Community Organizations

The idea of achieving “World Peace” is thought by some to be a utopian fantasy – a dream – something that sounds nice but is too far out of reach. But is it really? What if peace is not just possible but actually inevitable? Humanity’s history is riddled with war and conflict. There isn’t a community in this world that hasn’t in some way been touched by war and their effects, with so many still suffering today. Though we have made great strides as a global society, we still seem to be surrounded by aggression and hate, by injustice and inequity. Conflict seems to rule society in our media, economic, political, and religious systems. Many even believe that conflict is intrinsic to human nature. But is it actually? Or do we have a higher calling as our true, spiritual nature? Might recognizing and nurturing this nature help us move beyond this cycle of destruction? Destruction is easy, but peace is difficult. It must be built and it must be maintained. At times this task can seem daunting to say the least. But it’s not out of reach. All around us we can find glimmers of hope and the promise of a better world. But how can we actually achieve it? Is it a process out of our hands? Or do we have agency in bringing it about – and in determining how quickly? Is there a role that each of us can play in achieving the promise of world peace? Are there spiritual qualities and virtues we can develop to bring about the changes necessary to achieve this? How might we support one another as we work together to build a more secure, more peaceful world? Come join a different kind of conversation – one that welcomes every perspective in a search for the underlying truths that unite us all – on what will be required to achieve true and lasting peace. Join us for an open and respectful conversation where participants can share perspectives, experiences, and insights. Whether you come to speak or simply to listen, all thoughtful voices are welcome.

Volunteers are needed at the Community Garage Sale, organized by the Arlington Civitans! **This event is both a volunteer opportunity and an important fundraiser for the Jaycees** \- the Civitans pay our organization for every volunteer hour\! On Friday night\, volunteers help with setup of the snack bar\, posting signage\, and other duties as needed\. This event is held on the **first weekend of each month** between April and November. (volunteers are also needed for cleanup on Saturday afternoon - see separate Meetup event) As a bonus, if you volunteer for at least 5 hours at the Civitans garage sales, you are eligible for a **FREE Arlington Jaycees Annual Membership**! The Garage Sale is held in the Parking Garage located behind Washington & Liberty High School. It is a **10 minute walk from the Ballston-MU metro station**. **Parking** is available on level A of the garage or on North 15th Street, between Quincy and Stafford Streets, and along Quincy Street. **Walk into the parking garage and proceed to the Level B** **concession stand** \-\- ask for Cathy or Paul\. Make sure to sign in\. Please wear sturdy \(closed toe\) shoes\, and bring work gloves if you have them\. Also dress for the weather as this event takes place rain or shine\. Proceeds from the monthly garage sale (from sales at the concession stand and vendor fees) benefit the Arlington Civitans, a non-profit organization committed to helping people with developmental disabilities. For more information, visit the [Arlington Civitans](http://civitan.org/) website. After volunteering at the garage sale, we'll go out for some food and drinks in Ballston! \*\*You must be between 21 and 40 years old to qualify for membership in the Arlington Jaycees. ***The Arlington Jaycees*** *(part of Junior Chamber International) is the premier nonprofit in Arlington that provides young people (ages 21-40) with opportunities for personal & professional growth, business networking, community involvement and social engagement in the Arlington Community and worldwide. Our mission is **leadership development through community service**. Check out our website [www.arljaycees.org](https://arljaycees.org/) to learn more and to become a member of this amazing organization!*

**THE POWER OF THE SUBCONSCIOUS OVER YOU** You are welcome to arrive 15 minutes early for refreshments! At the lecture "The Power of the Subconscious", the speaker will clearly and understandably explain topics such as: What is the exact definition of the Subconscious Mind? How does it inflict unwanted feelings and anxiety in you? What determines how much pressure it exerts on a person? What exactly is the goal of the subconscious? This is not just a lecture where you sit quietly and listen. It's interactive and LIVE, so you can ask questions at any time. And the most important topic: **HOW DO YOU TAKE CONTROL OF YOUR SUBCOUNSCIOUS!** This group is sponsored by the Dianetics Life Improvement Center.

