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Health & Fitness

What To Do When You Move To a New Town?

What were some of the things you did and organizations you joined that were most effective in making you feel connected to your new town and its residents?

 

The to do list when you move to a new town is endless.... I know that when I moved to Weston more than 14 years ago, the most important thing to me was to meet and connect with people, followed by getting acquainted with the town and learning my way around. Given my own personal experience, in combination with my buyer clients' experiences over the years, I am thinking that meeting and connecting with your neighbors and other town residents is especially important to you too. And so here are a few thoughts on where to start:

  • Get involved with local organizations that cater to your interests or hobbies. If you like gardening or reading, for example, join a local garden or book club. You can also do this online through social networking. Search for groups in your new town (i.e., Weston has a Women's Business Network on Facebook), and then join those that align with your interests.
  • Volunteer for the charities and/or causes about which you are passionate. This is another great way to meet people who share a similar passion for the same charities and causes that you do. What a fabulous way to bond with one another.
  • Join a Newcomers group. Many towns have Newcomer groups, and this is a fantastic way to meet people who have recently moved to town and are in the same boat as you.
  • Enroll your children in schools and activities. If you have children, they can actually be quite effective in helping you meet others. When I was a new Mom in Weston, I joined the WCCA, and I attended every event for my daughter's age group. This was single-handedly the best way I met people, who ultimately became my close friends. The ballet, gym and art classes helped as well. And if your children are school-age, join the Parent-Teacher Organization (PTO or PTA) and also volunteer to help if you have the time.  Working with others at your children's school is another great way to meet people and develop friendships at the same time.
  • Meet your neighbors. In some towns, this might be easier said than done. Sometimes there is so much activity in the neighborhood that meeting your neighbors happens by just walking out your front door. But this isn't always the case. Sometimes it requires a bolder move of knocking on the door and introducing yourself to your neighbor.
  • Join a gym or workout facility. If you enjoy working out, spin classes or yoga, this can be another great way to meet people who are interested in the same physical activities that you are. Not only are you exercising your body but you can also get the added bonus of making a work-out companion.
  • Visit Town Hall. In addition to making Town Hall friends, this will help you get better acquainted with the town, its government as well as its policies and procedures. Some of the most useful to-dos include registering to vote, getting your dump sticker if that's what you choose for trash removal and licensing your dog.
  • Make a trip to your local post office. This way you'll know that all of your up-to-date information is accurate so that your mail will be forwarded correctly. While visiting the post office, make sure to get the name of your mail carrier so you can meet him/her - your mail carrier can be a nice ally to have in your new town.

These are just a few of the ways to get acquainted with your new town and its residents; there are many, many more. What were some of the things you did or organizations you joined when you moved to your new town?  And what was most effective in making you feel connected to your new town and its residents? I can't wait to hear....

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