What we’re about
BLACKOUT: EVENTS FOR BLACK SOCIAL PROFESSIONALS
We're now on Instagram: @blackoutbaltimore and Eventbrite: blackoutbaltimore
Blackout connects Black professionals through curated, fun experiences while supporting and promoting Black-owned businesses.
A social club for young black professionals (between the ages of 25 and older) with common interests or activities. If you are looking to have a good time, amongst delightful individuals, this is the group for you!
Events will include, dining, happy hours, dinner parties, game nights, holiday parties, festivals, movies, lectures, and community service. We're also talking hiking or walks in the park, frisbee golf, adult field days, rock climbing, bike rides, go kart racing, trampolines, adventure parks, axe throwing or even learning to fly a helicopter.
Suggestions? We're all ears!
MEMBERSHIP
In order to be considered for membership, you must be within the age range specified above, answer all of the questions provided, have at least a first name posted, and have a profile picture available. If you fail to do this, your request will be denied.
EVENT FEES
Beginning on June 1, 2023, we will be instituting event fees.
Those who have attended this meetup for a while can attest to the value it has provided. Thriving friendships and relationships have begun as a result of this group. New venues have been discovered. Fun times have been had.
In our continuing efforts to expand offerings, this is a necessary progression.
FAQs
Why charge an event fee?
People are more likely to participate and honor their RSVPs when they have skin in the game. This group is for those who are intentional about making connections with great people looking to meet like-minded people. 20 firm RSVPs are better than 50 "Maybes."
Furthermore, with more predictable attendance, we can start taking advantage of the economy of scale. A group this large should be availed discounts/specials but that can be challenging to demand when there isn't a track record of members honoring their RSVPs.
But I don't feel like paying. Can't I just show up?
No. In fairness to those who have paid the fee and those who are waitlisted, walk-ins are not accepted. Those who attempt to skirt the rules and attend without following the process will be removed from the group.
Are the event fees refundable?
Yes, up to a week before events.
Will there still be free events?
Yes! We will still host free events from time to time.
What do event fees cover?
The opportunity to meet like-minded dope Black people, the certainty that events won't be lightly attended, covering reservations, materials as applicable, and venue rentals. Event specific costs will be covered as well (eg. reserving lanes at a TopGolf). Fees also go towards nominal compensation for organizers' time and effort as well as covering the ongoing fees Meetup charges.
How can I pay?
We currently only accept CashApp: @BlackOutBaltimore
What about the no-show policy?
We will no longer be keeping track of no shows as we anticipate a marked decrease based on the event fees.
REMOVAL FROM THE GROUP
Our goal is to create a safe, inclusive, and fun environment for our members. To preserve that members may be removed for the following reasons:
Creepy behavior such as harassment or stalking
Abusive behavior
Attempting to circumvent event dues or not honoring the RSVP process which includes event capacity