Home > Social Butterfly > Archives > 2008 > March > 05 > Entry
New to town and looking to plug in
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
I’ve received a couple of similar emails recently, from folks looking to plug into Atlanta’s social-civic scene. I responded to both with some suggestions but thought I’d throw it open to your thoughts as well.
Here are excerpts to give you a gist. The first is from a young woman; the second’s from a guy. I’ve removed names and other identifying info to respect their privacy. Which local organizations should these folks look into?
We were chatting today about getting involved in organizations. I am 25 years old and live with my fiance in Atlanta. I would like for the organization to have a social aspect along with some charitable aspect. I love animals, but I am not limited to this type of charity. I was considering joining Junior League of Atlanta but I am not sure if this is good for me.
I recently moved to here in late Sept and live in mid-town, I have read your column in the past and is always good. I am writing this because I do not know anyone in town. I just thought you might be able to give me some ideas on where to go to get involved in the community and mingle? I am just really having a hard time adjusting to the South and the vibe here and people.




DEL.ICIO.US



Comments
By BlacKat
March 6, 2008 3:01 PM | Link to this
I think the Junior League of Atlanta is an excellent organization to join for any women. It has a nice mix of social and service aspects. It is a great way to make new friends in the community because they place you in small groups to start with. You’ll instantly have 10-15 people you know really well and do activities with. All the small groups meet together, so you can get to know lots of people. But you also get to make a HUGE impact on the community, specifically women and children. If you love animals, the placement at Chastain Horse Park might be perfect for you!
I do not know as much about co-ed or male organizations, but I have heard wonderful things about the Jaycees. It also has a nice mix of social and service with monthly meetings to meet other members with guest speakers.
Welcome to Atlanta!
By Romrose
March 7, 2008 10:36 AM | Link to this
Are you interested in art? Art Partners at the High Museum is a great group. And the High Museum now has a Young Patron membership group targeting those ages 25-39. They host several social for Young Patrons of the museum to mix and mingle. And if you like working with kids, HERO for CHildren is a great organization to get involved with. They support HIV affected and infected kids in Georgia. HERO is a young organization, the founders are both in their late 20’s and most of the volunteers rage in age from early 20’s to mid 30’s. This would be a great thing for both you and your husband to get involved with. www.heroforchildren.org. Check them out. I agree that the Jaycees are also great, as is the Junior League. Welcome to Atlanta!!!!!
By SC
March 7, 2008 4:42 PM | Link to this
When spring hits, Cocktails in the Garden at the Atlanta botanical garden is a really fun way to meet people your age in a beautiful setting. Every Thursday night May - Sept 6pm-10pm. Features a themed cocktail, live DJ and of course gorgeous flowers in a stuninng setting.
By SC
March 7, 2008 4:44 PM | Link to this
When spring hits, Cocktails in the Garden at the Atlanta botanical garden is a really fun way to meet people your age in a beautiful setting. Every Thursday night May - Sept 6pm-10pm. Features a themed cocktail, live DJ and of course gorgeous flowers in a stuninng setting.
By fern
March 11, 2008 11:38 AM | Link to this
Definitely Fernbank Museum of Natural History! They have a great young volunteer group (Artemis) that puts on an annual fundraiser to raise money for BONES for Kids (Building ON Experiences in Science). It’s a ton of fun and a great way to meet new civic-minded, social people. www.fernbankmuseum.org