LAKEWOOD RANCH -- For the third consecutive year, residents in Lakewood Ranch will have the opportunity to meet representatives and join several clubs and organizations.

Club Day is scheduled for 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday at Lakewood Ranch Town Hall, 8175 Lakewood Ranch Blvd.

Some of the clubs participating will include theLakewood Ranch Community Emergency ResponseTeam, Republican and Democratic clubs, Mom's Club, digital photography, ballroom dancing and runners' club.

As Lakewood Ranch continues to grow, so do the groups and organizations serving and participating in the community.

"It's a good opportunity for new residents since we've sold so many homes," said Lori Basilone, Lakewood Ranch Community Activities director.

Over the last two years, 10 new clubs and organizations have formed in Lakewood Ranch, coinciding with population increase in the development community. There were roughly 400 new homes sales in Lakewood Ranch through Aug. 31, a 48 percent surge over last year's pace. Through the end of September, buyers have closed on 251 resales in the massive master planned community.

Some of the newer clubs include an aviation enthusiasts club and an evening mah-jongg club.

"It's a great opportunity for clubs to congregate in one room and have residents meet the club's representatives," Basilone said.

One of the clubs present will be the Italian American Club, which recently held its inaugural Italian Festival. The club meets monthly for an Italian dinner, bocce ball and to compare Italian family traditions. The club sold prize-drawing tickets at the festival to raise money to build bocce courts in Lakewood Ranch.

"There's so many new people coming into area and this gives them a chance to see what activities are out there," said Stella Olinger, founder of the Italian American Club.

" People need to come out to meet people that are doing things here. It's a great way to get involved."

Nick Williams, East Manatee reporter, can be reached at 941-748-0411 ext. 7049. Twitter:@_1NickWilliams.