Joining a community to sail with others?

I have played around with old laser and 470 and enjoyed sailing. Due to having 2 small kids (too young to sail) I doubt I will find alot of time to sail with my wife. I will therefore mostly sail alone and want to find a community. I am planing to buy probably a used dinghy (laser or some kind of rs for 1-2 person).

I have no real theoretical knowledge and would do awful in a regatta. How could I join some kind of community even if I am still learning ? Do you normally take your own boats? Are there more fun-oriented regatta and not competitive ones? Or should I take lessons?

Thanks