Ask HN: What do you value and look for in a community?

As this year draws to a close, looking back at the years past and the year to come- I can't help but feel a sense of longing for community.

Over the last year, I attempted to start a few different communities with various levels of success and I'm realizing that simply holding the space isn't enough for many. People look for incentives and if they don't see value, they understandably won't feel the need to contribute.

What values inspire you to engage with a community, and what do you look for when seeking one out?