Being part of interesting activities and having friends are important. They give us something to care about and add meaning to our lives. The following are some helpful hints in locating activities and finding out the information you need to decide if an activity or club is for you.
Gathering Information
Local community newspapers (eg. The Metro, The Times) as well as the ”Winnipeg Neighbours” (published by the Winnipeg Free Press every Wednesday), are good sources of information about activities and interest groups or hobby clubs throughout Winnipeg. Interest or hobby clubs are very open to new members and all that is required is an interest in the club and its activities.
Other good sources of information about types of clubs or other activities include:
- Winnipeg Public Library – visit winnipeg.ca/library for online and in-person ways to socialize, learn, and connect
- the Internet – search keywords pertaining to your topic of interest
- public bulletin boards at libraries or in the community
- shopping malls or grocery stores and community organizations
Friends, relatives and acquaintances are usually more than willing to tell us about their experience and knowledge of social activities.
Getting Involved
After locating an activity or club you find interesting, there may still be certain information you want or need before making a decision. Often a phone number and/or contact person is listed. Possible questions you may want to ask are:
- Are there any costs involved in participating in the activity or group? Is membership required?
- When and where is the activity/event? Is it accessible by bus?
- What happens at the activity?
- Who attends the activity or club? (e.g., men and women or a mix of both, age range of people who attend, how many people attend or are members)
- Are there any specific skills needed to attend or become a member?
- How are new people welcomed?
Sharing the Fun
Going to new places or meeting new people is not always easy and can be stressful. It may help to go with a friend or let the contact person know you are coming. They will often make a point of looking for you and perhaps introduce you to others. It takes time to meet others and feel comfortable in a new setting. Give yourself and the activity a chance. You may be pleasantly surprised!