HOULTON, Maine — Whether you’ve recently moved to Southern Aroostook, commute here for work or have lived in the region for several years and are still finding your place, the Gateway Ambassadors invite you to attend a welcome reception from 5 to 7 p.m. on Thursday, June 18, at The County Co-op & Farm Store, located at 53 Main St.
The free event is designed to help people build connections, learn about the region and meet community leaders, local employers, municipal representatives and fellow residents in a welcoming and informal atmosphere. Complimentary refreshments will be provided.
Attendees are encouraged to arrive at 5 p.m. to enjoy networking opportunities and hear a series of brief introductions from local municipal, business and community leaders who will share information about the resources, organizations and opportunities available throughout Southern Aroostook.
While the reception was originally created to welcome new residents, organizers say the event has evolved to include anyone who wants to become more connected to the community.
“Not everyone who contributes to our communities lives here full-time,” Kim Anderson-York, chair of the Attraction Committee and co-chair of the Gateway Ambassadors, said. “Many people commute here every day for work, own businesses here or have recently relocated and are still building connections. We want them to know they are an important part of Southern Aroostook and that they are welcome here.”
The event is hosted by the Gateway Ambassadors, a volunteer-led initiative dedicated to helping people feel at home in Southern Aroostook by connecting them with local resources, organizations, and community opportunities.
“We often say that Southern Aroostook’s greatest asset is its people,” Anderson-York said. “This reception gives people a chance to meet neighbors, community leaders, and business representatives face-to-face. Those relationships are what help people feel connected and encourage them to put down roots, become involved and build their future here.”
Following the reception, attendees are encouraged to continue the evening by enjoying a performance by McGill’s Community Band, which will begin at 7 p.m. in nearby Monument Park.
Community members may stop in at any time during the event, although arriving at the beginning of the reception is encouraged to take advantage of the networking opportunities and presentations.
The Gateway Ambassadors program is a volunteer initiative that welcomes visitors, new residents, employees, and prospective community members to Southern Aroostook. Through welcome bags, networking events, local information and personal connections, the program helps people discover opportunities and build meaningful relationships throughout the region.
