Clubs and Other Groups

ADOPT A HIGHWAY

Village Residents who participate in the Adopt A Highway program meet monthly (usually on the fourth Saturday depending upon the weather) to remove litter along route 15-501 from Weathersfield to Village Way and continue along Morris road. We meet at the Gathering Place parking lot, distribute bags, pickers and vests and gloves ,if needed. In the late spring and summer we meet at 7:30 or 8:00,depending upon weather and 9:00 during the fall and winter. The leader will make assignments for the volunteers and the team heads out. The pick up usually lasts for a couple of hours, depending on the number of volunteers. Help keep North Carolina and particularly the approaches to Fearrington Village free of litter.

AM BOOK CLUB

The AM Book Club is an enjoyable and enlightening experience held at our Village bookstore, McIntyres, at 10:15 on the 3rd Wednesday of each month.  Members select books at the end of the year for the next year’s reading and discussion.  McIntyres orders the books and members get a 20% discount.  New members are welcome.  

ARTIST STUDIOS AT FEARRINGTON VILLAGE

Artist Studios at Fearrington Village is a group of more than 50 visual artists who live and work in Fearrington Village and Galloway Ridge. We welcome all residents who create art or fine crafts to become a member. Our goal is to promote Fearrington Village as an art destination where artists live and create in a supportive community. Monthly art salons encourage artists to meet, share their artwork, and learn from one another. Events are held throughout the year to promote and sell our artwork. ASFV’s annual open studio tour, held in the Spring, draws visitors from across the state and is a favorite event for local art lovers and their guests. Several ASFV artists open their studios by appointment throughout the year and hold art classes.

BOCCE

Easier than you think, great exercise and socialization and playable year round!  Annual dues are $20.  There is mixed men’s and women’s open play on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 2:00 pm in the winter and 10:00 am the rest of the year.  Members are free to use the equipment and play at other times.  The bocce pitches are at the end of Benchmark in the Historic District. 

BULLS & BEARS INVESTMENT CLUB

A partnership of Fearrington residents wishing to improve their knowledge of investing. All partners are encouraged and expected to take a lively interest in the affairs of the club. Prospective members are invited to join us as guests. We typically meet on the second Friday of each month at 9:30 AM. 

CARD KNIGHTS

The Card Knights is a Fearrington club for poker players. All adult Fearrington residents are welcome to join. It meets on Monday nights at The Gathering Place. Ninety-eight percent of the meeting time is devoted to the poker game! The poker games played are five-card draw and its derivatives, Jacks or better to open, etc., and seven-card stud and its derivatives, Texas hold ’em and Omaha. The group does not play wild card and high/low games. These are all low-stakes poker games. The buy-in is five dollars ($5). For this amount one can have all the excitement and fun as in a more expensive game. The Monday night game begins at 7 pm and ends promptly at 9 pm. Again, all Fearrington residents are welcome.

CYCLISTS – FMOB

If you enjoy the comraderie of group cycling, you are invited to join FMOB-Fearrington Men on Bicycles. Despite the name, women are more than welcomed, as are riders from other areas. Our rides last between 1.5 to 2.5 hours and we cover between 25 and 40 miles on country roads. Most important is that we nearly always share an after-ride coffee to discuss life in general. We stop and regroup, if necessary, along the way; NO ONE IS EVER DROPPED OR LEFT BEHIND. Safety is of utmost importance and we try to ride scenic and quiet roads. Most often we start at Fearrington Village, but other starting point are also used. Rides are typically organized on-line the day before and are, of course, dependent on the weather.

DINING FEARRINGTON STYLE

Informal dinners are held two to three times a year on specified dates in host homes for great conversation and fun. This neighbor-to-neighbor project attracts repeat long-time and new Fearrington residents. Volunteer hosts select the entrée, coffee and tea, and coordinate guest-provided side dishes, appetizers, salads, and desserts. BYOB is de rigueur to accompany appetizers and dinner. Guests are assigned to hosts based on host dining-table capacity, attempts to accommodate dietary limitations, and mixing guests from different neighborhoods. Dinner events and deadlines for guest signups are announced well in advance in the FHA Newsletter.

DUPLICATE BRIDGE CLUB

The Fearrington Duplicate Bridge Club meets Wednesdays at 1 p.m. This club belongs to the American Contract Bridge League and has its own registered director. Group generally plays 24 boards. Games are stratified so that novices as well as more experienced players can compete.

FEARRINGTON BOYS’ CLUB

The Fearrington Boys’ Club is a men’s luncheon group that meets on the second Thursday of the month, except during the July and August. We share a glass of wine, followed by good food, good conversation and random seating to promote fellowship. The club, founded in 1980, does not have any speakers or dues. Reservation and payment for lunch is required the Monday before the meeting.

