Fabrik’s third spaces are vibrant hubs where people can come together in real life, explore interests, forge meaningful connections, and build a sense of community.

Fabrik NYC

This three-part series is for anyone who loves their city but isn’t content to just 

 in it. Community-builder, and long-time friend of Fabrik, Tony breaks down the mindsets, maps, and momentum you need to move from newcomer to trusted local leader without burning out. Over three Tuesday evenings we’ll blend stories, step-by-step frameworks, and hands-on mini-workshops so you leave each session with concrete actions to take before the next one. 

Whether you just got your keys or you’ve been around for years and want to level-up your impact, you’ll walk away with a clearer plan and a growing crew to cheer you on.

Week 1: How To Become a Local Leader From Scratch

We shouldn’t feel like we’re just consumers of the cities and neighborhoods we live in—the more we feel like we are an active part of our local community, the more good things happen—especially if you’re looking to put down roots and live there long-term. 

When my wife and I moved to Norwalk two years ago, I started my “40 year community project”—figuring out how to put down roots and get embedded in the city where we plan to build a family and a life for the long-term. 

Before I knew it, I was involved in civic organizations and getting invited to leadership committees—and befriending many of the folks who run the city. 

In this session, I’ll share what I did to get established in my city and how you can do the same—and all the reasons why doing so is worth it. What we’ll cover: 

1. Mapping your city’s social infrastructure

Tony Bacigalupo led the charge to open Manhattan’s first coworking space, 

, in 2008. Much more than just a workspace, New Work City was home to countless Meetup groups and community programs, acting as a social hub for entrepreneurs and independent workers.

Along the way, he witnessed and supported the growth of the decentralized global coworking movement—seeing it grow from just a few dozen people in a Google Group to a household word that’s changed the world’s relationship with work forever.

Having worked with hundreds of community leaders, Tony has seen firsthand what it takes to build communities that can grow to make a global impact.

He wrote the 2023 State of Belonging Report and is currently hosting the 

. He is also publishing a series of zines called 

 and coordinating with the local government to make his new hometown of Norwalk the most belongful city in the world—and daring others to do better. 

 is a home for communities where everyone has a place to belong. With spaces designed to feel more like your living room than your office, Fabrik’s third spaces are vibrant hubs where people can come together in real life, explore interests, forge meaningful connections, and build a sense of community.

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Fabrik's Homegrown Series Week 1: How To Become a Local Leader From Scratch with Tony Bacigalupo