repeated personal attacks;
  • spreading malicious rumors;
  • encouraging others to target someone;
  • or other behavior intended to cause emotional harm.

Constructive disagreement is not bullying.

Personal attacks are.


27. Sexual Harassment

Society Circle exists to foster friendships and healthy communities—not unwanted advances.

Members must respect personal boundaries at all times.

Sexual harassment is strictly prohibited.

Examples include:

  • unwanted sexual comments;
  • repeated romantic advances after rejection;
  • sexually explicit messages;
  • inappropriate touching;
  • requests for sexual favors;
  • sharing sexually explicit material without consent;
  • inappropriate comments about another person's body;
  • stalking motivated by romantic interest;
  • or any conduct creating an intimidating or hostile environment.

Consent must be voluntary, informed, and ongoing.

Silence or discomfort should never be interpreted as consent.


Respecting "No"

If another Member declines:

  • a conversation;
  • an invitation;
  • a date;
  • continued messaging;
  • physical contact;
  • or further interaction,

that decision must be respected immediately.

Repeated attempts after a clear refusal may constitute harassment.


28. Violence

Society Circle maintains zero tolerance for violence or credible threats of violence.

Members may not:

  • assault another person;
  • engage in physical intimidation;
  • encourage violence;
  • damage property;
  • carry out acts intended to cause physical harm;
  • or create unsafe physical environments.

Any immediate threat to safety may result in emergency action, including removal from an Experience, suspension of Membership, or notification of appropriate authorities.


29. Threats

Threatening another Member, Host, Community Partner, volunteer, or employee is prohibited.

Threats may include:

  • threats of physical harm;
  • threats of property damage;
  • threats intended to intimidate;
  • extortion;
  • coercion;
  • or other credible statements or actions suggesting imminent harm.

Society Circle evaluates threats based upon the totality of the circumstances, including context and perceived credibility.


30. Stalking

Members must respect the personal autonomy and safety of others.

Stalking or obsessive behavior is prohibited.

Examples include:

  • repeatedly appearing at another Member's activities without invitation;
  • persistent unwanted messaging;
  • tracking another person's location;
  • monitoring another Member's activity;
  • creating multiple accounts to continue unwanted contact;
  • encouraging others to facilitate unwanted contact;
  • or other conduct reasonably causing fear or distress.

Members should immediately respect requests for no further contact.


31. Discrimination

Society Circle seeks to build communities where every person is treated with dignity and fairness.

Members may not deny participation, harass, exclude, or mistreat another Member based upon characteristics protected by applicable law.

Discrimination may occur through:

  • words;
  • actions;
  • policies;
  • repeated exclusion;
  • unequal treatment;
  • or other conduct that unfairly targets individuals because of protected characteristics.

Reasonable accommodations for accessibility should be respected whenever practical and appropriate.


Inclusive Participation

Members are encouraged to actively include others in conversations, Experiences, and community activities.

Creating belonging often requires intentional inclusion rather than passive acceptance.


32. Illegal Activity

Society Circle may not be used to facilitate unlawful conduct.

Members may not use the Services or Society Circle Experiences to engage in activities including:

  • fraud;
  • identity theft;
  • financial scams;
  • theft;
  • unlawful harassment;
  • unlawful discrimination;
  • trafficking;
  • distribution of illegal materials;
  • unauthorized access to computer systems;
  • or other criminal conduct.

Members are also prohibited from encouraging, organizing, or assisting illegal activity through Society Circle.

Where appropriate, Society Circle may cooperate with lawful investigations conducted by government authorities.


Safety Takes Priority

When evaluating reports involving potential safety concerns, Society Circle will prioritize protecting Members and the community.

Immediate action may be taken when reasonably necessary to:

  • prevent harm;
  • protect Members;
  • preserve evidence;
  • comply with legal obligations;
  • or maintain the integrity of the community.

Temporary action taken during an investigation does not necessarily indicate that misconduct has been conclusively established.


Reporting Safety Concerns

Members are encouraged to report behavior that may violate these Community Standards.

Reports made in good faith help protect the community and allow Society Circle to respond appropriately.

