I don't know if this might help any, but we wanted our new members and old members to interact more, and one thing we did was start a Free Table. The idea is to bring scraps from quilts, like orphan blocks, and offer them free. We thought it might encourage folks to interact over the table, sharing ideas and searching for something they might like. I think it has worked pretty well. At least it has folks speaking to more than just their favorite friends. If no one takes what you brought to give away, you are supposed to take it home with you. That works most of the time...
Dina