General FAQs
What makes amBi different from other bi groups?
One of amBi’s greatest strengths is that we understand that in order to have a social movement, you have to build a community first. We are about having fun and building friendships. So, we focus on the upbeat and concentrate on making ourselves healthy and happy. We understand that community healing, when needed, has to come from within.
What do you mean by “bisexual”?
Bisexual is a term that has been around for well over a century. It is derived from the framework that the founders of the LGBT movement invented so we could fight for our human rights. Technically, bisexuality refers to a person with both heterosexual (different sex) and homosexual (same sex) attraction. More poetically, it means “love beyond gender,” “love that knows no gender,” or “love regardless of gender.” While there are other terms that mean similar things, bisexuality is the only one that has survived across the decades and centuries. It is also the overwhelming favorite in the community, used over 30 times as much as the next most popular term according to 2023 Gallup polling. Bisexual is also a term that is understood across the world, in many languages, and also by people who may not enjoy the educational privilege of having studied sexuality and gender at the university level. Whatever term you use, we offer an inclusive space for all these Bi+ identities. Please leave any “label wars” at the door as we’re all on the same team here.
Do I have to be bi to join amBi?
You don’t have to be bisexual to join amBi. As long as you are “bi friendly,” which means supportive of bi people, you are welcome to join. amBi is a community of bi people, their partners, friends, and allies. Everyone who wants to participate as a positive member of the group is welcome.
What kind of things are off limits for amBi?
amBi is not a hookup group. amBi is not a swingers’ group. Although we grow bi community and spread awareness through visibility and outreach, amBi is not a political action group. We are a non-profit and do not endorse any political candidates.
Does it cost anything to join amBi?
It does not cost anything to join amBi.
Do I have to be “Out of the closet” to join amBi?
You do not have to be “out” to join amBi. amBi exists, in part, to offer a safe space for people to be themselves in the company of bi positive friends and allies. amBi is a private club, and your Meetup profile will only be visible to other members. Please be aware that our Facebook groups are public, however participation in them is optional.
I want to join. How do I do that?
It’s easy. Go to our website and choose the chapter in your area. Then, follow the link to that chapter’s Meetup site, where it is easy to create a profile and join.
What if there isn’t a chapter in my area?
If there is not a chapter in your area, you may want to consider starting one.
Are there any requirements to join?
In order to join, you'll need to fill out a profile. We require members to have:
A photo where your face is clearly visible (remember, only other members can see it).
A "real sounding" name. It doesn't have to be your real name (just sound like a real name).
Answers to the profile questions.
I’m under 18. Can I join amBi?
You have to be at least 18 years old to join amBi. However, if your parent or guardian joins amBi, they can bring you to family-friendly events as their guest. If you’re looking for a supportive online community and information about bisexuality, you may want to visit our friends at Bi.org.
CONTACT US TO ASK A QUESTION.
FAQs from members
How do I attend an event on the calendar?
The events page on our website includes direct links to each event’s Meetup page. Note that you must be a member of the chapter hosting the event to attend.
Can I be a member of more than one chapter?
Yes, you can be a member of as many amBi chapters as you want. Some people like to be members of chapters in cities where they visit. You don’t have to live locally to join a particular chapter.
How can I interact online with members from other chapters?
Ask your chapter’s leader about joining amBi’s Facebook group. The group has members from all of our chapters, and it is a fun way to get to know amBi folks from other parts of the world.
I RSVP’d for a meetup, and now I can’t go. What should I do?
You can cancel your RSVP at the Meetup page for the event. We ask that members please be courteous and cancel their RSVPs with as much advance notice as possible.
May I bring guests to amBi events who are not members?
It will specify at the event’s Meetup page whether or not guests are allowed (they usually are). It is ok to bring guests who are not amBi members (as long as they are bi-friendly people). We do ask that people who frequently attend amBi events eventually join the chapter so that they can be better included in the community.
Are there any family-friendly events?
Yes, there are family-friendly events. Usually, you can tell from the description which events will be appropriate for minors. If you are unsure, simply comment on the event or ask the organizer.
What should I do if a member of the group acts inappropriately?
We try to be very conscious of our members’ comfort and security. If someone is making you feel uncomfortable and doesn’t respect your boundaries when you state them firmly and kindly, whether in person or online, please speak to your chapter leader or an organizer about it.
How do I recommend amBi to a friend?
It’s easy. Just send them to our website - amBi.org. At the site, your friend can learn all about the group and join their local chapter.
FAQs from organizers
I want to post a meetup. How do I do that?
If you are an organizer of the chapter in question, you can post a new event by simply visiting that chapter’s Meetup site. Go to the main calendar page and click “Schedule an Event.” This feature tends to work better on the desktop version of Meetup.com, rather than the mobile version.
How far in advance should I post an event?
Whenever possible, please post meet-ups a minimum of two weeks in advance.
What should I do if someone RSVPs then doesn’t come?
At the Meetup page for your event, you can mark the member as a “no show.” If the member receives three “no show” marks, they may be removed from the group. Our Meetup sites offer templates for reminding members about the importance of being reliable with RSVPs.
Is it ok to post events from other clubs on the amBi site?
It’s ok to cross-promote other organizations’ events as long as the events in question are mutually-beneficial and bi-positive. It’s also important to make sure your chapter’s calendar isn’t dominated by the events of other groups, making sure you have plenty of events that are 100% amBi.
Can I accept donations for my chapter?
For legal reasons, we do not allow individuals to accept donations on amBi's behalf. Instead, please direct people interested in donating to our Donor Box..
Can you help me meet my chapter goals?
Yes. amBi is here to help you start, grow, and maintain your chapter. Our team of experienced leaders will happily answer your questions and offer assistance in achieving the goals of growing an empowering, local bi community.
In a world that often stigmatizes those who identify as bisexual, your generous contribution can make a significant impact in providing a safe and inclusive space for individuals to connect and celebrate their identity.
Through a network of chapters across the globe hosting different types of events, we strive to normalize bisexuality and create a sense of community and belonging for those who have often felt isolated or misunderstood. Your donation, no matter the amount, can continue to build and maintain a vibrant, visible bisexual community and make real progress on social issues that matter to bi people.
Thank you for supporting our non-profit!