Join the club

Photo by Jorden Dixon. Joanna Pesta, clubs co-ordinator for the Students’ Association, is an enthusiastic supporter of on-campus activities.
by Rachael Frey
The Reflector
Whether you made a New Year’s resolution, or are just looking for a way to shake things up a little, January is a good time to get out there and try something new. The goals of student clubs range from social interaction, to helping others, to just having a good time, and the array of possibilities can seem overwhelming; however, membership in a club can also be extremely rewarding and can greatly enhance the post-secondary journey.
So, in the spirit of new experiences, here are profiles of just four of the over 40 options available for student clubs to get you started.
Harmony for Kids & Elderly
The founder of Harmony for Kids & Elderly, Bellian Oteri, grew up in Africa and has lived in several different countries. Everywhere she went, she noticed that there were children who were hungry and elderly people that were abandoned. “Because children and seniors are the most vulnerable to economic hardship, I am rising to be their voice,” Oteri said.
That’s why she started Harmony for Kids & Elderly, with the goal of reaching out to people in our community that need help, and making a difference for them. The club meets once per month, and also works on events and projects such as raising money to buy Christmas presents for seniors and kids with disabilities. All those who are committed to the club’s goals are welcome to join.
For more information, email harmonyforkidsandelderly@gmail.com.
Stitch ‘n’ Bitch
Stitch ‘n’ Bitch was created in 2010 to provide students with a way to get together to practice their stitching skills and share their creativity. “It has become a nice break in the busy school week to come to and do some fun hands-on activity in a relaxing space,” said club co-founder Claire Shaw.
Aside from sewing and socializing, the Stitch ‘n’ Bitch club has a goal to donate and sell their handcrafted toques, scarves, bags, “and other stitched goodies” at art fairs and other events. Any students (yes, guys can bitch too) are welcome to join, and you don’t have to be an artist with a needle and thread, or even have any previous experience.
For more information, email claire_shaw@live.com.
Whose Line Is It Anywho?
Whose Line Is It Anywho? is an improv group that meets up every week to play theatre games in a fun, relaxed atmosphere. The club has built up a collection of different improv games, but they are also open to experimenting with new games and activities. Whose Line Is It Anywho’s director, Nathan Greener, says, “we try to look at basic theatrical concepts without taking away from the simplicity and fun of the club.”
The goal is to have fun and promote laughter, diversity and friendship, and you don’t have to be a theatre student to take part. The club meets every Tuesday from 4:00 to 5:00 p.m. in the Jenkins Theatre.
For more information, email whoselineisitanywho@gmail.com.
Democracy Club of Mount Royal
The Democracy Club was created to empower and inspire people, particularly the younger generation, to become involved in the democratic process. The club aims to educate students and others about the ways that they can participate in democracy and politics.
The Democracy Club’s vice-president, Jermyn Voon, said they are currently looking to build up their membership and start meeting on a regular basis again, and would also like to expand on their goals with the use of social media and events. To that end, they are seeking anyone interested in the democratic process, and are also welcoming those with an inclination towards event planning.
For more information, email democracyclub.mountroyal@gmail.com.