BARRHEAD – Barrhead area churches, clubs, businesses and organizations are hoping to "Make the Connection" with area residents.
On Sept. 1, Barrhead CARES and the Barrhead and District Family Community Support Services are (FCSS) hosting the community's annual Make the Connection night at the curling club.
Barrhead CARES is a coalition of community members who banded together in 2003, initially as the Barrhead and District Drug Coalition, to combat the problems associated with the effects of alcohol and drug use in the community. In 2012, the group changed its name to Barrhead CARES to reflect its growing mandate.
Tresa Brodersen, a youth programmer at Family Connection Resource Network, said previously the Town of Barrhead (through the parks and recreation department) organized the event, but this year Barrhead CARES and FCSS took on the responsibility.
"It makes sense because one of the mandates of the coalition and FCSS is to connect people with resources in the community," she said.
Brodersen described the event as a self-guided tour where residents can approach groups or organizations and learn more about them and what they have to offer.
In previous years, more than 40 organizations have taken part.
However, Brodersen said this year's numbers are lower, but she noted typically, the event sees a rush of last-minute registrations.
Barrhead Regional Fire Services firefighters will also be on hand to host a free barbecue.
"There will be organizations and businesses that provide family support services," she said. "We will also have an author, a singer-songwriter ... there will be a wide range of resources for people to learn about and access, not just recreation."
Brodersen encouraged all residents to attend the event, even if they were not looking to sign up for a new activity or find a resource.
She also noted that recently many of the faces of organizations that provide activities and support programs people have come to rely on have changed and the event gives residents a chance to get reacquainted with them.
"Because the more we know about the services and resources we have in our community, the more effective we will be in our personal lives and as a community," she said.
Make the Connection Night runs from 3:30 p.m. to 7 p.m.
