I took a chance and went to a retreat in another state. They were so welcoming that I go every year. It is all about taking that first step.
When the internet sort of took off, I asked on a bulletin board if anyone in England wanted to talk about quilting or get together when we were there on vacation. A wonderful woman answered and we have had a now 20+ year friendship. Quilting gives such an immediate common interest and quilters are great people.