4 Ways To Make New Friends Fast in Metro Little Rock
Often it’s not the packing and unpacking that’s the most daunting part of a move, it’s building a new group of friends, a new support network. But don’t worry. We’re here to help!
The following spots are strategic settings to meet new people in the Metro— people who share the same interests as you do or work in the same field.
1. VOLUNTEER
Sharing priorities and passions with others is a good sign of lasting friendships. There are lots of opportunities in Metro Little Rock to donate your time to the causes you care about while making some connections along the way.
- If you’re an arts advocate... look into the Thea Foundation, which has programs designed to help kids find confidence, self-worth and perspective through creative expression, from experiences in many arts-related activities both extra-curricular and in-school.
- If you’re interested in serving the homeless population... look up organizations like Our House and The One. You can also find a church that participates in community volunteer work such as Trinity Episcopal Cathedral in downtown Little Rock.
- If you’re into providing meals for those less fortunate... check out the Arkansas Foodbank, which needs help stocking shelves and packing meals.
- If you love to help kids… Look into Make-A-Wish Mid-South, Junior Achievement and the Museum of Discovery for volunteer opportunities.
- If you’re all about animals... the Humane Society, Rescue Road, Out of the Woods, Rock City Rescue, ArkanPaws and many more are always looking for a helping hand from animal-lovers.
2. JOIN A PROFESSIONAL GROUP
Beyond the ribbon cuttings and grand openings, the Little Rock Regional Chamber and other organizations have built programs that bring professionals of all demographics together. Here are a few:
- Create Little Rock: This young professional talent initiative seeks to keep, attract and grow a competitive workforce, thus enhancing economic development. Members host events like Land in The Rock and Serve the Rock.
- 1 Million Cups: As part of a nation-wide initiative, the Little Rock chapter meets weekly to engage, educate and accelerate area entrepreneurs. Offshoot programs like Startup Weekend offer more intensive programming with peers and business leaders.
- Pop Up in the Rock: This group of young professionals works to revitalize areas of the metro that need a little TLC. Community-oriented improvements range from bike lanes to entertainment venues, and the group puts on an annual event bearing the same name, which has become a local favorite..
- Arts groups: Check in with organizations that appeal to you to see what they offer. For example, the Arkansas Repertory Theatre and Arkansas Symphony Orchestra both have groups for professionals who enjoy the performing arts.
3. GO PLAY!
There’s a reason athletes refer to their teams as family, and Metro Little Rock has no shortage of options for those who love the active lifestyle. If tennis is your thing, check out the Arkansas Tennis Association. There’s also the Central Arkansas Volleyball Association if you like your nets a little taller, and if you like them taller than you are, check out several of the soccer clubs. United Soccer Club is one that’s popular with youths, if your children are looking to make friends and stay active. Running groups are all over, just visit ArkansasRunner.com to find a troupe near you. There’s even the Little Rock Kickball Association, where fun is first and foremost.
4. TAKE A CLASS OR JOIN A CLUB
If your goal in life is to never stop learning (or if you just like gaining new skills), you’ll find a match in the metro, right alongside other central Arkansans looking to do the same.
- The Arkansas Arts Center offers courses on everything from drawing and photography to professional development.
- Aiming for something a little more savory? Try the cooking classes at Eggshells Kitchen Co., which put well-known local chefs at the helm to share their specialties. Now you don’t have an excuse to not throw a dinner party for your new acquaintances.
- If you’re more of an outdoor athlete, look into Arkansas Heels on Wheels, Arkansas Bicycle Club and Little Rock Roadrunners.
- If you’re big into beer, rest assured that Little Rock has you covered. Between the Central Arkansas Fermenters club and the Little Rock Brew Bus, which takes you safely from brewery to brewery, your beer needs will be met.
- If you’re looking to cut a rug, Rock City Dance Center offers a variety of adult dance classes to help step up your dance moves. Adult ballet, Hip-Hop and tap classes are offered at night to work with any schedule. It’s never too late to learn!
- It’s always a good time to pick up a new exercise routine. Look into different options like those offered at ZenSpin in west Little Rock such as Barre, Pilates and Zen Cycle.
- For all the bibliophiles out there, look no further than the Central Arkansas Library System (CALS) for book clubs galore. Clubs like the Lunchtime Book Group, The Page Turners, Evening Book Clubs and even online book clubs are offered at a number of library locations around the metro area.
BONUS TIP:
Pet lovers unite! Head to a dog park or a pet-friendly patio to strike up a conversation with fellow fur baby owners. Fast friendships are likely to ensue (and not just for Fido). Check out Metro Little Rock's list of dog parks, Fido-friendly patios, pet events and more.
