school fete

So today was my first time helping out at our schools annual fete. Lots of things going on, lots of stalls staffed by volunteers - all selling donated goods/services to raise money for the school. I participated - helping out at the icecream stall... which predictably was very busy with all the kids around. It got me thinking though - on the one hand it felt good to contribute to the school, but helping out at the stall, and doing some of the pack down work afterwads, but in terms of the social networking that was acheived how does it stack up (not that this was the purpose of the fete mind you) against time invested online, in virtual social networks? virtual communities... how effective is that kind of activity in creating the social bonds so very important to us - how much of the interaction, with the selective memories most of us possess will be remembered? How co-hesive a group was formed from the day and what did most people take away from it. My experience while I was with the kids, was that I was somewhat isolated, because they have specific needs, and want to do things that I wouldn't necessarily want - things that sometimes stop meaning social connection. Perhaps the organising committee was able to establish much better working relationships - but for those on the periphery who were helping people who were primary organisers of a stall etc - what of our connection to the group... not everyone can be in that inner group - is my effort worth less social connection then the primary organiser?

That being said would the addition of online communication between the people/parents involved including those at the periphery have necessarily improved social connections - or would be just better informed? How does the knowing of status/progress/events enhance our social connection with a group? is it the same as being there?

enough questions for now