Scene 1: A community center open house. People are looking at a bulletin board with flyers for classes and events.
BEN: Hi! Welcome. First time here?
SAM: Yeah, it’s my first time. I just moved to this area last month.
BEN: Nice! I’m Ben. If you’re looking for something to do, we have English conversation groups, cooking classes, and a weekend hiking club.
SAM: Oh, a hiking club sounds interesting. I like being outdoors.
BEN: Perfect. You should meet Priya—she leads the hiking group. Priya!
Priya walks over with a clipboard and smiles.
PRIYA: Hi! I’m Priya. Ben says you’re interested in hiking.
SAM: Hi, Priya. I’m Sam. Yeah, I’m interested, but I’m still learning the trails around here.
PRIYA: No problem. Our hikes are beginner-friendly. We usually go Saturday mornings. Where did you move from?
SAM: I moved from Chicago. The weather is very different here.
PRIYA: (laughs) Yes, it’s a big change. What do you like about the area so far?
SAM: I like that it’s quieter and there are lots of parks. I’m trying to explore more.
PRIYA: That’s great. Do you work nearby, or are you working from home?
SAM: I work from home most days. That’s why I want to meet people—otherwise I’m always inside.
PRIYA: I understand. It can feel lonely at first. If you want, you can join us this Saturday. We’re doing an easy trail with a coffee stop after.
SAM: That sounds perfect. What time do you meet?
PRIYA: We meet at 9 a.m. in the parking lot by the main entrance. I can text you the details.
SAM: Sure. Can I give you my number?
PRIYA: Yes, of course.
They exchange phone numbers.
Scene 2: A few minutes later. Sam and Priya are looking at the bulletin board together.
SAM: By the way, do you have any recommendations for good restaurants nearby?
PRIYA: Yes! There’s a small Thai place on Oak Street that’s really good. Also, there’s a new bakery that just opened—great coffee.
SAM: Nice. I’ll check them out. What do you usually do for fun besides hiking?
PRIYA: I like cooking, trying new cafés, and watching movies. Sometimes I go to trivia night with friends.
SAM: Trivia night sounds fun. I’ve never done that before.
PRIYA: You should come sometime. It’s a good way to meet people, and nobody cares if you don’t know every answer.
SAM: (smiles) That makes it less stressful.
PRIYA: Exactly. Also, are you interested in volunteering? The community center has events where people help set up and meet other neighbors.
SAM: Actually, yes. That could be a good way to get involved.
BEN: (walking back) I heard “volunteering”! We have a sign-up sheet for next week’s food drive.
SAM: Perfect. I’ll sign up.
PRIYA: Nice! Welcome to the neighborhood, Sam.
SAM: Thanks, Priya. I’m glad I came today.
— THE END —