The Establishment of a Community
FEBRUARY 9TH, 2021
Northeast Z32 began with a simple need: to create a connection between New England Z32 owners. Before March 15, 2020, there wasn’t a Z32 club in the northeast region of the United States.
Our group started off small at first. Most members were probably thinking, “Great, here’s another Z32 page on Facebook.” But this group was different. What started as a Facebook group of people of similar interests, evolved into something more. Even with COVID-19 putting a restriction on car events for the 2020 season, Northeast Z32 managed to gain members and host several events. As our numbers grew, so did the ideas.
We quickly realized this wasn’t going to be like any other Z32 page. No, it was going to be a club. A club where we can come together as a community to help one another, share photos and stories, and get together for events.
In September, we hosted our first annual Northeast Z32 meet at Chuck’s house. We had a fantastic turn out of members and Z’s! Richard found out just how much party supplies could be stuffed into the trunk of his 2+2, while Spencer mastered the daunting task of cooking 37 burgers and 24 hot dogs. Our members enjoyed each other’s company, where they finally had others to talk about the Z platform.
The season came to an end, as the cold weather crept in. Inspired by our success at our first annual meet, we needed something to do for the off season. Pretty soon ideas were pouring in on ways to fund events for next season.
We started hosting raffles to allow members the opportunity to obtain new parts for their car at a fraction of the cost. Not only did this help raise money for the group, but it built camaraderie among us, making members realize this group was destined to be something truly special.
There was something missing; something a car club needs… Apparel! We quickly set out to create a design for our very own apparel, sporting our amazing logo and our personal design. Couple these with the Northeast Z32 quarter glass decals, and you have yourself some awesome merchandise to sport your club.
However, 2020 wasn’t all great. On November 15, 2020, our group lost one of its members, Julian, in a fatal car accident. The club got together at the scene of the crash to pay our respects to our lost brother.
With the closing of the 2020 season, we look back on what we did, and what we could have done better. Our club plans to have an amazing 2021 season with hopes for public car events to open back up. Either way, we will be hosting our own events for our members with safety in mind. We have high hopes for this 2021 season, and we can’t wait to see you then. Stay safe.
Written by: Spencer King