For the last fifty years, the Augusta Area Newcomers Club has provided a welcoming place for residents to connect with others and enjoy fun and engaging activities.
“Our mission is to help new residents and those that have had life changes learn about and enjoy the area while providing opportunities to make friends and become involved in social and charitable activities,” shared Susan Salisbury, one of the club’s Past President and co-chair of the Publicity Committee. “A lot of our members are people who are not new to the community but rather they are people who have had life changes, often a retirement or death in the family; an event where they need a new circle of friends and something fresh and fun in their lives.”
With over 250 members and 30 activity groups, members always have activities available. One of the club’s summer events included a day at the Lucy Craft Laney Museum of Black History. Past events include a tour of the Savannah River Site, Fort Eisenhower Presidential Dinner Theatre, and interesting day trips.
“There are seven book clubs, Mah Jongg events, a travel group, a movie group, yoga, and more,” shared Susan. “We also have monthly luncheons and an annual fundraising event. There is so much going on with daily activities and something for everyone to enjoy.”
In addition to fun activities, there are many ways for people to be involved with the Newcomers Club. Members can participate through committees that focus on event planning, fundraising, helping disseminate information through the club’s website, Facebook page, and newsletters, and even participate on the Board of Directors.
“There are many people who move here or retire here who have so much to offer and don't really have an outlet for all of their talents,” said Susan, a local realtor with Blanchard and Calhoun. “The Augusta Area Newcomers Club offers opportunities to use their talents in a very satisfying way.”
Each year, the club chooses a local charity to support. Members collect donations throughout the year and volunteer at the non-profit, culminating efforts in the spring with a large fundraising event. This year, the club presented over $22,000 to the Drumgoole Family Initiatives project that is building homes for those who have aged out of the foster care system and need a place to live.
“My favorite part of the Newcomers Club is how we collaborate and bring our different experiences together towards reaching whatever goal we set,” shared Diane Evans, long-time member and this year’s co-chair of the Publicity Committee. “This year was one of our most stellar fundraising years yet and we exceeded our expectations in the amount we raised. We are so excited to be part of something that is such a positive influence in our community.”
The fundraising focus for this upcoming year is RISE Augusta, an organization that provides programming and resources to help children succeed in school and life.
The Augusta Area Newcomers Club membership fee is $40 per year and the membership year runs September to August. For more information, visit www.augustanewcomers.net or contact Susan Salisbury at 317-847-7216.