Britney Ellis Rahman – Contributor 

September marks the beginning of a new year at Bishop’s University, and for so many among us, it also marks the beginning of a new adventure in a new town. It can be easy to get lost and not know which way to turn. But for anybody interested in community connection and involvement, either at Bishop’s or within Lennoxville, the opportunities are endless. 

Photo courtesy of Britney Ellis Rahman

The Students’ Representative Council is home to several student-run clubs, athletic teams, academic societies and student associations – which can fill some of those potential gaps in your schedule and social circle. The SRC’s website has information on most of them, but a few are worth taking the time to highlight in particular. 

The BU Pride Alliance provides a weekly safe space for queer people to hang out and meet others who are part of the community. Also working to raise awareness and provide advocacy, it is a no-obligation group with a significant positive impact on its membership. 

Games Club was founded as one of the original sober groups on campus. Currently run by Sage Offer, it is the place to meet new people every week, get together and have fun. As the name suggests, playing games and enjoying yourself are the singular focus. 

BU Outdoors is always up to something interesting if you have any interest in the outdoors, physical activity and adventure. All three of these groups are open membership, so whether your vibe is indoors, safe and quiet, games with friends or outdoors and high energy, you are never without somewhere to be and people to be with. 

These are only some of the available clubs, with many more to be found on the BUSRC’s website: www.busrc.com. 

If you’re looking for outside opportunities to get more involved in town, there are also plenty of opportunities! The Lennoxville District Women’s Centre is always open to new membership, hosts a variety of activities and events, and is often looking for volunteers to help advance the condition of women and girls in Lennoxville and the surrounding area. 

The Townshippers’ Association is another way to feel included with various events and community connections, including the Townshippers Festival on Sept. 20 on Speid Street. They also regularly recruit and accept volunteers, so follow them on Facebook and keep your eyes out for opportunities, or simply reach out if you’re interested.

Lennoxville at large is home to numerous other volunteering opportunities and non-profit groups, such as the Dixville Foundation for people with intellectual disabilities, Grace Village for the elderly, or the Options Pregnancy Centre. If any of these organizations interest you, please reach out to them.

Many students have come and gone through Bishop’s without ever knowing what was available to them, but hopefully, this can serve as a handy guide to make your experience more fulfilling and interesting. Lennoxville is a small village of massive potential and possibility, so get out there and explore!