New to the Area? There's a Club for That

Welcome to a new name.

The newly rechristened Newcomers and Neighbors of Oak Park and River Forest, formerly the Newcomers Club, is a nonprofit group that organizes social activities and service opportunities for anyone looking to get involved in the communities.

President Emily Hartung said the organization wants to promote a sense of belonging for those who move to Oak Park, or for those who just want to meet new people. There are a variety of activities, she said, including book clubs, a playgroup, wine tastings and barbecues.

“It’s intimidating to move to a new place,” Hartung said. “We want to help people meet some new friends and embrace Oak Park. Only recently we switched out name because we had a few people who were interested in participating but weren’t new to the area. Some have been participating for years.”

Newcomers Clubs became popular in the 1930s and 40s. In fact, an online directory of the clubs lists hundreds still functioning around the world.

This summer, the club held its first charity fundraiser at the to benefit the and the local . The event was very successful, and the group plans to do an annual similar event, Hartung said.

Recurring events include children’s playgroup on Mondays, a book club the last Thursday of every month and a monthly Ladies Night Out (the next one is Sept. 21), as well as various events that happen at member’s homes, such as a barbecue coming up on Aug. 27.

Any person considering joining the group is welcome to check out any event before signing up as a member. The group will also be holding a bake sale at the Oct. 15 t.

Yearly membership dues are $35 for families and $30 for couples or singles without children. The easiest way to get more information is to contact one of the members through the group’s website, Hartung said.

“One of us will for sure get in touch," she said, adding "and make sure whoever’s contacting us feels welcome.”