Wow, The Big Social was BIG!! And very SOCIAL!!
Over 250 people enjoyed a festive evening and learned all about Aqus Community 2.0, and, with the fun drink token game, learned the value of creating connection…you got a drink! Thank you to everyone who came and supported us!
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The Aqus Community 2.0 project is developing the nonprofit we started in 2015 into a sustainable, ongoing organization
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We are also expanding our programming to the Eastside, to Newcomers, and to the younger generation, with new initiatives and partners
Combatting the loneliness epidemic, building trust, and bridging social and political divides: this is the most important work being done, especially at this critical time for our society. We are the only nonprofit in Petaluma whose primary mission is to do these three things - and to build social capital. Learn more about social capital.
Please do not hesitate to reach out to us with your ideas for new programming, collaborations, events, fundraising or general thoughts about continuing to make Petaluma a more socially healthy, connected, vibrant city.
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A note from Executive Director John Crowley
The Myth of Going It Alone
One of America’s most enduring stories is that strong people make their own way. The rugged individual—the lone cowboy—is held up as the ideal: self-reliant, beholden to no one and needing nothing from anyone.
Americans are taught not merely to value independence, but to avoid depending on anyone. Asking for help can feel like weakness. Offering help can feel risky: don’t lend your neighbor a ladder because you might be sued; don’t speak to strangers because they might be dangerous; don’t get involved because their problems are none of your business.
Over time, independence becomes isolation. We stop borrowing from one another, watching one another’s children, sharing tools, asking favors and solving problems together. These small acts once created familiarity, reciprocity and trust. Without them, neighbors become strangers and strangers become potential threats.
Individualism has given America initiative, freedom and self-determination. The problem is not independence—it is the fiction of complete self-sufficiency. None of us built the roads, schools, markets, institutions or relationships that make our lives possible. We have always depended upon one another.
A healthy community does not replace independence with dependence. It replaces isolation with positive interdependence: capable people who can stand on their own, but know they don’t have to.
That shift begins with small acts: asking for help, offering it, knowing our neighbors, and making ourselves available to one another. These are not signs of weakness. They are the everyday habits that turn a collection of individuals into a community. |
Join our Leadership Team
We're looking for a few people who want to become part of the team building this organization. Aqus Community is at an exciting stage of growth! Our mission is carried out through the events and activities we create; we have a core team of 20 people and we're looking for a few more – people who are willing to take ownership of important parts of that work.
These aren't occasional volunteer assignments. Each role is approximately 5–10 hours a week and is designed for someone who enjoys taking responsibility, working independently, and seeing something through from beginning to end. This is an unusual opportunity: to help build the organization itself.
Events Manager
"Make the gatherings happen."
Volunteer Manager
"Build the people-powered engine behind our work."
Marketing & Communications Manager
"Help the community discover what we're doing and why it matters.
If you are interested in learning more about any of these positions, please email john.crowley@aquscommunity.org
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Fundraising
Our 2026 fundraising goal is $100,000 and we are at 60% of the goal: we need more! Donations cover the costs of events, operations, new programming; all the infrastructure needed to support our work. We are a 501c3 charitable organization. Click to become a supporter.
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Exciting New Aqus Community Programs
The Thursday Morning Social Expands to the East side
Our Thursday Morning Social has been so successful at Aqus Café that we’re starting a second gathering at Eggspresso Café, in the Trader Joe’s shopping center on Petaluma’s east side.
Drop in at either location any Thursday between 8:30 and 10am for coffee and conversation. If you know someone who could use a little more community, please let them know.
Nonprofit Leaders Table Talk
The second Tuesday of each month, from 6–7 p.m. at Aqus Café. An informal, drop-in gathering for local nonprofit leaders to build relationships and share their successes and challenges. Details.
Mixers and Gatherings
We’re kicking off our fall season on Thursday, October 1st with the first of four Aqus Community gatherings and mixers: the Film, Video & Sound Mixer for professionals and enthusiasts.
Now in its seventh year, this annual gathering brings people together to make new connections, friendships, and creative and business partnerships. Get your tickets now—and help spread the word to everyone working in or passionate about film, video, and sound.
Upcoming Professional Mixers
Other important events
This Thursday, September 3: Join or Die is being screened in Sebastopol at 6pm. I strongly encourage everyone to go and see this important film.
We are also planning another Join or Die screening and a Joiners Fair for early 2027. Details coming soon. |
Quote of the Week
“The ‘Just Join Something’ talk I had with John prompted me to become more active in participating in civic and professional groups as well as starting my own.” - Sandy (Petaluma) |
Warmly,
The Aqus Community Steering Committee |
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Donate
Mailing Address:
Aqus Community
40 Fourth Street Ste 231
Petaluma, CA 94952
OFFICE ADDRESS:
133 COPELAND STREET
PETALUMA, CA 94952
EIN#: 47-2940838
info@aquscommunity.org
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