Dear Kninjanin,
I have used forums only a few times when I needed information, but not on a regular basis. Once I had difficulty with CraigsList, and found someone on CraigsList help forum who stayed with me for several weeks and REALLY helped. The person never even told me their name, but very selfless just helped me work through the problem.
Also, occasionally I have gone to Apple forums for help with my computer. It is wonderful how many people just enjoy helping others on forums, I thought!