**☕ Welcome to the Kindness Cafe Crew! 🌟** Hey there, wonderful souls! We’re thrilled to announce the launch of our new meetup group: **Kindness Cafe Crew!** 🎉 Our mission? To gather amazing people like YOU to share life experiences, learn from one another, and sprinkle a little kindness into our lives! Join us at **Panera** for a cozy cup of coffee, delightful conversations, and a chance to connect with fellow kindness enthusiasts. Let’s create a warm space where we can get to know each other better while sharing stories and insights that help us grow. So, grab your favorite mug and come be part of our journey! We can’t wait to meet you and make some beautiful memories together! **See you at the cafe! ❤️**

**THE POWER OF THE SUBCONSCIOUS OVER YOU** You are welcome to arrive 15 minutes early for refreshments! At the lecture "The Power of the Subconscious", the speaker will clearly and understandably explain topics such as: * What is the exact definition of the Subconscious Mind? * How does it inflict unwanted feelings and anxiety in you? * What determines how much pressure it exerts on a person? * What exactly is the goal of the subconscious? This is not just a lecture where you sit quietly and listen. It's interactive and LIVE, so you can ask questions at any time. And the most important topic: **HOW DO YOU TAKE CONTROL OF YOUR SUBCOUNSCIOUS!** This group is sponsored by the Dianetics Life Improvement Center.

Are you looking to make new friends in the DC area? This is it! Reserve your spot for free on **[Eventbrite](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1985250121555?aff=oddtdtcreator)**. We will gather for an extended happy hour at the **[Silver Diner Ballston](https://www.silverdiner.com/ballston)** in Arlington, Virginia! This exciting venue offers a vibrant atmosphere and a [happy hour menu](https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5e9852ea88b473135ac2bbb7/t/6800f1c4fb26281900437105/1744892356612/CSD.MV.HH_Menu_03_2025.pdf). There's something for everyone to enjoy. Be the life of the party! We will gather inside by the bar. Name tags will be available. Enjoy the great food. See the dining [menu](https://www.silverdiner.com/menus). This LGBTQ+ community-wide social provides everyone a chance to mingle, socialize and share community spirit in a fun setting. All your friends are welcome. Fabulous people from all over the world are expected. It's FREE to attend. Casual attire is fine; this will be a relaxing and fun time. Simply pay for drinks using your own credit card or cash; there is no group tab. This is a 21+ establishment, so bring your ID with you. You are welcome regardless of where you live. This is **the place** to be. This event is hosted by **[Go Gay DC](https://www.gogaydc.com/)**[,](https://www.gogaydc.com/) Metro Washington DC's inclusive LGBTQ+ community focused on friendship, leadership, and service. It reaches over 10K fabulous people and is growing fast. Visit [https://www.gogaydc.com](https://www.gogaydc.com/) You are welcome regardless of where you live. Guests from DC, Maryland, and Virginia often attend. This event is ideal for meeting new folks, making new friends, community-building, or just to unwind & enjoy the atmosphere. Casual attire is fine. You may arrive at any time during the event. This event is for ages 21+ and will be a safe, inclusive space for everyone under the rainbow. **Be Eco-friendly:** You are encouraged to take Metro.The Ballston stop is within a 10-minute walking distance. Ballston is served by the Orange/Silver lines. Ballston is also a major bus hub. The Silver Diner Ballston is located across Glebe Road on the left. Go to Metro Trip Planner: [https://www.wmata.com/schedules/trip-planner/](https://www.wmata.com/schedules/trip-planner/) **Parking Garage:** Corner of Wilson Boulevard and N Glebe Road next to Target.**Complimentary 2-hour validated parking in the underground Target garage. Simply ask the Silver Diner host to validate.** Go Gay DC is on social media: Join the Facebook Group [https://www.facebook.com/groups/GoGayDC](https://www.facebook.com/groups/GoGayDC) Like the Facebook Page [https://www.facebook.com/GoGayDC](https://www.facebook.com/GoGayDC) Follow on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/GoGayDC](https://www.instagram.com/GoGayDC) Follow on Threads [https://www.threads.com/@GoGayDC](https://www.threads.com/@gogaydc) Follow on Bluesky [https://gogaydc.bsky.social/](https://gogaydc.bsky.social/) Follow on X [https://www.x.com/GoGayDC](https://www.x.com/GoGayDC) Watch on YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/GoGayDC](https://www.youtube.com/GoGayDC) Search keywords: LGBT LGBTQ LGBTQI LQBTQIA Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender Queer Intersex Straight Allies Non-binary

