By Len Macht, TGIF Founder & Social Director

When I found myself single in 1987 and started organizing activities for groups of friends - who, like me, were also single - it was a somewhat small undertaking. Activities were primarily scheduled for Friday nights (and hence the name TGIF - "Thank God it's Friday"), but it didn't take long for things to change.

TGIF now offers over 500 varied and organized events each year and the membership extends all across the Lower Mainland - from White Rock to the North Shore, and from Bowen Island to Chilliwack.

And yes, TGIF is still headed by me - it's just too much fun to retire from a heaven-sent job - particularly when I also have the pleasure of working with many of our members who often pitch in to help make the events so successful and memorable.

Unlike other organizations that cater to singles, TGIF is not a dating service or match-making club, although over the years, many members have happily connected and changed their "singles" status. The objective remains simple - singles should never be shut out of things to do just because they are single, or miss out on events because they may not have someone available to go with. Their "social club" should provide a multitude of things to do with people of a similar status, bringing them together and helping them to develop lasting friendships and relationships. The longevity of the club can be attributed to many things, but providing a spontaneous environment where singles can share their enthusiasm with others is foremost on the list. As our members know, "The rest is up to you."

And for the approximately 6,500 people who have been members at one time or another over the years, the activities have been wide and varied.

We've sailed the Gulf Islands, gone horseback riding in Mexico, enjoyed Greek food and sunshine, and travelled by elephant in Thailand. Other destinations have included Russia, Panama, Cuba, Ireland, Bali, Hong Kong, Chile, Argentina (cruising around the Horn), Portugal, Spain, Morocco and China - to name a few.

Closer to home, we've attended dances, Arts events, festivals and sports competitions. We've had countless great dinners, and exchanged ideas during fireside chats, weekly walks and get-a-way weekends. We've played games and sports, improved our lives and expanded our boundaries with lessons - and kept fit in the process.

We've also been spontaneously entertained by the interactions and humorous happenings created by some of our more imaginative members, and I'm very proud to have known the many wonderful people who have chosen TGIF as their extended family over the last 20 years. They, and you, have enriched my life beyond my wildest expectations. I hope that TGIF may have done the same for you.