Open source communities thrive on active participation and collaboration, with members advancing through phases of involvement ranging from passive consumption to heavy contribution. Successful communities, like Grafana's, benefit from clear documentation, accessible forums, and transparency, which foster trust and inclusivity. The 90-9-1 rule, where a majority are passive participants, is a common dynamic in online communities, but encouraging equitable participation can help shift these ratios to more active engagement. Effective strategies include making contribution easy, celebrating positive interactions, and maintaining openness. Grafana Labs emphasizes creating a supportive environment where people can contribute at their own pace, gain expertise, and build relationships, ultimately fostering a "rising-tides-lift-all-ships" dynamic that benefits both individuals and the broader community.