FEARRINGTON CARES

A non-profit organization funded by Fearrington residents to provide support, services, and programs for residents of Fearrington., Fearrington Cares, through its volunteers and staff, exists to provide information, services and activities that foster the health, well-being and independence of the residents of Fearrington Village.

FEARRINGTON CONCERT SERIES

The Series was founded 30 years ago by residents interested in chamber music. Each year we offer a program of chamber music and other concerts, featuring eminent local and visiting ensembles and solo performers. We like to feature musicians who introduce audience members to works they are less familiar with, or who will explain novel aspects of the music.

We look forward to welcoming you to a new season. All performances will take place in The Gathering Place on Sunday afternoons at 3:00 pm. Season subscriptions are available, and walk-ins are welcome if space is available. See the current ticket order form by clicking on “Fearrington Concert Series” above.

FEARRINGTON DEMOCRATIC CLUB

The Fearrington Democratic Club provides opportunities for Fearrington and Galloway Ridge residents to hear and discuss issues of political and social concern involving Democratic Party candidates and officeholders, and experts from academic and non-profit organizations. We also encourage and support participation in public affairs.

FEARRINGTON DOG CLUB

Do you enjoy learning about canine behavior, health and culture? If you answered “Yes!” the Fearrington Dog Club may be for you.

Education and the opportunity to socialize with other dog enthusiasts are the goals of our new club getting underway in the fall of 2022. We plan to host speakers on a variety of canine related topics and, of course, allow time for meeting and socializing with other Fearrington dog lovers. Feel free to check us out at an upcoming meeting or two. If you like us, we hope you will become a member.

Our meetings are are held at The Gathering Place most months between September and May. Watch for meeting announcements in The Belted Gazette. For details about upcoming meetings dates and more click here.

FEARRINGTON DRAGONS MAH JONGG CLUB

Mah Jongg, a tile game of skill and luck, is very popular at Fearrington. To bring Village Mah Jongg lovers together, the Fearrington Dragons was formed. The Dragons meet monthly on the second Saturday of the month from 1 to 4 p.m., at the Gathering Place. National Mah Jongg League rules are followed and participants are asked to bring their current Mah Jongg cards. Knowledge of the game is required although there are accommodations for those preferring to play at a slower pace. To be afforded an opportunity to play with various opponents, players rotate to different tables hourly. Water and snacks are provided (when allowed by COVID guidelines). Membership is $25 yearly; the year begins in September. Space is limited.

FEARRINGTON FOR LIFE

Fearrington for Life is a group open to all Village residents who are interested in remaining in their homes forever. The mission of the group is to identify and make available everything you need to remain in your home forever. 

Areas of interest include transportation, food, home health and geriatric care services, and adaptive and home maintenance services.

FEARRINGTON GARDEN CLUB

The Garden Club welcomes all residents with an interest in the local landscape. We learn not only about effective ways to garden in our North Carolina 7b zone, but also about the ecology of the natural world around us. Our activities include talks with experts, tours to area gardens, and service projects in the Village and community. A key aspect of our mission is nurturing future horticulturalists at Chatham Central High School in Bear Creek by hosting their student fundraising efforts. Please click here for more information.

FEARRINGTON GENEALOGY GROUP

The Fearrington Genealogy Group provides its members with a chance to share their family history stories, learn about a wide variety of genealogy topics, and give each other help to overcome the inevitable “brick walls” we all face in researching our family trees. We cordially invite newcomers to join us at our monthly meetings, 3-5 p.m., on the second Tuesday in September-May in the Gathering Place and on occasional research trips. Dues are $15 per person.

FEARRINGTON GOLF CLUB

Play is scheduled for Tuesday and Thursday. Coed leagues are grouped according to handicap. A number of tournaments are held during the year. Initiation fee: $20. Annual dues: $36.

FEARRINGTON HAVURAH

A Jewish-sponsored cultural and educational group that is open to everyone. Meets: second Tuesday, September through June, 7:00PM social, 7:30 PM program.

FEARRINGTON MUSIC (FORMERLY MITA)

Fearrington Music is a club for music lovers to gather together in as many ways as we envision, including our long-standing tradition of Sunday afternoon concerts and also various opportunities for our resident musicians to play (“jam”) with one another in an informal setting (locations to be announced throughout the year). 

FRIENDS OF SCANDINAVIA

We are a group of folks who love Scandinavia. Many of our group can trace relatives from this wonderful part of the world while others have traveled to one of these countries. Many of our attendees just enjoy hearing about food, customs and the people of Scandinavia. We hold two meetings a year, one in the spring, one in the fall (dates are announced well in advance).

FEARRINGTON REPUBLICAN CLUB

Share your concerns on national, state, and local issues. The Fearrington Republican Club invites you to hear insightful speakers and participate in open discussions. All are welcome. No club dues, but donations welcomed. Meets 4th Wednesday at 7 PM in the Gathering Place.

