As one of its main 2014 Strategic Plan portfolio items, the Sooke Region Chamber of Commerce is pleased to launch a Newcomers Club and will host the first meeting in late February.
The decision to start such a club is in response to the large number of people who have been in touch with the chamber over the past year, indicating they are recent arrivals who are looking for community connections and networking opportunities.
The chamber intends to hold monthly get-togethers and invite local community leaders and speakers to talk about the history, recreation, volunteer opportunities, local amenities, services and businesses, as well as other topical items that are important to the future of the community and its residents.
When asked why the chamber has added a Newcomers Club to its 2014 Strategic Plan, president Michael Nyikes said, “It’s a direct connection to community pride and economic development for the Sooke region. Sooke’s population is growing at a fast pace and this growth will accelerate significantly in the coming years. The chamber wants every incoming person or family to feel welcome and better understand Sooke’s history, culture, as well as the many local shopping opportunities in the area that can meet their needs – particularly in the retail and skilled trade sectors.”
The Newcomers Club is open to anyone who is relatively new to the Sooke region (+/- 3 years) and the chamber intends to host the monthly meetings until sufficient community interest is in place for the club to be self-sustaining.
The first get-together is planned for late February with the time and place to be announced. Interested people are encouraged to register by contacting the Sooke Region Chamber of Commerce office at 250-642-6112 or info@sookeregionchamber.com