Retaliation against individuals who report concerns or participate in investigations is itself a violation of these Community Standards.


Part V — Digital Community Standards

33. Messaging

Private messaging exists to strengthen genuine relationships between Members.

Members are expected to communicate with the same respect, kindness, and professionalism online that they would demonstrate during an in-person Experience.

Messages should contribute to:

  • friendship;
  • encouragement;
  • planning Experiences;
  • community participation;
  • collaboration;
  • or meaningful conversation.

Private messaging should never be used to intimidate, harass, manipulate, or pressure another Member.


Respect Communication Preferences

Members should respect another person's communication preferences.

If a Member asks that communication stop, that request should be honored promptly.

Repeated unwanted messaging may constitute harassment under these Community Standards.


Safety

If a Member receives threatening, abusive, fraudulent, or otherwise concerning messages, they are encouraged to report the interaction through available reporting tools or by contacting Society Circle.


34. Group Discussions

Circle discussions, Community conversations, and digital forums exist to strengthen relationships through thoughtful conversation.

Members are encouraged to:

  • participate respectfully;
  • welcome differing viewpoints;
  • remain curious;
  • contribute constructively;
  • avoid personal attacks;
  • and keep discussions relevant to the community.

Healthy disagreement is welcomed.

Hostility is not.


Constructive Conversation

Members should strive to:

  • criticize ideas rather than people;
  • ask questions before making assumptions;
  • avoid inflammatory language;
  • provide context;
  • and seek understanding before persuasion.

The objective is not to win arguments.

The objective is to strengthen relationships while exchanging ideas.


Moderator Guidance

Hosts, Community Coaches, City Hosts, and Society Circle moderators may guide discussions to maintain respectful participation.

Members are expected to cooperate with reasonable moderation decisions.


35. Photos & Videos

Experiences are intended to create meaningful memories.

Photography and video often help celebrate those memories.

Members should remain respectful of the privacy and comfort of others.


Consent

Members should avoid photographing or recording individuals in situations where they have a reasonable expectation of privacy.

Whenever practical, Members are encouraged to obtain permission before:

  • taking close-up photographs;
  • recording conversations;
  • conducting interviews;
  • or publishing identifiable images of another Member.

Sharing Community Photos

Photos shared from Society Circle Experiences should reflect the welcoming and respectful culture of the community.

Members should avoid posting images that:

  • embarrass another Member;
  • misrepresent an Experience;
  • expose private information;
  • encourage harassment;
  • or violate another person's privacy.

If a Member reasonably requests removal of a photograph featuring them, Members are encouraged to honor that request whenever practical.


36. AI Content

Society Circle welcomes responsible use of artificial intelligence when it enhances communication, creativity, accessibility, or community participation.

Artificial intelligence should never be used to deceive, manipulate, impersonate, or undermine trust within the community.


Responsible Use

Members may use AI tools to assist with activities such as:

  • drafting messages;
  • organizing Experiences;
  • creating educational materials;
  • improving accessibility;
  • translating content;
  • brainstorming ideas;
  • or supporting community planning.

Members remain responsible for the content they publish regardless of whether AI assisted in its creation.


Prohibited AI Uses

Members may not use artificial intelligence to:

  • impersonate another Member;
  • create deceptive identities;
  • generate fraudulent communications;
  • fabricate evidence;
  • produce manipulated media intended to deceive;
  • facilitate harassment;
  • spread misinformation knowingly;
  • or otherwise violate these Community Standards.

Trust remains more important than technology.


37. Spam

Society Circle is a relationship platform—not an attention platform.

Members may not use the Services primarily to distribute unsolicited or repetitive content.

Spam includes behavior such as:

  • repetitive messaging;
  • mass unsolicited invitations;
  • excessive promotional posts;
  • misleading links;
  • repetitive advertisements;
  • automated bulk communications;
  • or content intended primarily to drive traffic away from Society Circle.

Reasonable invitations to community-related activities are generally welcome when shared appropriately.


38. Promotion & Advertising

Members frequently own businesses, lead organizations, and support meaningful causes.

Society Circle celebrates these accomplishments.

However, relationships should always come before marketing.

Members should not use the community primarily as a sales channel.