FEARRINGTON VILLAGE CAROLINA CLUB

Our membership is open to Fearrington Village and Galloway Ridge residents seeking closer ties to UNC. Our mission parallels that of the General Alumni Association (GAA) which is to inform and involve alumni and friends in the life of the University regardless of location. We are a GAA-sanctioned club, and while GAA membership is not required of our members, it is encouraged. Our club has no dues requirement. Our club consistently earns Outstanding Club honors each year based on service projects and membership growth. Our club is tops in per capita giving for scholarships among all Carolina Clubs and annually raises scholarship funds by direct appeal for Chatham County students attending UNC. Numerous social events are held throughout the year to keep club members connected. Plan now to join your fellow Tar Heels in service and in fellowship. Hark the Sound! Fearrington Village Carolina Club.

FEARRINGTON VILLAGE SINGERS

We welcome all singers from Fearrington Village, Galloway Ridge, and the surrounding areas. No audition required – just a love of music, a joy of singing, and a willingness to attend weekly rehearsals in the Gathering Place. Some musical background is helpful but not necessary. Our 50-60 voices combine under the baton of our Director of Music, Matt Fry. We present matinee and evening performances each May and December. Our Donor and Patron program provides summer music scholarships to area students. Join us!

FEARRINGTON YACHT CLUB

Ahoy Mates! Welcome aboard Fearrington’s fun-loving social and travel group. Members plan two parties in Fearrington and two 2-3 day regional trips annually. Trips usually include a boat excursion and/or other interesting activities each day and a pre-dinner social hour each evening. Dues: $15 per person. NO YACHT REQUIRED.

MENS CLUB

Small discussion group. Meets Thursdays 2 p.m., in members’ homes.

PORCH FEARRINGTON

PORCH Fearrington collects food monthly for CORA, our local food pantry. Neighborhood coordinators collect donations throughout the village, and volunteer drivers deliver it to CORA.

SOCIAL BRIDGE CLUB

Starting on September 6, the Fearrington Social Bridge Club will meet the first Thursday of each month from 1pm to 3:30 at The Gathering Place. “Teaching Moments” are from 12:30 to 12:50 in the conference room the same day. Cost is $25 for 12 meetings. No drop-ins. Membership and basic bridge skills required. In October and November 2018, we will offer beginning bridge lessons for those wanting to learn to play, as well as intermediate lessons.

SWIM AND CROQUET CLUB

All Fearrington Village and Galloway Ridge residents, including renters, are eligible to join the club for a fee. Click the link above to access the club’s website to join or renew.

TENNIS AND PICKLEBALL

The Fearrington Tennis and Pickleball Association organizes and schedules tennis and pickleball play at the community courts at the Benchmark recreation area in the Historic District. Initiation: $75, annual dues: $75. For more information, check the Association’s page in the Clubs section of the Fearrington Homeowners website.

VILLAGE QUILTERS

Informal gatherings of women whose main focus is quilting and friendship. Meets: first and third Mondays, 10:30 a.m., members’ homes.

WOMEN OF FEARRINGTON

Women of Fearrington works to serve the needs of women and children in Chatham County via our grant giving program and is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Membership is open to all women who live in Fearrington Village and Galloway Ridge. We are committed to enriching our members lives socially, culturally, and intellectually and to fostering friendships. See womenoffearrington.org to learn more.

OUTSIDE COMMUNITY GROUPS

AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF UNIVERSITY WOMEN

AAUW is a national organization of college graduates committed to making a significant impact on education and equity for women and girls. Awards educational fellowships and grants and provides funding for women seeking judicial redress for sex discrimination. AAUW meets on the third Saturday 10:00 AM in Chapel Hill. Call Kay White (919-542-1138) for information.

CHATHAM CONNECTING

Wondering how to put your skills to good use in service to others or where to donate money or goods? There’s a searchable database of more than 100 non-profit organizations and county programs that helps Chatham County residents find a match with local helping agencies. It’s on the web and it’s free and easy to use. Begun by a group of volunteers who saw the need, this web site is the place to see what programs Chatham county agencies offer and what they need from volunteers or donors. “Connecting those who need help with those who can help” is our mission. Resolve to get involved. For more information, contact info@chathamconnecting.org.

