That's been me more times than I can count. Knowing that situation is my only choice makes me feel defeated before I even try.
Maybe there are more choices. When I read your post I thought of the starter kits on the Smart forum. Maybe a free ad on craigs list in your area. It might take time, but eventually maybe you could form a small group in your area. Then maybe that would take off and more groups could be formed. Someone has to start somewhere. You guys have a large group and it seems that everyone is disconnected. It takes time to bring people together. I wish someone would try it and see what happens.