TRIADELPHIA – Residents who have moved to Ohio County during the past two years are being invited to an event where they can share their experiences with local leaders.

A “Welcome Home” gathering will take place from 6-8 p.m. Monday at The Highlands Event Center.

“We just wanted to welcome people and have a community gathering of people who have moved to the area in the last two years,” explained Stephanie Hockenberry, growth and retention director for Ohio County.

Ohio County and city of Wheeling leaders also have been invited to attend.

“It will be a space for them to meet people they haven’t yet met in the community,” Hockenberry said.

Residents who wish to speak will have the opportunity to come to the podium and share their stories with those present.

About 50 people have been invited, and Hockenberry expects about 100 to attend. A similar event last year exceeded expectations when 200 people showed up for the program.

There will be resources and information available to newer residents, as well as gift bags.

“People can just show up, though they might not all get a gift bag if supplies run out,” she added. “We’re just happy people are moving here and finding it a special space.”

Hockenberry encourages anyone who knows someone looking to move to Ohio County to contact her at the Ohio County Development Authority office at 304-234-3893.

“I would love to talk to them and give them a tour if they are considering moving here,” she said.

Hockenberry noted she has been working with one family for more than a year that wanted to move to Ohio County from Oregon.

This weekend, they are traveling across the country to Ohio County to make their new home, and she hopes they will be able to attend the “Welcome Home” gathering on Monday.

“I’ve told her I can’t wait to meet you in person and give you a hug after all this time,” Hockenberry said. “Not knowing people when you move to a new place could cause anxiety. Hopefully, this makes them feel better when they get here.”