Appropriate Promotion

Reasonable promotion may occur when:

  • it is relevant to the conversation;
  • requested by another Member;
  • approved by a Host or Community leader;
  • part of an official Community Partner Experience;
  • or otherwise consistent with the spirit of the community.

Members should avoid turning conversations or Experiences into sales presentations.


Community Partners

Official Community Partners may receive additional opportunities for visibility consistent with Society Circle policies and partnership agreements.

These opportunities are designed to strengthen local communities rather than create intrusive advertising.


39. Misrepresentation

Trust depends upon authenticity.

Members may not intentionally misrepresent:

  • their identity;
  • professional credentials;
  • relationship to Society Circle;
  • leadership authority;
  • Community affiliation;
  • Experience participation;
  • or other material facts likely to influence another Member's decisions.

Examples include:

  • creating fake accounts;
  • impersonating another person;
  • falsely claiming to represent Society Circle;
  • presenting fabricated testimonials;
  • or intentionally misleading Members for personal benefit.

Honest mistakes may occur.

Intentional deception is inconsistent with Society Circle membership.


Integrity Online

Digital interactions should reflect the same integrity expected during in-person Experiences.

Members are encouraged to ask a simple question before posting:

"Will this strengthen trust within the community?"

If the answer is no, reconsider before sharing.


Building a Healthy Digital Community

Technology should support relationships—not replace them.

Members are encouraged to use Society Circle's digital tools to:

  • deepen existing friendships;
  • organize Experiences;
  • welcome new Members;
  • celebrate milestones;
  • encourage participation;
  • and strengthen real-world community.

The healthiest digital communities inspire people to spend less time online and more time building meaningful lives together.


Part VI — Experiences & Gatherings

40. RSVP Expectations

Every RSVP represents a commitment to fellow Members, Hosts, Community Partners, and the broader community.

When Members reserve a place at an Experience, others make decisions based upon that commitment.

Members are expected to RSVP thoughtfully and responsibly.


Honor Your Commitment

If you register for an Experience, you should make every reasonable effort to attend.

When plans change, Members are encouraged to cancel their RSVP as early as possible so another Member may participate.

Repeated no-shows or late cancellations may affect access to limited-capacity Experiences.

The purpose of these expectations is not punishment—it is respect for everyone involved in creating meaningful Experiences.


Waitlists

Many Experiences have limited capacity.

Members are encouraged to promptly accept or decline waitlist invitations.

Holding a reservation that you do not intend to use prevents another Member from participating.

Respecting waitlists helps ensure fair access throughout the community.


41. Arrival & Attendance

Experiences begin long before the official start time.

Arriving prepared and on time demonstrates respect for:

  • Hosts;
  • fellow Members;
  • Community Partners;
  • volunteers;
  • and the Experience itself.

Arriving Late

Life happens.

If you expect to arrive late, Members are encouraged to notify the Host whenever practical.

For Experiences involving reservations, ticketed events, workshops, or limited seating, repeated late arrivals may disrupt the experience for others.


Participation

Members are encouraged to engage fully during Experiences by:

  • participating respectfully;
  • introducing themselves to others;
  • remaining present;
  • minimizing unnecessary distractions;
  • and contributing positively to the atmosphere.

Attendance alone does not build community.

Participation does.


42. Respect for Hosts

Hosts generously invest their time, preparation, and energy to create meaningful Experiences for others.

Members are expected to support Hosts through respectful participation and cooperation.

Members should:

  • follow reasonable event guidance;
  • communicate respectfully;
  • arrive prepared;
  • honor Experience expectations;
  • notify Hosts of significant issues;
  • and express appreciation for the work Hosts perform.

Hosts are community builders—not customer service representatives.

They deserve patience, gratitude, and respect.


Host Decisions

Hosts may make reasonable decisions regarding:

  • event logistics;
  • seating;
  • timing;
  • safety;
  • participation;
  • and operational matters.

Members should cooperate with these decisions whenever reasonable.

Concerns may always be shared respectfully after the Experience.


43. Respect for Community Partners

Restaurants, cafés, parks, businesses, and other Community Partners make Society Circle Experiences possible.