Are you looking to make new friends in the DC area? This is it! Reserve your spot for free on **[Eventbrite](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1985250121555?aff=oddtdtcreator)**. We will gather for an extended happy hour at the **[Silver Diner Ballston](https://www.silverdiner.com/ballston)** in Arlington, Virginia! This exciting venue offers a vibrant atmosphere and a [happy hour menu](https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5e9852ea88b473135ac2bbb7/t/6800f1c4fb26281900437105/1744892356612/CSD.MV.HH_Menu_03_2025.pdf). There's something for everyone to enjoy. Be the life of the party! We will gather inside by the bar. Name tags will be available. Enjoy the great food. See the dining [menu](https://www.silverdiner.com/menus). This LGBTQ+ community-wide social provides everyone a chance to mingle, socialize and share community spirit in a fun setting. All your friends are welcome. Fabulous people from all over the world are expected. It's FREE to attend. Casual attire is fine; this will be a relaxing and fun time. Simply pay for drinks using your own credit card or cash; there is no group tab. This is a 21+ establishment, so bring your ID with you. You are welcome regardless of where you live. This is **the place** to be. This event is hosted by **[Go Gay DC](https://www.gogaydc.com/)**[,](https://www.gogaydc.com/) Metro Washington DC's inclusive LGBTQ+ community focused on friendship, leadership, and service. It reaches over 10K fabulous people and is growing fast. Visit [https://www.gogaydc.com](https://www.gogaydc.com/) You are welcome regardless of where you live. Guests from DC, Maryland, and Virginia often attend. This event is ideal for meeting new folks, making new friends, community-building, or just to unwind & enjoy the atmosphere. Casual attire is fine. You may arrive at any time during the event. This event is for ages 21+ and will be a safe, inclusive space for everyone under the rainbow. **Be Eco-friendly:** You are encouraged to take Metro.The Ballston stop is within a 10-minute walking distance. Ballston is served by the Orange/Silver lines. Ballston is also a major bus hub. The Silver Diner Ballston is located across Glebe Road on the left. Go to Metro Trip Planner: [https://www.wmata.com/schedules/trip-planner/](https://www.wmata.com/schedules/trip-planner/) **Parking Garage:** Corner of Wilson Boulevard and N Glebe Road next to Target.**Complimentary 2-hour validated parking in the underground Target garage. Simply ask the Silver Diner host to validate.** Go Gay DC is on social media: Join the Facebook Group [https://www.facebook.com/groups/GoGayDC](https://www.facebook.com/groups/GoGayDC) Like the Facebook Page [https://www.facebook.com/GoGayDC](https://www.facebook.com/GoGayDC) Follow on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/GoGayDC](https://www.instagram.com/GoGayDC) Follow on Threads [https://www.threads.com/@GoGayDC](https://www.threads.com/@gogaydc) Follow on Bluesky [https://gogaydc.bsky.social/](https://gogaydc.bsky.social/) Follow on X [https://www.x.com/GoGayDC](https://www.x.com/GoGayDC) Watch on YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/GoGayDC](https://www.youtube.com/GoGayDC) Search keywords: LGBT LGBTQ LGBTQI LQBTQIA Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender Queer Intersex Straight Allies Non-binary

Come out, relax, and make some new friends! Bring whatever your preferred morning drink is (there’s 4 coffee shops within a 10min walk including BadAss Coffee right around the corner and Compass and Detour about 10min away) and join us in Quincy park for some laid back conversation. Well-behaved, leashed pups are welcome too! Come and go as you please within the event time - looking forward to meeting everyone!

