Powell River residents are preparing to showcase the best this community has to offer for clubs and groups at an upcoming Newcomers’ Social from 7 to 9:30 pm Tuesday, April 23, at Evergreen Theatre, Powell River Recreation Complex.
“As a newcomer to the area, some years previous, I recognized how hard it is to find information regarding your personal interests when you move to a new community,” said Kim Miller, manager at Powell River Chamber of Commerce. “I thought a small get-together with groups, organizations and clubs would be a great introduction to all that the community has to offer.”
Participants at the event will be able to find a wide variety of groups and volunteer opportunities for all ages.
The Newcomers’ Social is being hosted by the chamber, Welcome Wagon, City of Powell River and Peak Publishing.
“When you move to a new community you can normally find businesses that you are looking for but it’s harder to find groups and clubs,” said Miller.
The event began in 2004 when Val McNutt, then general interest coordinator of the city’s parks, recreation and culture department, approached Miller and the chamber with the idea. It has been held every three or four years depending on the numbers of newcomers moving to the area.
Miller said that this event has been very popular with booth spaces filling up “within days of putting the invite out to all the possible groups.” A wide range of community groups will be at the event including youth clubs, seniors’ groups, outdoor recreation groups and service clubs.
This event is a good way for groups who do not have money to spend promoting themselves in the community to attract new members, said Miller.
Over 300 people are expected to attend this free event. River City Coffee will be brewing onsite and Save-On-Foods employees will be handing out samples. Staples will provide bags to collect pamphlets and cards.
