Fix problems with the "Band" app at https://band.us or find a better communication solution.

Fix problems with the "Band" app at https://band.us or find a better communication solution.

I have been looking for a free real-time communication tool that will allow me to have a reasonable number of members without a charge, and have direct but private communication with other members in the group. For reasons of safety when inviting people that you don't know to a specific geographic location for the first time, other members should not be able to communicate directly via electronic means until they exchange that information with each other in person.  This system should ideally be able to send messages via all methods that a person might have available, email, android push messages, text messages, etc. This Band app at https://band.us appears to fit the bill.

I have requested support via the Band Help Center where I have received these instructions that appear to be outdated.
- Band settings gear icon > Remove or Unblock Members > Remove button on the right side of the member.
This selection to "remove or unblock members" does not exist.
- Profile photo of the member > settings gear icon > Remove member
This selection to "Remove member does not exist.

I have also requested support via Facebook here https://www.facebook.com/messages/t/BANDglobal where I was told over 24 hours ago that someone would get back to me.

FEATURES REQUIRED IN A GOOD COMMUNICATION TOOL
Free
A reasonable number of members without an upcharge charge.
Communication only between admin and members that have chosen to join.
Notifications via multiple methods email, android push messages, text messages, etc

For several reasons, I would really like to be able to use Band for this as opposed to something else but so far, I have not had any luck with the privacy settings that would make the app a feasible option.

Further suggestions are greatly appreciated.