Join us for an Easter brunch at Matchbox in Mclean followed by a springtime escape at the beautiful Meadowlark Botanical Gardens. ⭐️Brunch starts at 10AM. 📍Matchbox address: 1340 Chain Bridge Rd, McLean, VA 22101 💐Garden Tour will start after we finish the brunch, depending on when we finish brunch, but projecting a start time of 12:30pm. Will keep everyone posted here in the comments. 🐣Let’s celebrate Easter at Meadowlark Gardens surrounded by peaceful lakes, winding garden paths, and vibrant blooms — without the overwhelming crowds. We may also get a chance to see beautiful Cherry Blossoms throughout the garden. ✨ Open space to stroll and take photos ✨ Quiet corners for reflection and conversation ✨ Beautiful landscaped gardens and waterfront views ✨ A relaxed, unhurried atmosphere 💲entrance fee(pay at the visitor center upon arrival): Age 18 - 59 ----9.00 Age 60 and over ----5.00 This is your chance to truly experience spring. Soft petals drifting in the breeze, sunlight shimmering on the water, and room to pause and soak it all in. Let’s trade the hustle for harmony and experience the season that way its meant to be enjoyed. If you RSVP and your plans change you must remove your RSVP 48 hours before the event. No-shows are strongly discouraged and may be removed from the group based on the organizer's discretion.

\* PLEASE JOIN ONLY IF CONFIRMED \* Reservations have been made We will be dining at the ever so yummy Royal Tandoor. They have an amazing lunch buffet with many savory and sweet items. Meeting time 1130am.

**PLEASE do not RSVP on Meetup - only posting here so more people can learn about upcoming events** We are excited to host the next **pairs** speed puzzling competition on **Saturday, April 4th**! No experience is needed, and all ages are welcome. **Please note**: Registration is required, RSVPing on Meetup does not reserve your spot! Please sign up at: [https://forms.gle/peLLLJdaEbeTfhNf7](https://forms.gle/peLLLJdaEbeTfhNf7) **Date**: April 4th, 2026 **Time**: 11am (please try to arrive 5 minutes early!) **Address**: Westover Branch Library Longfellow Meeting Room (1644 McKinley Rd #3, Arlington, VA 22205) **Price**: $40 per pair **Notes**: * Teams will get to keep the competition puzzle, and prizes will be given for the winning team! * There is parking near the library, as well as a Metro stop very close * There is no time limit, but the event will end at 1:00pm

Let's take a breath this Easter, together. Resurrection is like the first breath of new life, the clearing of the fog, the fresh wind of God filling depleted places with hope and strength. Come as you are and take a breath of new life with us.

**Join a work party to organize the Velocity Bike Co-op warehouse on the first Saturday of each month from 9 a.m. to noon.** Mike Pattisall, Velocity's business manager, will guide volunteers in improving the space where we work. You don't need to be there the whole time. Just come when you can, and wear clothes you don't mind getting dirty with bicycle grease. **Help keep the warehouse organized so there's space to work on bikes on volunteer nights!** Please note that volunteers under 18 are required to have a parent or guardian attend the beginning of their first volunteering session in order to sign a waiver for them, and volunteers under 16 are required to have a parent or guardian present with them during all the time they spend volunteering at Velocity.

