I sure don't blame you for not wanting to make cold calls. Fred, Nancy's advice is sound here.
People do business with people they like much more so than particular companies.
I would only add that you should only join organizations that are doing things that interest you and get truly involved and committed. The guy that joins a group an runs around tossing out his business card is not doing himself any favors. Members will see right through that garbage. If you come on because you believe in what the group is doing and have a positive impact on the organization. People will see you in a much more favorable light.