There are a lot of factors that play into the decision to move – change is scary and you want to make sure you’re doing the right thing before making such a huge life decision! One of the things that is most difficult about moving, especially when moving to an entirely new community, is leaving behind what’s familiar and navigating new places, new people, and new routines. Getting involved in your new community right off the bat is important for making it feel like home. Here are a few ways to get involved:
1. Join a neighborhood app Times sure are different now than just a few years ago, right? Now, residents in most neighborhoods are involved in a neighborhood app, like the Nextdoor app, which helps neighborhoods make trusted connections, share helpful information, goods and services. This is a great way to get to know who your neighbors are and what kind of activity happens in your neighborhood!
2. Volunteer at soup kitchens, food banks and charities Most communities have volunteer opportunities and are always looking for volunteers. If donating your time is your thing, this is a great way to meet new people who have similar values and interests and to simultaneously make a positive impact on your new community!
3. Meet the neighbors We live in an era when it is oftentimes much easier and more convenient to stay to ourselves and communicate digitally (like #1 on this list), but there is nothing wrong with the good old fashioned approach of just walking up to your new neighbor’s door to introduce yourself and bring a batch of cookies!
4. Explore the neighborhood, walk the dog, wave! Sometimes we get so used to only exploring big cities, tourist areas and vacation destinations, but the hidden gems are often the ones right around the corner from our homes. Go out on a walk and learn what’s nearby, and say hello to other walkers, shop owners, and restaurant workers!
5. Support local sports teams Whether you live in a small town or a bigger city, there are bound to be some local sports teams – professional, high school, or little league. There are few better ways to get a taste of your new community than to be surrounded by the local pride you’ll find at an athletic event!
6. Attend a local church, join a gym, or take a hobby class Finding a church you love will lead you to people with shared values and at a similar place in life. If you’re an active person, joining a local gym or taking an exercise class is a great way to meet likeminded people with shared interests! If you have a hobby, like reading, quilting, or knitting, or if you’re looking to learn a new hobby, joining a book club, quilting club, or similar, is another wonderful way to meet groups of people with shared interests.
7. Get involved with the school
If you have school-aged children, attending their activities, joining the PTA, and volunteering at their school will allow you to meet other parents with school-aged children and learn more about the community and school district.
While moving to a new community can be an overwhelming experience, there are many ways to meet new people and quickly make your new city feel more familiar. Welcome home!