Community groups in rural Chatham-Kent are taking a different approach to attract new members.
Residents will have a chance to learn about the existing groups in their community at an upcoming information day in Ridgetown.
Event organizer Helen Imeson said many groups have found it tough to recruit new members because of the pandemic. Now with nearly all COVID-19 pandemic restrictions lifted, the Ridgetown and District Agricultural Society can host the event in person.
"We came up with the idea before the pandemic, but it got halted when COVID-19 hit," said Imeson. "We feel that now is the ideal time for it."
The free event will give community groups an opportunity to set up a booth and showcase themselves to the public. It will be hosted at the Ridgetown Arena on May 14 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
"We're hosting the event to let the public know what is available to join in the area," said Imeson. "Most groups these days are desperately looking for new members. I don't know if it's just the times but there is certainly a need for the community to know [what's out there] again."
Organizers are still looking for groups to book a table. Imeson said the society is looking for service clubs, sports clubs, activity clubs for seniors and youth, churches, and more.
Some groups that have already signed up included the Ridgetown Rotary, Tilbury Historical Society, Ridgetown Curling Club, Living Chatham-Kent, South-Kent Minor Hockey, and more.
"Our biggest hope is to see a big turnout," said Imeson. "We hope the public comes out and sees what there is."
For more information about booking a table, you can visit the Ridgetown and District Agricultural Society Facebook page.
