Online Community Examples: Discover 4 Types of Online Communities That Build Engagement

Introduction: Feeling Connected in the Digital World

A lot of people feel lonely these days, and that might include you. The best way to deal with loneliness is to belong somewhere, and that’s where communities take place. I always say that people don’t want to be only educated anymore, but feel as part of a community.

Online communities are more than just groups—they are places where people should come together to learn, share, and grow. Whether it’s finding encouragement, learning something new, or just having a space to unwind, communities can add so much value to our lives. 

If you are a creative person navigating ADHD plus neurodivergence, there’s an additional component which is lack of visual connection.

In this article, I’ll explore some inspiring examples of successful online communities that are truly making an impact with visual virtual spaces. They’re stories of real people creating spaces that are super meaningful and supportive. Along the way, I’ll share some interesting statistics about the power of community engagement in our lives.
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The Value of Different Types of Online Communities for Coaches, Creatives, and Neurodivergent Individuals

Online communities aren’t just about convenience—they’re about creating spaces that feel right for each of us.

Different types of communities serve unique purposes. For example, support communities help people with common challenges, learning communities create spaces for shared education, and creative communities offer inspiration and collaboration.

For coaches, communities can be an extension of their support systems, where they can connect with clients and build ongoing relationships.

Creatives, on the other hand, find a canvas in virtual spaces—a place to share ideas, explore projects, and get inspired by others.

And for neurodivergent, it provides low-pressure, flexible environments where it’s possible to engage at their own pace. Many ADHDers even benefit from body doubling, a practice where people work alongside each other to help maintain focus and productivity. We’ll talk about it in a bit.

Examples of Successful Online Communities

Let’s dive into some real online community examples where people have built virtual spaces that feel personal, supportive, and one-of-a-kind.

Jessica Dugas: The Breakthrough Show Network

Jessica Dugas turned her idea for The Breakthrough Show Network into a lively community where creatives, coaches, and anyone passionate about self-improvement can connect.

By the time I joined her virtual space to see how her community works, they were all brainstorming ideas together and you could immediately feel the sense of belonging. It’s crazy to think this way, but once you belong to a community, you start thinking the same way of the other members. 

They have live shows focused on personal growth and wellness. Jessica hosts themed sessions where people discuss everything from managing stress to setting achievable goals.

Her community isn’t just about watching a show—it’s about active participation. The members contribute their own insights, share their journeys, and celebrate each other’s wins, making the space feel more collaborative.
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Peggy’s Resilient Creative Space

Peggy initially failed trying to engage with her members using text-based community tools. What really worked for her was gathering her people inside an open virtual studio where they could talk to each other and express themselves in weekly events.

Her community is like a digital artist’s studio, where members gather for weekly brainstorming sessions, creative challenges, and show-and-tell events. During the sessions, they work together on projects, give each other feedback, and discuss the realities of building a creative career.

Peggy keeps her virtual room decorated with artwork and inspiring quotes, making it feel like a cozy art studio.

Her members often say that it’s the ideal environment to work alongside others who understand the creative grind.

Peggy’s space has become a go-to spot for encouragement and inspiration whenever they need it.

Michelle Dale: Freedom for Digital Nomads

Michelle Dale created her community Virtual Miss Friday with one goal: giving remote workers and virtual assistants a space to feel grounded, no matter where they are in the world.

First time I saw Michelle was on her YouTube channel. She uses a combination of YouTube and LinkedIn groups to attract and engage with VAs all across the world.

As a premium perk of her community, she decided to use the platform GoBrunch to offer a co-working room open 24/7, where her members can pop in to share their goals for the day, chat during “coffee breaks,” or join monthly mastermind sessions.

The community is filled with remote professionals and virtual assistants who enjoy the flexibility of working anywhere but miss the camaraderie of a shared workspace.

The space is organized with a simple, open layout that feels more like a lounge than an office. Members can turn their cameras on for face-to-face interaction or work quietly alongside each other. 

Alasdair’s Language Learning Community

Alasdair runs an English learning community that feels like a coffeehouse meetup rather than a typical language class.

His virtual room is set up for conversation practice, where students take turns sharing stories, asking questions, and practicing everyday phrases. 

He often leads group discussions on interesting topics like travel, culture, and current events, keeping the atmosphere relaxed and enjoyable.

One unique aspect of Alasdair’s community is that he chose some students as moderators, giving them the power to lead sessions and support newer members. This approach makes the space feel more decentralized and encourages members to take initiative.

