Karen Korody’s story
“My husband and I lived in Scarborough for over 20 years. In fact, I lived in Scarborough all of my life. Almost two years ago, we were looking to move and I started researching homes in the east end of Toronto, such as Pickering, Ajax, Whitby, and Brooklyn. But before we had made a decision, Carl’s employer announced they were going to move their office further west to Brampton.
We then decided it would be best to move closer to his work and Oakville seemed just the place, as I had heard many good things about the town. When I first moved here, I knew very few people and realized I would need some way of getting to know people in the area. I was grateful that the Welcome Wagon representative recommended I contact the Oakville Newcomers Club, which I did.
I attended my first social event in February 2006 and thoroughly enjoyed it. I was immediately made to feel welcome and had a wonderful time talking to the other members, all of whom were also new to the area. I was surprised to see how many were from Toronto and the surrounding area, and even more surprised to find out how many were from the U.K., Australia, United States, South America, Asia, and many other places.
The Club offers women a place to make new friends, gain a sense of belonging and get to know what the town offers. All of the members (about 125) meet once per month for an event which involves a speaker, a demonstration, or some other activity. Throughout the month, a number of activities take place, such as bridge, walking groups, dinner clubs, book clubs, moms & tots, golfing, skiing, pub nights, movie nights, etc. that you can choose from. There are also activities that include your spouse or children, making it easy for them to get to know other people as well.
You can get involved in everything from art classes to wine appreciation, and everything in between. And, if there’s something you would like to do or are skilled at, and no other member is doing it yet, you are encouraged to start one up. Getting involved is what it’s all about. In many cases, you’re not the only one interested, in which case, you will have formed a group, and formed new friendships.
The grand finale for the year is an annual dinner and fashion show in May where we get together to celebrate over good food all the great friendships, and maybe even new things, we’ve accomplished over the past year.
In fact, I enjoyed my experience with the club for those first few months so much that I offered to help run the club the following year – an experience that in of itself has been very rewarding!
I have been privileged to have met some wonderful people from all over the world, and women with various backgrounds. Yet, what they all have in common is that they are all very giving and caring. The best part is that I have made friendships that are sure to last. To anyone out there who has just moved to the area, I truly recommend joining. It will change your life.”
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