Members represent not only themselves, but the entire Society Circle community.

Members should:

  • respect staff;
  • follow venue policies;
  • treat property with care;
  • honor reservation times;
  • settle personal expenses when applicable;
  • avoid disruptive conduct;
  • and leave spaces in excellent condition.

Strong partnerships create more opportunities for future Experiences.

Every interaction contributes to those relationships.


Stewardship

Society Circle seeks to become a valued guest in every community.

Members should strive to leave every venue better than they found it by:

  • cleaning up after themselves;
  • treating facilities respectfully;
  • thanking staff;
  • and contributing to a positive atmosphere.

Hospitality should extend to those who host us.


44. Alcohol & Responsible Conduct

Some Society Circle Experiences may involve alcoholic beverages.

Alcohol is never the purpose of an Experience.

Relationships are.

Members who choose to consume alcohol are expected to do so responsibly.


Expectations

Members may not:

  • become dangerously intoxicated;
  • pressure others to drink;
  • provide alcohol unlawfully;
  • operate a vehicle while impaired;
  • engage in aggressive behavior due to intoxication;
  • or otherwise create an unsafe environment.

Members are encouraged to help one another make safe and responsible decisions.


Respect Personal Choices

Members should always respect another person's decision:

  • not to drink;
  • to leave early;
  • to decline invitations;
  • or to participate differently.

No Member should ever feel pressured regarding alcohol consumption.


45. Guests

Certain Experiences may allow Members to invite guests.

Guests should be welcomed with the same hospitality shown to Members.

Members inviting guests remain responsible for helping those guests understand and respect Society Circle's expectations.

Guests are expected to follow these Community Standards while participating.

Hosts may establish additional guest policies for specific Experiences based upon capacity, venue requirements, or community needs.


Introducing Guests

Whenever practical, Members are encouraged to introduce guests to:

  • Hosts;
  • Community Coaches;
  • other Members;
  • and the broader community.

A thoughtful introduction often transforms a guest's first visit into the beginning of meaningful relationships.


46. Photography

Photography helps preserve meaningful memories and celebrate community life.

At the same time, Members deserve respect for their privacy and personal comfort.

Members should exercise good judgment when taking or sharing photographs during Experiences.


Community Photography

Society Circle or designated photographers may capture images during Experiences for purposes such as:

  • documenting community life;
  • celebrating Members;
  • promoting future Experiences;
  • highlighting Community Partners;
  • and telling the story of Society Circle.

Whenever reasonably practical, Members who prefer not to appear in promotional photography should communicate that preference to the Host.

Society Circle will make reasonable efforts to honor those requests.


47. Accessibility

Society Circle strives to create Experiences that are welcoming and accessible to as many people as reasonably possible.

Hosts are encouraged to consider accessibility when planning Experiences, including:

  • venue selection;
  • seating arrangements;
  • mobility considerations;
  • dietary accommodations where practical;
  • communication needs;
  • and other reasonable accessibility considerations.

Members are encouraged to communicate accessibility needs in advance whenever possible so Hosts can plan appropriately.


Shared Responsibility

Accessibility is strengthened when Members extend patience, flexibility, and support toward one another.

Small acts of accommodation often make a significant difference in helping every Member participate fully.


48. Emergencies

The safety of Members, guests, Hosts, volunteers, and Community Partners always takes priority over the continuation of an Experience.

During emergencies, Members are expected to:

  • follow instructions from Hosts or emergency personnel;
  • prioritize personal safety;
  • assist others when safe to do so;
  • avoid creating unnecessary panic;
  • and cooperate with emergency procedures.

Hosts may modify, postpone, relocate, or end an Experience whenever reasonably necessary to protect the well-being of participants.


Care for One Another

Society Circle is built upon relationships.

During unexpected situations, Members are encouraged to look after one another with compassion, patience, and practical support.

Communities reveal their true character not only during celebrations, but also in how they respond when someone needs help.


Part VII — Leadership Standards

Leadership within Society Circle is not defined by authority.

It is defined by service.

Every leadership role exists for one purpose:

To help people build meaningful relationships and extraordinary lives together.

Leaders are expected to model the values, culture, and hospitality that define Society Circle.

