Welcome to Warren.
As the name indicates, that's what the Welcome Club of Warren County is all about.
The club "is a group of women who have recently moved or relocated to the Warren Area or are new mothers who are looking to meet new people," Welcome Club President Rachel Harvey said. "Whether new to the area or in a new stage of life, Welcome Club is here to ease your transition."
The group gets together once a month from September through May and holds a variety of social events throughout the year.
"We have a monthly playdate at a member's home for those members who have children," Harvey said. "We have family parties, as well as ladies only and couples events."
Events include game nights, soup and wine parties, spa days, shopping trips, playground playdates, trips to Chapman State Park and others.
"The purpose of the organization is to give members the opportunity to become acquainted with others in the community," Harvey said. "We provide an atmosphere of friendliness and helpful information for new members."
Not so long ago, Harvey was the one in need of that atmosphere and helpful information.
"Welcome Club has really been a lifeline for me," she said. "When I moved here I didn't know anybody, and with a little baby, I was feeling really isolated."
"I contacted the Chamber of Commerce, and they gave me a brochure on Welcome Club," she said. "I have been active in the club ever since (3 1/2 years) and am president this year."
The Welcome Club was once a part of Welcome Wagon. That affiliation has ended and the Warren Welcome Club is now an independent group.
Part of each member's annual dues go toward a charitable donation made by the club each year. Organizations receiving Welcome Club contributions in the past include the Warren Library Association, March of Dimes, and the Majengo Orphanage.
The club will hold a "Welcome to Welcome Club" event at 7 p.m. Wednesday, March 10, in the parlor of First Lutheran Church. "All interested women are free to come meet our current members and see what Welcome Club is all about," Harvey said.
Those interested in more information should contact Harvey at 726-1950 or visit www.warrenwelcomeclub.com.