I would absolutely seek out volunteer groups, hobby groups, classes, etc if you are looking for friendship and serious romantic partnerships. If you are shy, the volunteer groups will instantly give you a talking point with fellow volunteers and then you can feel out conversation. You might not end up dating anyone from the group but do you know who most volunteers are? Retirees and old ladies. Do you know who likes to match make? Old ladies. So you may end up volunteering at the hospital or museum with Agnes who has a single granddaughter.

My cousin moved to a new state and had a hard time meeting friends. She ended up joining a knitting group and when she told them she was thinking about moving back home their hearts were broken. They didn't want to lose a new and YOUNG member so they found her a date that led to marriage!