People talk over coffee in an illustrative photograph. The image does not show participants in Castlegar's Welcome and Connect program.
Photo credit: Vitaly Gariev
CASTLEGAR — A new program run by the Castlegar Chamber of Commerce is pairing new residents with local volunteers and will hold two introductory events Saturday, Nov. 7.
The Welcome and Connect pilot program offers informal meetings at The Confluence with trained volunteer ambassadors to help newcomers get to know the community. The Chamber says the program is funded by Castlegar & District Economic Development and plans to hold meet-ups monthly.
Volunteer ambassador training is scheduled for 10 a.m. to noon Nov. 7 at the Visitors Centre at The Confluence, 1995 6th Ave. A meet-up for new residents will follow from 2 to 4 p.m., with free welcome bags, local information and a chance to meet over a warm drink.
“Moving to a new community takes courage,” said program coordinator Catherine Zaitsoff. “Our job is to help people land well after taking that leap.”
Residents and prospective volunteers can register by emailing welcome@castlegar.com or calling 250-365-6313.
A new program run by the Castlegar Chamber of Commerce is pairing new residents with local volunteers and will hold two introductory events Saturday, Nov. 7.