New Neighbors: The Heart of Connection at The Landings

Getting moved and settled in a new town, neighborhood or home can be overwhelming to say the least. When is garbage collection day? Where’s the closest grocery store? Will we like our new neighbors? There is so much uncertainty … but it doesn’t have to be that way when moving to and living in The Landings. 

Joining New Neighbors, the community social organization that serves as a bridge to life in The Landings, is more than just a way to meet new people — it is the heart of what living in The Landings is all about. It is one of the Landings life highlights that brings people together in a way that truly feels like home. 

With membership currently exceeding 800 people, New Neighbors offers an open invitation to form connections through a diverse array of activities and more than 30 groups. From creative arts to outdoor adventures, gatherings over shared interests provide a natural and meaningful way to establish friendships in a new environment. Introverts and extroverts alike find their footing within its welcoming embrace. 

Spotlighting the Spirit of Inclusivity 

Outgoing New Neighbors President Luanne Samson has experienced firsthand the incredible impact the organization has on residents. Reflecting on her journey, she recalls how she first encountered the organization during a Discovery Visit to The Landings. 

“I came here four years ago, knowing very little about New Neighbors. But once I joined, I found a welcoming space where people truly wanted to help newcomers feel at home,” she said. 

That spirit of inclusivity defines New Neighbors, founded in 1990. Unlike other groups, it is designed exclusively to foster friendships—deliberately avoiding religious or political affiliations — ensuring that the focus remains on building genuine connections. The organization has transformed lives, creating an environment where social circles flourish naturally. Many members even believe that The Landings wouldn’t be as vibrant, homey and inviting without this built-in network for meeting people. 

One of the most unique aspects of New Neighbors is its member-driven approach. Those with passions and interests can initiate new groups, tailoring activities to what excites them. Samson did just that by launching Local Flavors, a gathering for food lovers eager to explore Savannah’s markets and small businesses.  

A sample of some of the other groups includes: 

• Mahjong
• Biking
• Lively Ladies
• Golf
• Bridge
• Walking
• Happy Hours
• Community Service Events
• Needle Arts
• Nature Tours
• Military Tours

The variety of activities allows friendships to form organically, centered around shared experiences and exploration. 

There are several book clubs that meet on a regular basis, as well, to expand your mind through reading and conversations. There also are several community service groups that pay it forward by helping those in need in your new hometown. 

Additionally, there are Discover Savannah groups that take day trips to the Port and other interesting areas around downtown Savannah, as well as groups for water lovers who want to explore some of Georgia’s 2,000 miles of tidal shoreline by boat. 

Membership in the Landings Golf & Athletic Club is not required to join New Neighbors but may be required for certain activities. For instance, you must have the appropriate Club membership to play golf or tennis, but no membership is needed for tours, happy hours, volunteer service, and many of the dining and social activities. 

Welcoming New Members, No Matter Where They Are in Life 

New Neighbors is primarily composed of individuals in their later working years, nearing retirement or already retired. While families with young children are always welcome, they may not be the primary demographic. However, empty nesters often find themselves looking for a new circle of friends—and New Neighbors is a great place to start. 

Membership, $100 per person for three years, isn’t restricted to only newcomers; in fact, people who have lived in The Landings for several years can join if they never have before. Oftentimes, many residents choose to wait until they’ve settled into their home and daily routine before diving into the social scene. Membership in New Neighbors lasts three years. 

As Samson prepares to pass leadership to incoming President Lori Woods on July 1, the excitement continues. The official season kickoff in September ushers in another year of camaraderie, discovery and new beginnings. 

“We live in the best place ever, and that’s because of the incredible friendships created in New Neighbors,” Samson says. “It’s about friendship, sportsmanship and kindness. It’s just so inspirational.” 

FAQ 

Can my visiting friend join me in activities? Generally, New Neighbors activities are only open to members of The Landings New Neighbors. However, Activity Chairs may determine if Guests are excluded or limited at any single activity or event. 

How much do activities cost? Many activities are free. Those that have a cost vary widely, based on what is offered. We try to provide a range of activities to fit any budget. 

When does the “season” begin/end? Many activities take place all year long, but most social activities take place from September through May. We launch the season of activities in September with our Kick-Off Event, a great time to learn about all our activities and meet our Activity Chairs and the NN Board for the upcoming year. 

How does New Neighbors make money? New Neighbors is a nonprofit organization. We collect dues that pay for our operating expenses, including insurance, website and other communication and marketing expenses, and some costs associated with full-membership events. Activities are priced to break even; they are not expected to make or lose money. 

Ready to Settle In? 

Moving to a new town or home doesn’t have to be as overwhelming as you might think. Getting involved in all that The Landings life has to offer will make it feel like home in no time. 

Interested in learning more about all the special groups available to residents of The Landings? Plan your Discovery Visit today.