Volunteers are needed at the Community Garage Sale organized by the Arlington Civitans! **This event is both a volunteer opportunity and an important fundraiser for the Jaycees** \- the Civitans pay our organization for every volunteer hour\! Volunteers assist in tear\-down and clean\-up after the sale ends\, starting at 1pm \(volunteers are also needed for setup on Friday night \- see separate Meetup event\)\. This event is held on the first Saturday of each month between April and November\. As a bonus, if you volunteer for at least 5 hours at the Civitans garage sales, you are eligible for a **FREE Arlington Jaycees Annual Membership**! The Garage Sale is held in the Parking Garage located behind Washington & Liberty High School. It is a **10 minute walk from the Ballston-MU metro station**. **Parking** is available on level A of the garage or on North 15th Street, between Quincy and Stafford Streets, and along Quincy Street. **Walk into the parking garage and proceed to the Level B** **concession stand** \-\- ask for Cathy or Paul\. Make sure to sign in\. Please wear sturdy \(closed toe\) shoes\, and bring work gloves if you have them\. Also dress for the weather as this event takes place rain or shine\. Proceeds from the monthly garage sale (from sales at the concession stand and vendor fees) benefit the Arlington Civitans, a non-profit organization committed to helping people with developmental disabilities. For more information, visit the [Arlington Civitans](http://civitan.org/) website. \*\*You must be between 21 and 40 years old to qualify for membership in the Arlington Jaycees. ***The Arlington Jaycees*** *(part of Junior Chamber International) is the premier nonprofit in Arlington that provides young people (ages 21-40) with opportunities for personal & professional growth, business networking, community involvement and social engagement in the Arlington Community and worldwide. Our mission is **leadership development through community service**. Check out our website [www.arljaycees.org](https://arljaycees.org/) to learn more and to become a member of this amazing organization!*

. 🎬 Movie Night You, Me & Tuscany Join us for a cinematic escape to the sun-drenched vineyards and romantic landscapes of Italy as we gather to watch You, Me & Tuscany, the new feel-good romantic comedy starring Halle Bailey and Regé‑Jean Page. Set against the breathtaking beauty of Tuscany, the film follows a spirited young woman whose impulsive decision to stay in a Tuscan villa leads to unexpected adventure, heartfelt moments, and a romance she never saw coming. Expect an evening filled with: 🍿 A beautiful cinematic escape to Italy 🍷 Relaxed social vibes and great conversation ✨ A feel-good romantic story perfect for movie lovers Whether you’re a fan of romantic comedies, stunning travel settings, or simply enjoy experiencing great films with great people, this will be a perfect night to unwind and connect. Come ready to relax, laugh, and be transported to Tuscany for the evening. Follow Black Love & Friends on [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/share/17oXQtZz36/) and [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/blackloveandfriends?igsh=djVrYnhqeG5nMjBx) to stay connected and be the first to hear about upcoming dimnets, social gatherings, and other exciting member-only events.

**Confidence & Connection: Using Your Authentic Truth to Find Your People** Confidence isn’t just about believing in yourself, it’s about knowing where you belong and who you can grow alongside. In this April Confidence Lab Happy Hour, we’ll explore how living in your authentic truth helps you find your people, build meaningful collaborations, and create spaces where vulnerability is met with respect rather than risk. Together, we’ll reflect on what it looks like to advocate for yourself with clarity and care, and how confidence deepens when it’s rooted in connection rather than comparison. Featured speaker **Lachandra Baker**, founder of **[LBB Edutainment](https://www.lbbedutainment.com/)** and author of *Your Own Biggest Cheerleader*, will share reflections on authenticity, psychological safety, and the power of community over individual achievement. Drawing from personal stories—including the significance of turning 53—Lachandra will invite us into a conversation about showing up fully, being seen, and choosing relationships that support who you truly are. Expect a warm, welcoming atmosphere with space for reflection, shared insight, and intentional connection—plus drinks, light bites, and the kind of conversations that remind you you’re not meant to do this alone. Come as you are. Leave feeling clearer about your voice, your people, and the confidence that grows when both are aligned. **What is Confidence Lab?** Confidence Lab is a monthly community experience for bold, thoughtful leaders building confidence from the inside out. Whether you’re launching a business, leading a team, navigating change, or simply striving to show up more fully—you belong here. Our work demands clarity, courage, and conviction—but the pace of daily life can erode our sense of self. Confidence Lab creates space to reflect, reconnect, and grow with others doing purpose-driven work. It’s designed for entrepreneurs, nonprofit leaders, creatives, corporate professionals, activists, and anyone ready to lead with authenticity and impact. ***Please note:*** *All are welcome! If cost is a concern, please use promo code PUBLIC to access a free ticket—we want you to join us.*

