ABOUT THE GROUP
The Columbus Newcomers Club, a volunteer-led women’s social organization, formed in October of 1985, replacing the Morning Welcome Wagon. For years the Newcomers met on the third Thursday of each month, hosting speakers and events for women who were new to the city, offering friendship in a community civic service organization.
In the eighties, our “home” was Asbury United Methodist Church. Later, we held our monthly meetings at North Christian Church. In more recent years, the Foundation for Youth was where our members would gather for events.
In 2026, the Newcomers Club started meeting at our new home base, The Commons, while offering many and varied monthly activities throughout the community. For more than 40 years, the Columbus Newcomers Club has been welcoming women and fostering friendships.
KIND WORDS FROM OUR MEMBERS
“Newcomers was a wonderful experience. Arriving in a new country where your new hometown has a different language, customs, and weather, and where you don't know anyone, isn't easy. But Newcomers allowed me to meet lovely friends, socialize, discover new places, try new foods, do crafts I never imagined, and play Bunco (winning or losing). But the important thing was spending time together and laughing! It also helped me realize that I wasn't the only one going through this same process; and that, regardless of language, you can share a good time. I am very grateful to have been part of this wonderful group. Thank you so much, ladies!”
JAEL • MEXICO
MEET OUR TEAM
THE WOMEN BEHIND THE GROUP
The Columbus Newcomers Club is made possible by a small group of dedicated volunteers who help organize events, welcome new members, and keep our community connected. Behind the scenes, this team works to create the friendly, supportive environment our members enjoy. Learn more about our team below!
MARIA MCCARRICK
CO-CHAIR & WEBSITE
Hi! I'm from everywhere and nowhere, a former Air Force BRAT and spouse. While I'm not so very new to Columbus, having moved here in 2018 from neighboring Illinois, I'm always looking to make new connections and more friends. I work at the library and lead the Newcomers book club. Join us!
KELLY VOGT
CO-CHAIR & MEMBERSHIP LIASON
Originally from Michigan, my husband and I bought a home in Columbus in June, 2020. When Covid finally relaxed, I was so happy to find this group — it saved my sanity! I enjoy bringing people together for fun as well as learning experiences. Whether you are new in town or you’ve been around a long time, we all need a network of support, and you can cultivate that here with ease. Join us!
LIDKA MOCZULSKA
NEWSLETTER & MARKETING
Hello! I moved to Columbus with my husband and two small children from Poland. Found the Newcomers Club in 2023 and have been enjoying Book Club and other fun gatherings.
ANNETTE HOWELL
SOCIAL MEDIA
I moved from Germany to the US and eventually ended up in Columbus in 2014. I immediately fell in love with the international vibe of this midwestern city and finding the Columbus Newcomers Club in 2015 has connected me with people from all over the world. When you meet people from Sweden and then get invited to visit them there - that's a win-win :-)
LAURA LUDWIG
TREASURER
I’ve lived in Indiana my entire adult life. My husband and I moved to Columbus in the spring of 2024, and I retired in 2025 after a 37-year career at Eli Lilly. Entering a new stage of life in an unfamiliar city, I found Newcomer’s through a Google search — and the rest really is history. Newcomer’s is a warm, diverse, and welcoming group of women who genuinely care about one another and about making Columbus a vibrant community. I hope you’ll consider exploring our group — I’m so glad I did.