Because leaders shape the experience of many others, they are held to a higher standard of conduct than Members generally.


49. Hosts

Hosts are the frontline ambassadors of Society Circle.

They create the environments where relationships begin.

A Host's primary responsibility is not simply organizing an Experience.

It is cultivating belonging.


Responsibilities of Hosts

Hosts are expected to:

  • welcome every attendee warmly;
  • recognize first-time Members whenever practical;
  • facilitate introductions;
  • encourage participation;
  • monitor the atmosphere of the Experience;
  • address concerns respectfully;
  • communicate clearly;
  • uphold these Community Standards;
  • partner respectfully with Community Partners;
  • and help every participant feel included.

Hosts should strive to know Members by name whenever reasonably possible.

Relationships begin with recognition.


Creating Extraordinary Experiences

An exceptional Experience is measured by more than attendance.

Hosts are encouraged to ask:

  • Did new friendships begin?
  • Did people feel welcomed?
  • Did someone who arrived alone leave feeling connected?
  • Did every person have an opportunity to participate?
  • Did Members leave looking forward to returning?

Hospitality—not logistics—is the defining characteristic of a Society Circle Experience.


50. Community Coaches

Community Coaches exist to strengthen the long-term health of the community.

Where Hosts focus on individual Experiences, Community Coaches focus on relationships across many Experiences.

They help Members become increasingly connected over time.


Responsibilities

Community Coaches are encouraged to:

  • welcome new Members into the community;
  • support Hosts;
  • mentor emerging leaders;
  • recognize Members who may feel disconnected;
  • encourage healthy participation;
  • assist with conflict resolution;
  • promote Community Standards;
  • and strengthen the overall culture of hospitality.

Community Coaches help ensure that no Member quietly disappears without someone noticing.


Relationship Stewardship

Community Coaches should actively cultivate:

  • belonging;
  • encouragement;
  • leadership development;
  • relationship continuity;
  • and healthy community culture.

Their leadership is measured not by visibility but by the strength of the relationships they help foster.


51. City Hosts

City Hosts provide leadership across an entire local Society Circle community.

Their responsibility extends beyond individual Experiences to the health, growth, and sustainability of the city as a whole.

City Hosts serve as stewards of the Society Circle mission within their communities.


Responsibilities

City Hosts may:

  • support Hosts and Community Coaches;
  • coordinate city-wide initiatives;
  • mentor future leaders;
  • oversee community health;
  • partner with Community Partners;
  • encourage consistent hospitality standards;
  • help resolve significant concerns;
  • and represent Society Circle within the broader community.

City Hosts should consistently model humility, integrity, and servant leadership.


Community Health

City Hosts should continually ask:

  • Are Members building meaningful relationships?
  • Are new Members being welcomed?
  • Are leaders receiving support?
  • Are Experiences healthy?
  • Are Community Partners thriving?
  • Is the community becoming more welcoming over time?

Healthy communities are the ultimate measure of successful leadership.


52. Leadership Responsibility

Leadership within Society Circle is a privilege entrusted by the community.

Leaders should exercise that responsibility with humility, fairness, and integrity.

Authority exists to serve Members—not the other way around.


Higher Standards

Leaders are expected to:

  • model Community Standards consistently;
  • communicate respectfully;
  • avoid favoritism;
  • protect Member privacy;
  • exercise sound judgment;
  • make decisions fairly;
  • respond to concerns promptly;
  • encourage collaboration;
  • remain teachable;
  • and place the needs of the community above personal recognition.

Leaders should seek influence through service rather than authority.


Responsible Use of Authority

Leadership positions may not be used to:

  • intimidate Members;
  • pursue personal gain;
  • retaliate against criticism;
  • show favoritism;
  • manipulate participation;
  • exploit relationships;
  • or otherwise misuse community trust.

Members should never feel pressured to participate because of a leader's position.

Leadership exists to empower others.


Stewardship of Trust

Trust is among Society Circle's most valuable assets.

Leaders should protect that trust by acting consistently, transparently, and ethically.

When mistakes occur, leaders are encouraged to acknowledge them honestly, learn from them, and work toward restoration.

