Made new file for social events with detailed content in it

DISCOVER/16_social_events.md

@@ -0,0 +1,58 @@
+## Social Events
+
+Social events that take place during conferences—such as networking receptions, poster sessions, coffee breaks, and informal gatherings — are important opportunities to build community and connection among attendees.  
+These gatherings should be intentionally designed to foster inclusion, comfort, and belonging for everyone.
+
+
+## Event Timing and Format
+
+#### 🍎 Low effort, high impact
+- Offer a range of social event formats beyond traditional receptions or parties, such as coffee chats, group walks, or creative sessions.  
+- Include smaller or quieter gatherings for attendees who may find large crowds overwhelming.  
+- Ensure non-alcoholic options are equally available and visible at all events.  
+- Schedule events at varied times of day to include those with caregiving or other responsibilities.  
+
+#### ✅ High effort, high impact
+- Provide hybrid or virtual participation options for social activities (for example, online networking sessions or virtual poster meetups).  
+- Incorporate structured networking formats, such as “speed networking” or “topic tables,” to help attendees connect across experience levels or disciplines.
+
+
+## Inclusivity in Social Settings
+
+#### 🍎 Low effort, high impact
+- Ensure that all social events apply the same accessibility standards defined for the main conference venue.  
+- Provide clear directions or reminders about accessibility features already in place (for example, step-free routes or quiet spaces).  
+- Communicate inclusivity expectations to volunteers and hosts to help attendees feel welcome and supported.  
+
+#### ✅ High effort, high impact
+- Collaborate with the accessibility or logistics team to audit the social event space and make any temporary accommodations needed.  
+- Design social activities that are engaging for all abilities, for example, games or collaborative activities that do not rely on physical participation.  
+- Collect feedback from participants after the event to continuously improve inclusivity in future social activities.  
+
+
+## Cultural and Safety Considerations
+
+#### 🍎 Low effort, high impact
+- Remind attendees that all social gatherings are covered by the conference Code of Conduct.  
+- Use inclusive language in all social event communications.  
+- Avoid centering events entirely around alcohol or activities that might exclude participants from certain cultures or backgrounds.  
+
+#### ✅ High effort, high impact
+- Work with local community members or cultural advisors to design events that reflect and respect diverse traditions.  
+- Offer themed activities (for example, cultural showcases or collaborative art spaces) that allow attendees to share their backgrounds in an inclusive setting.  
+- Train event staff or volunteers to recognize and address inappropriate behavior promptly and respectfully.  
+
+
+## Budget-Friendly Ideas
+
+#### 🍎 Low effort, high impact
+- Choose simple, low-cost activities that focus on interaction rather than expense (for example, shared breakfasts, walks, or discussion circles).  
+- Encourage attendees to suggest or host informal social ideas during registration or check-in.  
+
+#### ✅ High effort, high impact
+- Partner with local community organizations or venues that align with the conference’s inclusion goals.  
+- Where social events have an associated cost, consider offering sponsored or subsidized tickets to ensure equitable access.
+- Develop a volunteer “social hosts” program to help welcome first-time attendees.  
+
+
+By designing social events that are inclusive, flexible, and accessible, organizers can strengthen community bonds and ensure that every participant feels welcome—both during and beyond formal conference sessions.