Participating with the "right" network can lead to 1+1=64. Thus, it seems worthwhile to take a good look around and find a network where you think you'll be able to add value.
Find out what is important to your colleagues, your boss and/or your employees. Whether or not you can ever do anything to help with these causes, don't you think it would be good to know what is important to them?
I am certainly a believer that much can be accomplished remotely. Actually I am doing more and more to help my clients remotely, and we are achieving substantial results - and significant returns on investment.