About us
Higher Grounds began as a simple idea: bring people together for thoughtful conversations about life beyond small talk. We're a collective, not a top-down group, with multiple facilitators who share the spirit of curiosity and openness.
About Our Conversations:
Most gatherings happen in cozy coffee shops, with the occasional walk or hike when the weather is nice. Our conversations range from happiness, relationships, loneliness, spirituality, personal philosophy, art, travel, and the search for meaning. These gatherings dive deeper than casual chats and attract people reflecting on what comes next.
People sit at tables from two to six. We start with introductions where everyone answers: "What makes you you?" We ask that people leave job descriptions to the very last, and instead share why they want to join a group like this. It makes conversations richer.
After introductions, we dive into what's on people's minds rather than any set question. Conversations are popcorn-style and we make an effort to listen as much as we speak.
Our Growing Network:
We currently meet in three locations: Falls Church, Vienna, and Del Ray/Alexandria. People are coming from as far as Baltimore and Frederick, Maryland, so we want to find out if there's interest in creating a fourth or fifth location such as DC or Montgomery County. Propose a new location here: https://forms.gle/Hv7iEQfbJJ4Bsg64A
From November 1st through April 1st, we're capping each meeting at 16 people. This is simply practical—our coffee shop venues have limited indoor space during winter, and we're struggling to find tables that fit everyone. Please only RSVP if you plan on coming, and release your spot if you can't make it. In warmer months, venues expand outdoor seating and capacity hasn't been an issue.
We're looking for co-facilitators who can lead groups and be part of a social committee to help manage current activities, develop new ideas, and explore expansion. Reach out to AJ directly on Meetup if interested.
If you'd like to start a chapter, attend at least three sessions first to get a feel for how we do things, then have a conversation with AJ about your location and ideas.
Higher Grounds Community Guidelines
Behaviors That Are Out of Bounds:
- Sexual Harassment - Unwanted sexual advances, inappropriate comments, unwanted physical contact, or persistent romantic pursuit after being declined.
- Disruptive Behavior - Dominating conversations and refusing to let others speak, belittling or dismissing others' perspectives, consistently interrupting or talking over people, creating a hostile atmosphere through rudeness or aggression.
- Hate Speech - Discriminatory language or targeted harassment based on identity (race, gender, sexuality, religion, etc.).
- Breach of Confidentiality - Sharing what others have disclosed in the group without their explicit permission.
- Solicitation - Using the group for networking, recruiting, sales, or promotional purposes.
Repercussions:
- Sexual harassment: Immediate and permanent removal from Higher Grounds.
- Hate speech: Immediate and permanent removal from Higher Grounds.
- Disruptive behavior: A group leader will contact you privately to discuss and course correct. If the behavior persists, you may face expulsion from the group.
- Breach of confidentiality: Depending on severity, either a warning or removal from the group.
- Solicitation: A warning first, then removal if it continues.
Reporting: Contact an organizer or facilitator privately with concerns. All reports are handled with discretion.
Upcoming events
29
Past events
57
Group links
Organizers
Members
389
