This feels obvious on the face of it, but when we run paid communities where members lose access after a period of time or through non-payment then we can see how much of a challenge building community can be when experienced members leave.
This is also why I’m a fan of lifetime membership models.
Yes, a million times yes!!
Also because:
1) People tend to grow wiser, in general, as time passes. So as their wisdom deepens and they mature, the value they tend to bring also blossoms.
2) Community members who no longer fit as you shift, tend to fall off after the honeymoon period. When all the classes are completed, and the shiny event wears off, and the promises and good intentions drift to the wayside as real life takes back over.... the people left standing - THOSE are your people.
Your real niche is self-selecting over the long haul. We are a part of perhaps the first generation who will have a "digital community" as we grow into old age. How fascinating!