What is an “Authentic Community”?

Friend of mine asked me today what exactly an “authentic community” was in reference to my tagline and mission. It’s actually a great question and one I wish people asked more often.

I believe it is the intent behind building a community and within a community that makes it “authentic” or not. For example, most people try to, or get paid to, build communities around products or companies with little/no long term value. When the product goes away, or the company goes away, or changes marketing strategies, the community dissolves. An “authentic” community however is selfless, motivated to build lasting relationships and partnerships among those involved, transparent, and focused on raising the consciousness and awareness of everyone involved.

The community as a whole advances together

vs.

The company/people supporting the community advance while the community stays where it’s at