PNAMs are not extended bids. Bids are what you get during recruitment. PNAMs are invited for membership.

However, your statement isn't true because I know of at least on GCer who didn't even know about AI when she was approached by members of a sorority she knew at a professional level who thought she'd be an asset to the AA and organization. So yes, it was kinda out of nowhere. She didn't have to inquire about AI. She didn't have to sell herself to this organization because they already knew who she was. THEY APPROACHED HER.

From my personal experience, the AIs my chapter has initiated were mothers of initiates, university officials, and women our members knew from their community involvement. No one's ever approached us, we've always approached them.

And regarding the D9 forums...I think they're org. specific to an extent. They discuss topics that aren't always D9 specific, and invite non-D9ers to join in as long as the forum rules are adhered to.