Giving Back – Newcomers & Friends Club
Q&A with Sharon Roberts, Newcomers & Friends Club…
When was the Redding Newcomers & Friends Club established?
Redding Newcomers was established in 1954 when Maxine Thurman moved here from Ukiah and realized a need for a city hostess and an organization to welcome new women to the area. She applied for a business license and approached the Chamber to sell her idea. They wholeheartedly agreed, so she found a few sponsors and started knocking on doors of new residents.
What is the club’s core mission?
The main function is to bring women new to the area together socially to meet other residents and to acclimate them to the City of Redding and surrounding area.
Is the Redding Newcomers & Friends Club for women only?
Yes, Redding Newcomers is for women only; however, some of the activities do include husbands or significant others.
How has the club evolved over the years?
Originally, Newcomers was for two years only. Maxine felt that was enough time to assimilate into the community. Many women were not ready to leave Newcomers, as was evident by a tablecloth signed by the women known as the “crying towel.” They were encouraged to join another group at that time called the Jack Benny Club, but you had to admit to being 39 years old. In 1984, the Club changed its policy to include single women, and in 1988 they changed the bylaws to allow women unlimited membership. Then in 2005, the organization changed its name to Redding Newcomers & Friends and opened membership to all women in the Redding area. At that time, it was felt many local women were widows and needed a group like Newcomers to fill a void.
Why do you think the Club has remained successful?
The organization fills a need for new women that move to the community as well as longtime residents. Many women have made lifelong friends. Currently, we have 250 members.
What types of activities and gatherings does the Club offer?
The Club has a full calendar of gardening, books and writing, wine tasting, games, quilting, dining experiences, games and adventures around town. They have four large gatherings a year such as a fashion show, Christmas and autumn activities, and a summer celebration.
What feedback do members most often share about their experience?
They feel the Club has exposed them to opportunities in their new hometown. Women also share their own experiences and resources.
How can interested women get involved?
Go to www.reddingnewcomers.com and click on the “Contact Us” tab.
www.reddingnewcomers.com
