Moving to a new town can be overwhelming, but Montrose Newcomers & Neighbors (MNN) makes settling in easier. This welcoming group helps new residents make friends and explore Montrose and the surrounding area.

MNN was founded in 1981 by Rhonda Skiff. Though she retired years ago, she’s pleased to see the organization still going strong.

Char Proctor and her husband, Paige, joined more than three years ago, and Char has since become one of the group’s organizers.

“Due to the flexible nature of the group, our organizational structure has a loose committee,” said Char. “Members contribute whatever time they feel they can to keep our speakers, events and tours interesting.”

Members are welcome to attend as many activities as they’d like throughout the year. 

On the third Wednesday of each month, members take excursions to explore local organizations, cultural sites and businesses. Recent outings have included visits to Montrose Regional Airport, where they toured the new expansion, and the Ute Indian Museum to learn more about the region’s Native American heritage. They have also visited Montrose Recreation Flex Court, attended a performance at Magic Circle Players, toured the Montrose Press and taken a scenic leaf-peeping drive through Owl Creek Pass.

In addition to excursions, members gather once a month for breakfast at various local restaurants. Special events around the holidays and additional meal gatherings add to the fun. 

“When we moved to Montrose to be closer to our children, I gave up a 60-year tradition of Saturday morning breakfast with a group of men I’d known my whole life,” he said. “Thanks to Newcomers & Neighbors, I was happy to find a new breakfast buddy here in Montrose.”

Julie Larusson, who spends half the year in Montrose and the other half in Arizona, joined the club to build a social network. As a fiddle player, artist and bridge enthusiast, she enjoys being around people and said the group has been a wonderful way to make new friends.

Beth Bowens was drawn in by her love of history. She enjoys the frequent guest speakers who share insights about the area’s past and the group’s visits to historical sites. 

“Best of all, because we meet at the Montrose Senior Center, we have access to all the information, events and activities available through that organization as well,” said Bowens.

Some people remain in the group long after they’ve settled in, which is why it’s called Newcomers & Neighbors! The organization meets from September through May on the first Wednesday of each month at 10 a.m. in the Montrose Senior Center Meeting Room at 1800 Pavilion Drive. Annual dues are $10 per person.

To learn more, email bethcav25 @gmail.com or call Char at 970-417-4236.