CHATHAM COUNTY COUNCIL ON AGING

365 Highway 87N, Pittsboro. Services include in-home aide personal care, Meals on Wheels, congregate nutrition, transportation, fitness rooms, Medicare and tax assistance, exercise programs and senior centers. (919-542-4512)

CHATHAM COUNTY HABITAT FOR HUMANITY

Fearringtonians have been vital to the founding and continuing success of Habitat for Humanity, serving on the board of directors and operating committees, staffing the resale store and helping in the construction of houses. Phone Anna Tuell (919-542-0794 x 222), or email annaspears@chathamhabitat.org store: 467 West St, Pittsboro (919-542-0788)

FRIENDS OF THE CHATHAM COMMUNITY LIBRARY

Promotes the full use of the library as a valuable and vital community resource. Membership dues support special projects, library events, purchase of equipment and reading programs for children. Rhoda Berkowitz (919-545-2870 or email rberkowitz@aya.yale.edu.

LEAGUE OF WOMEN VOTERS

Encourages informed and active participation of citizens in governmental affairs at the local, state and national levels and provides voter services to citizens.

NEWCOMERS CLUB OF GREATER CHAPEL HILL

Are you new in town, have unpacked and are eager to meet new people, make new friends, and find out why so many of us love our new life here? The Newcomers Club of Greater Chapel Hill is here to help new members of the community find new friends and learn more about the area. We facilitate a variety of social activities and interest groups that will allow you to find people who share your enthusiasms, whether hiking or wine tasting, dinner groups or book clubs. There is something for everyone. Learn more about our club and its activities by visiting our website or drop in at one of our monthly evening Meet and Greets for newcomers to meet members and other newcomers and prospective members. Visit our website to learn the time and place of the next Meet and Greet or for more information email: membership@newcomersofchapelhill.com

OLLI – OSHER LIFELONG LEARNING INSTITUTE AT DUKE UNIVERSITY

A year-round educational community for retired folks on the Duke campus, as well as online and at other venues, including Galloway Ridge. Courses cover history, literature, natural or social sciences, art, music, drama and current events. See their website, learnmore.duke.edu/olli, or contact Village representative Warren Ort (919-533-6597).

PEER LEARNING

Meets weekdays at Binkley Memorial Baptist Church in Chapel Hill. Study groups are offered in a variety of fields, including literature, language, government, art and womens issues.

SHARED LEARNING ASSOCIATION

For the past 43 years, Shared Learning Association of Chapel Hill has been offering classes to the adult and senior community. The winter, spring and fall 2022 classes encompass areas of literature and writing, science, history, philosophy, music and art, and current events. For descriptions and a registration form, go to our website, sharedlearning.us. Winter classes begin January 11 and meet on weekday mornings.  Some classes will be in-person and others will be on-line using Zoom. For more information please call Alice Parsons 919-642-0606 or email amparson@uci.edu.

UNC CAROLINA PUBLIC HUMANITIES PROGRAM

UNC Carolina Public Humanities is the public face of the UNC College of Arts and Sciences. They offer a variety of educational programming that feature cutting-edge scholarship from some of UNC’s brightest faculty. These programs include weekend seminars, afternoon lectures series, book reading groups at Flyleaf Books in Chapel Hill, special events at various locations around the Triangle, and more. More information is available at humanities.unc.edu, by telephone at (919) 962-1544, or by emailing human@unc.edu.

UNITED WAY OF CHATHAM COUNTY

If you want to help create a Chatham where everyone has access to basic needs and is given equitable opportunities to lift themselves out of poverty, please consider joining the Fearrington Champions for United Way team. United Way of Chatham County was formed by Fearrington residents in 1985 – residents who were passionate about the health of Chatham and wanted to make a real and positive impact on the lives of those in need. If you’d like to join our growing Fearrington team, please contact Katie Childs, United Way Executive Director, at katie@UnitedWayOfChathamCounty.org or 919-542-1110.

VOICES – THE CHAPEL HILL CHORUS

Voices is a symphonic community chorus that rehearses and performs in Chapel Hill and offers fun as well as beautiful music to both our singers and our audiences.  Voices has about 100 singers, about 25 of whom also belong to Cantari, our elite chamber chorus.  Our Artistic Director is Dr. Stephen Futrell who also teaches and conducts musical groups at Elon University where he is on faculty. We rehearse on Tuesday evenings at 7 pm at St. Thomas More church with Cantari members staying later for their own rehearsal.  Joint concerts featuring both Voices and Cantari are in Chapel Hill and frequently on the UNC campus.  Rehearsals begin in September for our May concert, and January for our December concert.  Auditions take place in August and early January and are low stress events – we just want to know you have basic music skills.  A successful audition for Cantari requires a higher skill level. 

Most summers Voices also offers Summer Voices which is open to anybody who wants to sing and is informal with easier music.  Rehearsals begin in late May or June with a concert in July.  If we aren’t offering Summer Voices the larger choir has usually embarked someplace interesting on a trip that combines giving concerts with sightseeing.  Our most recent trip was to Scotland.

Please come sing with us or enjoy our concerts!  More information can be found at VoicesChapelHill.org, or email us at info@VoicesChapelHill.org.