It came about just because so many people communicate on social media. ... My thought was if people actually met and knew other people, they might be kinder and also find their people," said Kathi Rendall when explaining how the Parkesburg Coffee Klatch Meetups began. "Through the process, I learned that people are very hungry for in-face meetings."

Coffee Klatch Meetups began in March and are held every other week at Parkesburg-area businesses. The most recent event took place at Poured Out Cafe on July 3. The next Coffee Klatch gathering will be held on Wednesday, July 17, at 11 a.m. at Gabe's Pizza Place, 428 W. First Ave., Parkesburg.

There are no fees to participate, and attendees may order food from the menu if they choose. Rendall noted that the group started with six or seven people in attendance, whom she invited to participate via Facebook. "I didn't even know if this would work or if anyone would come, but people seem to really like it," she said. "It's a different group of people every time. The most that we have had was 17 or 18, which is a lot."

Attendees are asked to introduce themselves, but there is no set program. People can discuss topics of their choice, but it is recommended that controversial issues or politics be avoided.

"Everyone introduces themselves and (about) halfway through, I asked certain people to move into another (seating) area to get to know other people and everyone seems fine with that," Rendall stated, noting that men and women of all ages are welcome. "It has tended, due to the time of day, to be an older group because other people are at work. We did have a couple of evening (meetups) at SpringHouse (Spirits) and at Rocco & Anna's (Ristorante)."

In addition to the Wednesday meetings, Rendall plans to host Saturday and weeknight gatherings. Events will be posted on the group's Facebook page. She also encourages other attendees to schedule meetups of their own.

"We have had people come from as far as Leola, Chester Springs and Oxford. I don't just target Parkesburg," she noted. "That was initially the idea, but (I thought), 'Why not make it bigger? Basically it's (for people in) Chester County and parts of Lancaster County."

She said that the meetings are very informal and designed as a way for people to make new friends. "I think that people are really hungry for connections. We also do not discuss politics, religion or business. It's not a business meeting," Rendall added. "The idea is to get to know people."

For more information and a schedule of upcoming events, join the Facebook group "Parkesburg Coffee Klatch Meetups!"