American in Paris: Getting Involved in Paris

Having left the United States to be with my French husband in Paris, I certainly know what it feels like to leave a good job, my family, and friends to become "the trailing spouse". But I was determined to make a place for myself here. Fortunately, as an American, it was easy to meet others who spoke my language, and though I do speak French, I found there was plenty to do if you do not.

The American community in the Paris region has a great history. Groups such as the Association of American Wives of Europeans (AAWE) fought long and hard to protect our rights as American citizens, and the rights of our children. Today, with most of their original goals obtained, AAWE, while still concerned with citizenship issues, focuses on raising bilingual and bicultural families. I often refer English speaking parents to them when they are searching for a school in France. AAWE's "Guide to Education" is often thought of as the "schooling bible" by many foreign mothers here and it is just one of the many brilliant publications created by hundreds of hard working volunteers in the area. You do not have to be a member to obtain a copy. Simply contact them at 33 (0) 1 47 28 46 39 or write to them at BP 127, 92154 Suresnes Cedex, France.

For mother's wishing for more information on giving birth to and raising children, a great place to start is Message Mother's Support Group. This organization, for mother's of any nationality, organizes play groups, working mother support groups and offers information on childbirth and breast feeding. There is even a help line for questions. Message also publishes a book called "The ABC's of Motherhood in Paris", offering information on the above, as well as where to shop and play with your children. You can find them at www.messagparis.org or by calling 33 (0) 1 48 04 74 61 or 33 (0) 1 39 65 79 29.

Another organization I highly recommend to any English speakers is WICE. When I first arrived here without a job, my first stop was at WICE to sign up as a volunteer. They are always happy to receive as much or as little help as you can give. It is a great way to meet people as well. WICE is an educational organization, offering courses in various subjects such as Art History, Creative Writing, Studio Arts, History, and Living in France. All courses are taught in English. As a member, you can sign up for any courses you like and even participate in the French/English conversation exchanges. WICE also publishes, in conjunction with another group called Health Network International, "Health Care in Paris". This book will explain the ins and outs of the French medical system, list English speaking doctors of various specialties and offers information on everything from visiting the pharmacy to having a baby in France. For information on this publication, or for more information about WICE classes and volunteer opportunities, try their web site at www.wice-paris.org or call them directly at 33 (0) 1 45 66 75 50.

An event no newcomer to Paris should miss is the "Bloom Where You are Planted" program organized by the Women of the American Church. This program takes place on three Tuesdays in October. It is definitely worth visiting at least one day, though the cost of entry allows you to enter all three days. There you will be able to meet representatives from the various organizations, including the ones mentioned above. There will also be speakers discussing various topics from the French school system to dressing - la Francaise. Entry also gets you a free copy of the "Bloom Where You are Planted" booklet, explaining all the basics of living in France, including cooking and ingredients exchanges for cooking, where to practice different sports, and how to use a public telephone. At the end of the program, participants will divide up according to neighborhoods and you can meet the people involved in the local monthly coffee groups. Don't feel as if you need to be highly religious to join the Women of the American Church. Though the church offers Sunday services and bible study, the social programs through WOAC are open to everyone interested in joining.

Voila! You're off to a good start. If, however, you arrive in Paris and none of these groups sound right for you, try contacting the U.S. Consulate at 01 43 12 22 22 or by stopping in at 2, rue St. Florentin in the 8th arrondissement. There you can get a free copy of "The Guide for U.S. Citizens Residing in France". In addition to important information you might want such as registering to vote, it also lists all American and other English speaking organizations in the Paris Region. This list includes everything from church groups to alumni clubs. Something is right for you. So whatever you do, don"t stay at home! Get out there and meet people!

Diana Morales is a Relocation Professional at Cocitra Mobilite in Paris.