Key Benefits of Building an Online Community

If you’re not surrounded by lots of people, think for a minute about how powerful a community can be. 

In a world where we are always looking for places where we can belong, communities can give us the reason for our lives.

It can transform the way we interact, support each other, and even grow personally and professionally. Here’s a look at some of the benefits:

Building Community Engagement and Loyalty

An online community gives the members a place to check in regularly, share experiences, and build relationships. This ongoing interaction builds a loyalty that goes beyond a typical audience. In fact, communities can boost engagement rates significantly, with some organizations seeing up to a 21% increase when they have an active online space (source: Higher Logic).

Creating a Sense of Belonging and Identity

Being part of a community helps people feel like they belong, especially when the space reflects shared values and interests.

Members of Jessica Dugas’ Breakthrough Show Network or Peggy’s artist-centered space don’t just join—they identify with the community, making it part of their own journey.

This research even shows that 66% of branded communities report an improvement in customer retention, thanks to the strong sense of belonging they create (source: Higher Logic).

Supportive Environments for Personal and Professional Growth

Communities like Alasdair’s English learning group or Michelle’s co-working hub offer more than just interaction—they provide real support and resources that help members grow.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, many people turned to online communities for connection, with 74% of community programs reporting increased recognition of their value (source: Social+). These spaces give members a safe place to connect, learn, and adapt together, creating a positive impact on their lives.

As you can see, building an online community can really lead to improved engagement and retention.

What are the best platforms to build an online community?

Creating an online community starts with choosing the right platform—one that supports your goals and reflects the experience you want to offer. Here are a few options, each with unique features to consider:

• GoBrunch: Known for its customizable virtual rooms and user-friendly layout, GoBrunch lets you design spaces that feel unique and welcoming. Unlike text-based communities, GoBrunch allows you to create audio-video rooms like co-working hub, art studios, or learning centers. It’s ideal for interactive communities where you want members to feel at home.
  
  
• Mighty Networks: A text-based platform focused on social networking and content sharing, Mighty Networks is great for communities centered around discussions, courses, and shared resources. It’s especially useful if you’re building a community with structured programs and member-only content.
  
  
• Discord: Originally popular among gamers, Discord has become a versatile platform for community-building. It’s ideal for those looking to create a chat-focused community, with channels for different topics and easy voice and video call options.
  
  
• Facebook Groups: For a simple, familiar option, Facebook Groups allow you to reach people in a space they already use. It’s easy to set up, though less customizable than dedicated community platforms.
  
  

Choosing a platform depends on the type of community you envision. If you're looking for a space that feels interactive and immersive, GoBrunch may be a great fit for bringing your vision to life. If your folks are more text-oriented, then Mighty Networks could fit the bill.

Start Building Your Community on GoBrunch

If these examples resonate with you, maybe it’s time to create a virtual space that feels just right for your own audience. 

GoBrunch makes it easy to design an online community that reflects your unique values and vision. Think of it as building a place where people can feel comfortable, connect, and keep coming back.

Take a moment to imagine what your space would look like. 

Would it be a co-working hub where members can body-double and tackle projects side-by-side? Or maybe a cozy, creative lounge where ideas flow freely? 

Whatever your goal, GoBrunch helps you create more than just events—it’s about designing a space that feels like home for your members.

FAQ: Community Examples and Virtual Spaces

Q: Why are online communities important?
A: Online communities help reduce feelings of isolation, build connections, and provide support networks for both personal and professional growth. They give people a place to share experiences, gain insights, and feel part of something bigger.

Q: How do virtual spaces benefit coaches and creatives?
A: Virtual spaces offer a unique way for coaches and creatives to connect with their audiences in real time. They can host events, share resources, and create an environment that reflects their personal style, making the experience more engaging and memorable for everyone involved.

Q: Best Ways to Increase Engagement in an Online Community
A: To boost engagement, try hosting regular events, encouraging member interaction, and assigning community roles like moderators. Make sure members feel heard and valued, which helps create a welcoming and active community space.

Q: Why are supportive environments important in virtual communities?
A: Supportive environments in virtual communities help people feel more comfortable, leading to stronger connections and higher retention. Especially for neurodivergent individuals, a welcoming space can reduce pressure and improve overall engagement.
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In Summary: Building Your Own Online Community

The magic behind online communities is to build connection, engagement, and shared purpose. By choosing the right platform, understanding your audience’s needs, and creating a supportive environment, you can help the world to be more supportive and less lonely.

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