I have always felt that it is best if there be someone in the group designated to "befriend" any person who is at the group for the first time or actually perhaps the first year. This person should be a long term member who recognizes a new face, or should receive the information that there is a new person visiting the group from the president. She should sit next to the new person and explain any peculiarities, such as "we always have a fifty cent raffle after lunch", or "they are speaking of an unfortunate incident that occurred at the last lace day". She should introduce the new member to others trying to hone in on some commonality of interest, or point of conversation, that will form a bond between the new person and other individuals in the group. When other members insult the guest, it is this person's job to roll her eyes and later say the insult was delivered by someone who (1) does not really express the views of the group, (2) is exhausted by caring for sick relatives, or (3) is really a nice person once you get to know them. If there is no formally dedicated person in one's group, perhaps one should attempt to fill the role informally. I think there is a lot more retention of new members when there is a specified "friend". Devon
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