NNAC 2026 Spring Summit & Social: Connecting, Learning and Growing Together (May 31, 2026)

On May 31, 2026, representatives from 12 newcomer clubs across Canada gathered at Honsberger Estate Winery in Niagara for the NNAC Spring Summit & Social. The event brought together 51 participants to exchange ideas, share challenges, celebrate successes, and explore new ways to strengthen newcomer clubs and member experiences across the country.

The Summit highlighted the tremendous value of bringing club leaders and club members together in person. Participants consistently reported that networking, peer learning, and the opportunity to discuss common challenges with people in similar roles were among the most valuable aspects of the day.

Key Themes and Takeaways

Stronger Communication Through Technology

One of the most discussed topics was the use of member management platforms such as Stack Team App. Clubs shared how technology can streamline communications, event registrations, membership tracking, payments, voting, and volunteer coordination while reducing reliance on lengthy newsletters. Several clubs have successfully phased in these tools over time with strong member adoption and support.

Building Engaged and Connected Memberships

Successful clubs emphasized the importance of helping members connect quickly and meaningfully. Ideas included:

• Coffee conversations and welcome events for new members
• Member meet-and-greets
• Walk-and-talk programs
• Social networking opportunities
• Membership care programs that proactively connect less-active members with activities and interest groups

A recurring message was that members may join for activities, but they stay because of the friendships and relationships they build.

Creative Programming Ideas

Participants shared dozens of successful activities from their clubs, including:

• Hobby and talent showcases
• Clothing and scarf swaps
• Wine tasting groups
• Language clubs
• Movie discussions
• Cooking demonstrations
• Cocktail-making events
• Art-focused gatherings
• Interactive workshops
• Community excursions
• Pop-up events organized by members
• Food-focused socials such as strawberry socials, dessert gatherings, cookie exchanges, and finger food events

Many clubs reported that food-centred and interactive activities are among the most effective ways to attract participation and foster connection.

Sustainable Leadership and Volunteer Support

Many clubs face similar challenges in recruiting board members, activity leaders, and future presidents. Participants shared promising approaches such as co-chairs, shared leadership positions, mentorship opportunities, volunteer appreciation events, and stronger support networks for convenors and activity leaders.

Learning from One Another

The Summit reinforced the value of collaboration among clubs. Participants exchanged templates, membership strategies, governance models, volunteer recruitment ideas, and member engagement practices. Several attendees established ongoing peer networks and communication channels to continue sharing resources and supporting one another after the event.

This information is a summary of two summit reports. Many thanks to attendees who sent us their notes or participated in the Survey Monkey Survey. Summit Reports are available for download here: Report 1 Survey Responses and Report 2 Breakout Sessions.

Looking Ahead

The overwhelmingly positive feedback from attendees confirmed the importance of continuing opportunities for clubs to learn from one another. Participants expressed strong support for future in-person gatherings, supplemented by virtual learning opportunities throughout the year.

We are pleased to announce that NNAC is planning:

• A smaller regional networking and learning event in Brockville in Fall 2026
• Tentative NNAC Spring Summit in the Victoria, British Columbia area in Spring 2027

These events will build on the success of the Niagara Summit by providing additional opportunities to exchange ideas, strengthen club leadership, explore innovative programming, and support the growth and sustainability of newcomer clubs across Canada.

We look forward to continuing the conversation and bringing together newcomer club leaders, volunteers, and members from across the country as we work together to build stronger, more connected communities.