Monday, 24 October 2016 16:09

How To Make Connections in Your New Community

Meetups

If you’ve never used Meetup.com before, now is the time to dive in. From book lovers to knitters, wine enthusiasts to skiing junkies, there’s a meetup group for just about every interest. And if you don’t find a group who is into what you’re into, start your own and connect with like-minded folks in your new neighborhood.

Joining a group is free, though some groups charge nominal event fees to cover the organizer’s costs. And there’s always another group to try if you don’t find the right fit at first.

Professional Organizations

If you’re already a member of an industry association, you just need to look up the next local chapter meeting. While it can seem daunting to walk into a room of strangers, you’re not completely starting over. Ask your former chapter leader to introduce you the leader in your new town. Set up a one-on-one meeting and find out if there are any volunteering opportunities. One of the fastest ways to make new friends is to be a part of a volunteer team. Working with others towards a goal can circumvent the awkward new-kid-in-school feelings.

Chambers of Commerce

If you’re a business owner, you probably already have this on your contact list. But even if you’re not, the local chamber can refer you to reputable service providers you’ll need. Find hair and nail salons, car repair shops, dentists, dog groomers, accountants, bankers and any other number of personal, financial, and household services. After the turmoil of packing up and moving, being able to find reliable service people in your new hometown will bring you peace of mind and make the shift much easier.

Parent Teacher & Childrens’ Sports Organizations

If your kids are in school, there are any number of parent organizations to get involved with that will be happy to welcome you. In addition to school-oriented groups, there are child sports leagues that are regularly carpooling and fundraising and will likely be happy to have you join in.

Dog Parks

This may seem like an off-beat suggestion, especially if you don’t have a dog. However, Denver dog parks are filled with people who appear at roughly the same time every day and stand around and chat with each other while their dogs play. This is the equivalent of the office water cooler because these are neighborhood folks who know what’s going on in the “‘hood.” They’re out walking their dog in it two to three times per day, so they see what’s going on. If you don’t have children and access to the immediate community that surrounds raising kids, a dog park can be an ideal solution. And if you don’t have a dog, no one will bat an eyelash if you say you just like dogs or you’re thinking about getting one and wondering which breed will work for you. In fact, that’s a great conversation starter.

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