Something like what you have is an awesome start. It would be great to have it even more customized so it doesn't feel so cookie cutter. I know it is a starting point or proof of concept, but love that you've taken the initiative to show this can be done.

The forum that you created is the type of message board that is widely used throughout the web. It is easy to navigate, search and the user interface is pretty much standard so people can hit the ground running. It is the type of site that someone can easily browse and either find a new web hangout or know instantly that it is not what they are looking for.