Finding your Edmonton community league can help you quickly meet new people when you arrive in Edmonton. We are one of the only cities in North America with a deliberate plan for creating these neighborhood networks of bringing together a neighbourhood – it really is a gem of our city.
Over 100 years ago, Edmonton began the development of Community Leagues – these are non-profit, volunteer run, neighbourhood associations – and every neighbourhood in Edmonton has a community league connected to it. Some have a physical community hall for gathering. Community leagues allow anyone who lives in that neighbourhood, an opportunity to become a member and participate in both the social programs and development plans for the neighbourhood.
Membership fees are often around $40-$60 for a year (individual memberships or family memberships are available) and grant you voting privileges, ability to register kids in local sporting activities, social activities, neighbourhood events and so much more!
These volunteer run local associations are a great way for you to make some connections when you first move to Edmonton. You may want to attend a monthly meeting to get to know some people. Choose to attend a social event hosted by the community league. Be bold and volunteer on the board of directors to share your skills and knowledge.
Managed by the Edmonton Community League Federation – community leagues are supported by the City of Edmonton. The city includes community leagues in planning meetings for future development, as well as addressing local concerns.
Every community league offers different events and resources to support their neighbourhood. Finding your community league – following them on social media, purchasing a low cost membership – ensures you know what is going on locally. Many community leagues also offer some neighbourhood watch programs to keep residents updated about any criminal activity or general safety concerns. There are so many benefits to being a part of your Edmonton community league.
Some of the many social activities you might find include:
- Walking groups
- Yoga and zumba classes
- Senior drop in
- Big Bin events for garbage disposal
- Easter & Halloween events
- Free skating at local ice rinks
- Community gardens
- Senior drop in groups
- Coffee groups
- Free swim days at local pools
- Summer BBQ events
- Winter festivals
- Family movie nights
- Neighbourhood garage sale days
- Community craft sales or markets
- Safety & Babysitter Classes
- Men Sheds
- Green Shack summer program
It’s easy to get started – simply check out the community league website, get a membership and choose the next event or meeting to go to. With over 160 community leagues in Edmonton – this unique to us feature is a great way to quickly get to meet people and feel at home in your new city.