Humility strengthens leadership.


53. Conflict Resolution

Healthy communities experience disagreement.

Healthy communities also learn how to resolve disagreement well.

Society Circle encourages Members and leaders to pursue reconciliation whenever reasonably possible.


Principles for Resolution

When conflicts arise, Members are encouraged to:

  • assume good intentions where appropriate;
  • communicate directly and respectfully;
  • listen before responding;
  • seek understanding rather than victory;
  • acknowledge personal responsibility;
  • remain open to compromise;
  • and prioritize preserving relationships whenever possible.

Not every disagreement can be fully resolved.

Nearly every disagreement can be handled respectfully.


Leader Facilitation

When appropriate, Hosts, Community Coaches, or City Hosts may assist Members in resolving conflicts.

Their role is to facilitate respectful communication—not to assign blame unnecessarily.

Leaders should strive to:

  • remain impartial;
  • listen carefully;
  • protect confidentiality;
  • encourage mutual understanding;
  • and help Members move toward constructive outcomes.

Restoration Before Removal

Whenever reasonably appropriate and consistent with community safety, Society Circle seeks restoration before separation.

This may include:

  • private conversations;
  • coaching;
  • clarification of expectations;
  • opportunities to correct behavior;
  • mediation;
  • or other constructive approaches.

Some conduct, however, may require immediate action to protect Members and the integrity of the community.


Leadership Begins With Example

The strongest leaders are rarely the loudest.

They are the people who consistently:

  • welcome others;
  • serve quietly;
  • build trust;
  • create belonging;
  • encourage growth;
  • resolve conflict with grace;
  • and leave every community healthier than they found it.

This is the standard to which every Society Circle leader should aspire.


Part VIII — Enforcement

The purpose of enforcement within Society Circle is not punishment.

It is the protection and restoration of healthy community.

Whenever reasonably possible, Society Circle seeks to educate, coach, restore relationships, and help Members grow.

However, protecting the safety, dignity, and trust of the community will always take precedence over continued participation by an individual whose conduct places others at risk.

Responses to Community Standards violations will be based upon the nature, severity, frequency, intent, and impact of the conduct.


54. Reporting Concerns

Every Member shares responsibility for protecting the health of the community.

Members are encouraged to report conduct that reasonably appears to violate these Community Standards.

Reports may involve:

  • harassment;
  • discrimination;
  • threats;
  • safety concerns;
  • repeated disruptive behavior;
  • misuse of leadership authority;
  • fraud;
  • or other conduct inconsistent with Society Circle's values.

Reports should be made honestly and in good faith.

Knowingly submitting false or malicious reports may itself violate these Community Standards.


How to Report

Reports may be submitted through:

  • in-app reporting tools;
  • designated reporting forms;
  • direct communication with Hosts;
  • Community Coaches;
  • City Hosts;
  • or Society Circle support.

Whenever possible, Members are encouraged to provide:

  • relevant dates;
  • locations;
  • descriptions;
  • screenshots where appropriate;
  • names of involved individuals;
  • and any other information reasonably helpful to understanding the situation.

Good Faith Reporting

Members will not be disciplined solely because they reported a concern in good faith, even if an investigation ultimately determines that no violation occurred.

Society Circle encourages Members to raise concerns rather than remain silent when safety or community well-being may be affected.


55. Investigations

Society Circle reviews reported concerns fairly, respectfully, and as promptly as reasonably practical.

Not every report will result in disciplinary action.

Every report, however, will be evaluated based upon the available information.


Investigation Process

Depending upon the circumstances, Society Circle may:

  • review submitted evidence;
  • communicate with involved Members;
  • interview witnesses;
  • review relevant platform activity;
  • consult Hosts or community leaders;
  • seek clarification;
  • or gather additional information reasonably necessary to understand the situation.

Investigations are intended to determine facts rather than assign blame prematurely.


Confidentiality

Society Circle will make reasonable efforts to protect the privacy of those involved in investigations.

Absolute confidentiality cannot always be guaranteed.

Information may be shared when reasonably necessary to:

  • investigate reports;
  • protect Members;
  • comply with legal obligations;
  • or administer these Community Standards.