You are warmly invited to a beautiful **Ladies' Tea Party**. Join us for an elegant afternoon of fellowship, laughter, and meaningful connection as we gather in a peaceful and welcoming space. This special event is an opportunity to relax, enjoy delightful tea and treats, and celebrate the joy of community with other women, your daughters, granddaughters, nieces, and friends. This tea party is a wonderful way to build friendships, share conversation, and enjoy a refreshing time together. - Formal Attire

Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens Free Communal Garden Class Series GROWING MUSHROOMS In this class, we will discuss how to raise mushrooms on logs outdoors as a way to raise food in parts of your yard that are usually too shady to grow vegetables or other crops. We will discuss what mushroom species can be cultivated, what tree species they can grow on, and demonstrate how to prepare and inoculate the logs. By following these steps, you can have your own bountiful mushroom harvest! APRIL 27 | 6:00-7:30 PM | WELLS BARN 1851 E BROAD ST, COLUMBUS, OH 43205 INSTRUCTOR: MARC AMANTE Mare Amante is an Agriculture and Natural Resources Extension Educator with Central State University who is also currently serving as CSU Extension's Agriculture and Natural Resources Interim Program Leader. He has worked on and managed diversified vegetable farms across the Midwest and currently owns and operates an urban farm here in Ohio where he raises microgreens, vegetables, raspberries, and log-grown mushrooms for sale to local markets and restaurants. Registerefor free here https://www.fpconservatory.org/events/cg-growing-mushrooms/

Community Seed and Plant Swap Do you love gardening? Want to expand your collection of plants and seeds without breaking the bank? Join MOFB for their free community-based event. Sunday, April 19th 4-6 pm at Mid-Ohio Farm on the Hilltop 116 N Wheatland Ave Columbus OH, 43223 To RSVP for free in-person attendance: https://forms.gle/t6Ppoc5WnRFPTJMZ

Open to public: Friday, 5/15/26: 12:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. Saturday 5/16/26: 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Hosted by OSU The 2026 Chadwick Arboretum Spring Plant Sale and Auction Fundraiser Location: Lawn area south of the Nationwide and Ohio Farm Bureau 4-H Center 2201 Fred Taylor Dr, Columbus, OH 43210 Spring Plant Sale Spring into greenery at Chadwick Arboretum & Learning Gardens! Join us for our annual Spring Plant Sale Fundraiser and dive into a lush world of botanical delights. With over 16,000 fresh, exotic, and time-tested edible and ornamental plants, there's something for every green thumb! Experience the thrill of our tree and shrub auctions, where you can bid on unique specimens to enhance your garden sanctuary. Step into our Learning Lab, where engaging educational demonstrations on various garden topics will unfold throughout the three-day sale, enriching your knowledge and inspiring your green endeavors. Take part in an exciting, live auction offered each day, as well as a silent auction on Thursday and Friday. Explore vendor booths brimming with gardening essentials and delightful treasures. And while you shop 'til you drop, indulge in delectable treats from a delicious, local food truck. Proceeds from this event go directly to The Ohio State Chadwick Arboretum, student organizations, and local businesses alike. Come one, come all! Let's cultivate a brighter, greener future together. Credit/debit cards only.

Wild Ones Columbus Annual Native Plant Sale Saturday, May 23th, 2026 9:00 am to 1:00 pm (Eastern Time) Overbrook Presbyterian Church Parking Lot, 4131 N High St, Columbus, OH, 43214 Public Welcome, Family-Friendly Free Event A wide variety of native flowering plants, grasses, shrubs, and trees will be available from Wild Ones Columbus and local vendors Natives in Harmony, Leaves for Wildlife, and Scioto Gardens. Wild Ones will publish a list of plants that will be available at this year's sale closer to the event date. Be sure to stop by! Show up anytime!