Cooperation

Members are expected to cooperate honestly during investigations.

Knowingly providing false information, destroying evidence, intimidating witnesses, or interfering with an investigation may result in additional action.


56. Temporary Restrictions

During an investigation, Society Circle may implement temporary measures reasonably necessary to protect Members or preserve the integrity of the investigation.

Temporary actions may include:

  • limiting messaging;
  • restricting participation in certain Experiences;
  • removing leadership privileges;
  • limiting access to specific platform features;
  • or temporarily suspending an account while additional information is gathered.

Temporary restrictions do not necessarily indicate that misconduct has been established.

They are precautionary measures intended to protect the community while facts are evaluated.


57. Membership Suspension

When significant violations occur, Society Circle may suspend a Member's participation for an appropriate period of time.

A suspension is intended to:

  • protect the community;
  • allow time for review;
  • encourage reflection;
  • support corrective action where appropriate;
  • and preserve trust within the community.

During a suspension, Members may lose access to some or all Society Circle Services, Experiences, leadership roles, or digital features.

The duration of a suspension may vary depending upon the circumstances.


Factors Considered

When determining whether suspension is appropriate, Society Circle may consider:

  • the seriousness of the conduct;
  • whether the behavior was intentional;
  • prior Community Standards history;
  • impact upon other Members;
  • cooperation during the investigation;
  • demonstrated accountability;
  • efforts toward restoration;
  • and overall community safety.

58. Membership Removal

In limited circumstances, permanent removal from Society Circle may become necessary.

Removal is reserved for situations where continued participation would materially undermine the safety, trust, or integrity of the community.

Examples may include:

  • serious violence;
  • credible threats;
  • sexual misconduct;
  • repeated harassment;
  • significant fraud;
  • repeated abuse of community trust;
  • misuse of leadership authority;
  • or repeated violations after prior corrective action.

Membership removal is considered a last resort whenever restoration remains reasonably possible.

However, Society Circle's first responsibility is to protect its Members.


Leadership Removal

Leadership roles are privileges, not permanent appointments.

Hosts, Community Coaches, City Hosts, and other leaders may be removed from leadership responsibilities whenever Society Circle determines such action is necessary to protect community trust or ensure healthy leadership.

Removal from leadership does not automatically result in loss of Membership.

Similarly, removal from Membership automatically ends all leadership responsibilities.


59. Appeals

Members who believe an enforcement decision was made in error may request a review.

Appeals should present:

  • relevant information;
  • clarification;
  • new evidence;
  • or circumstances that may materially affect the original decision.

Appeals should not simply restate previously considered arguments without additional context.


Review Process

Appeals will be reviewed by Society Circle using procedures appropriate to the circumstances.

The review may consider:

  • whether Community Standards were applied appropriately;
  • whether material facts were overlooked;
  • whether new information is available;
  • whether procedures were followed fairly;
  • and whether the resulting action remains appropriate.

Following review, Society Circle may:

  • affirm the original decision;
  • modify the action;
  • reduce restrictions;
  • restore Membership;
  • or take any other action reasonably appropriate under the circumstances.

Final Decisions

Following completion of the appeal process, Society Circle's decision will generally be final.

Nothing in these Community Standards creates a contractual right to continued Membership or leadership participation.

Society Circle reserves the authority described in its Terms of Service to protect the safety, culture, and integrity of the community.


Our Philosophy of Enforcement

The healthiest communities are not built through punishment.

They are built through shared values, personal responsibility, accountability, grace, and restoration.

Whenever reasonably possible, Society Circle will seek to:

  • educate before penalizing;
  • coach before removing;
  • restore before separating;
  • and strengthen relationships before assuming the worst.

At the same time, Society Circle will act decisively whenever necessary to protect Members and preserve the culture that allows meaningful relationships to flourish.

Healthy communities require both compassion and courage.


Part IX — A Living Community

Society Circle is more than an application.

It is more than a collection of Experiences.

It is a living community built through relationships.

Communities grow.

People grow.

Leaders grow.

The standards that guide healthy communities must also continue to grow while remaining faithful to the mission upon which Society Circle was founded.

These Community Standards are intended to protect that mission while allowing the community to mature responsibly over time.


60. Continuous Improvement

Healthy communities are never finished.

Every Experience, every conversation, every friendship, and every lesson learned contributes to a stronger Society Circle.

Members are encouraged to provide thoughtful feedback regarding:

  • community culture;
  • Experiences;
  • leadership;
  • Community Standards;
  • platform features;
  • accessibility;
  • hospitality;
  • safety;
  • and opportunities for improvement.

Constructive feedback helps Society Circle become a better community for current and future Members.


Learning Community

Society Circle values learning over perfection.

Mistakes will occasionally occur.

When they do, Members and leaders are encouraged to:

  • listen;
  • learn;
  • apologize when appropriate;
  • make improvements;
  • and continue growing together.

Communities become stronger when humility is valued more highly than pride.


Building the Future Together

Every Member contributes to the future culture of Society Circle.

The friendships formed today become tomorrow's traditions.

The hospitality shown today becomes tomorrow's expectation.

The leaders developed today become tomorrow's mentors.

Every act of kindness helps shape the community that future Members will experience.


61. Amendments

Society Circle may revise these Community Standards from time to time as the community grows and new circumstances arise.

Updates may be made to:

  • improve clarity;
  • strengthen community safety;
  • reflect new platform features;
  • comply with applicable law;
  • support Community Partners;
  • incorporate lessons learned;
  • or better advance Society Circle's mission.

When material changes are made, Society Circle will make reasonable efforts to notify Members through appropriate communication channels.

Continued participation in Society Circle after updated Community Standards become effective constitutes acceptance of the revised Standards, subject to applicable law.


Guiding Principle

Future revisions should remain faithful to Society Circle's foundational philosophy:

Communities exist to help people build meaningful relationships.

Every amendment should therefore strengthen one or more of the following:

  • belonging;
  • hospitality;
  • trust;
  • safety;
  • responsibility;
  • service;
  • meaningful relationships;
  • or community health.

If a proposed change weakens those principles, it should be reconsidered.


62. Contact Information

Questions regarding these Community Standards may be directed to Society Circle through the contact methods identified on the Society Circle platform.

Members are encouraged to contact Society Circle regarding:

  • questions about these Standards;
  • reporting concerns;
  • appeals;
  • accessibility requests;
  • leadership concerns;
  • safety matters;
  • or suggestions for improving the community.

Society Circle welcomes respectful dialogue and values thoughtful feedback from Members.


Closing Statement

Society Circle was created from a simple belief:

No one should have to build a life alone.

Everything within these Community Standards ultimately exists to support that belief.

Rules alone cannot create belonging.

Policies alone cannot build friendships.

Technology alone cannot strengthen communities.

People do.

Every smile.

Every invitation.

Every conversation.

Every shared meal.

Every thoughtful introduction.

Every act of hospitality.

Every opportunity to make room for someone else.

That is how communities are built.

That is how meaningful relationships grow.

That is how extraordinary lives are lived together.

As Members of Society Circle, we share responsibility for protecting the culture we are creating—not only for ourselves, but for every person who joins after us.

May we continue to build communities where people are remembered, welcomed, encouraged, and valued.

May we always choose relationships over transactions.

May we always choose service over status.

May we always choose hospitality over indifference.

And may we never forget the principle that guides everything we do:

There is always room for one more.


End of Society Circle Community Standards

Document Status: Complete


Society Circle Legal Framework (Completed)

  • ✅ Terms of Service
  • ✅ Privacy Policy
  • ✅ Community Standards

Recommended Next Canonical Legal Documents

  1. Community Partner Agreement
  2. Host Agreement
  3. Community Coach Agreement
  4. City Host Agreement
  5. Member Code of Conduct for Experiences (short-form event version)
  6. Copyright & Intellectual Property Policy
  7. Cookie Policy
  8. DMCA / Copyright Complaint Policy
  9. Law Enforcement Request Guidelines
  10. Safety Center & Trust Policy

Together, these documents would form an institutional-grade legal and governance framework that aligns with Society Circle's philosophy while supporting long-term growth and operational consistency.

Version 1.0.0.

Find Your Community