Community Organizations

Get ready for a fun night with amazing food, great energy, and even better company! 🥰✨ 🍽️ Portia’s Café — 6:30PM 🛼 Skate Zone 71 — 8:30PM Come join us for delicious vegan food and/or roller skating — it’s totally up to you! Whether you come for the food, the skating, or both… you’re in for a great time 💗 📍 Portia’s Café 4424 Indianola Ave Columbus, OH 43214 📍 Skate Zone 71 4900 Evanswood Dr Columbus, OH 43229

5th annual Earth Day Celebration! This year (2026) the Celebration is scheduled for April 25th with activities running from 10am-2pm. This is a non-ticketed event. Everyone is welcome! We will have food trucks, Birds of Prey, kids crafts, live music, raspberry plants, apple trees, and of course NATIVE PLANTS! Where: Lynd Fruit Farm, 9399 Morse Rd, Pataskala Ohio 43062 Time: Activities will be from 10am- 2pm. The Market will remain open until 5pm.

Join WQC on April 25th from 11am-1pm at Inniswood Metro Park for a Nature Photo Walk. All types of cameras welcome! Let's enjoy spring to the fullest... 🌻🌼🌷🐤

We’re still working to get more people into these Meetups, but our goal is to give PlayYourCourt members a few social tennis outings each week in addition to your practice sessions and Challenge League matches. These Meetups are co-ed, super laid back, and all skill levels are welcome. Post your skill level and a suggested court in the comments section so we can round up as many players as we can for some tennis fun! Also, if you’re looking to meet new practice partners or play some matches and you aren’t already in the PlayYourCourt Community, you can go here to see what we’re all about and sign up: https://www.playyourcourt.com/tennis-community/columbus-oh/meetup/ If you love tennis, we’d love to have you! Be sure and watch the quick video that explains how everything works. Happy hitting! - Scott

Let's grab some coffee/food and share a morning chat! The East Market has an ample parking lot and outdoor and indoor seating. Grab a cup of coffee from Winston's Coffee & Waffles or on your way to East Market and meet us on the second floor - table behind or east of the elevator. Per what this group is about: "Everyone is welcome! International transplants to Columbus who want to improve language skills, Columbus residents who want to discuss international travel and culture, and anyone who enjoys getting together for good conversations."

Hosted by Dawes Arboretum and Community Cultures Learn How to Ferment Soda at Arbor Day (Free admission for Arbor Day Celebration and free tree seedlings while supplies last) **To sign up for these workshops, please sign up when you visit The Arboretum during Arbor Day at the Zand Garden Classroom.** **There will be three sessions:** **10 to 11 a.m.** **11:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.** **1 to 2 p.m** Community Cultures is a Pittsburgh-based organization that has provided virtual and in-person fermentation workshops, private events, consulting and fermented products for over a decade. It began when Trevor Ring, its founder, was in college and tried kombucha for the first time. Ring was intrigued by the flavor and used a kombucha mother, which is necessary for kombucha brewing. Shortly after he tried it, batches of vinegary kombucha dotted the floor underneath his dorm bed. Since then, Ring has been creating fermented products and encouraging the community to learn about fermentation. “It became a passion where I was fascinated to see food evolve over time,” he said. “Whether it’s under your bed, or on your countertop, you can experience these wonderful flavor changes and then nutritional benefits.” The process of fermentation is a “metabolic process where microorganisms like yeast and bacteria convert sugars into alcohol, gases or acids.” Simply, fermentation is the breakdown of food through microbes, according to Ring. Fermentation is also considered food preservation. According to Ring, it’s likely one of the most ancient forms of food preservation aside from drying. Simply fermentation is engaging with the microscopic world so humans can preserve food, improve flavor and make it last longer. One of the most interesting things Ring has learned about fermentation is the exploration of people's origins and how they used fermentation as preservation historically. “There are so many ferments that exist all around the world,” he said. “A lot we don’t know about because they’re not shared in textbooks or aren’t studied. I encourage people when I’m teaching my workshops to reflect on their ancestry to explore what fermented products their ancestors were making.” Ring feels like, as a society, we generally have a fear of bacteria. Although there are bacteria to genuinely fear, he wants people to remember that, if done correctly, fermentation practices are very safe, and humans have been practicing them for thousands of years. Beginner fermentation activities include fermented vegetables or fermented sodas. On Arbor Day at The Dawes Arboretum, visitors will have the chance to meet Ring from Community Cultures and participate in his fermented soda workshop! The workshop will entail a brief overview of fermentation and a demonstration of how to make fermented soda at home using simple ingredients paired with a simple process. Participants will be able to taste various sodas and leave with knowledge and a recipe handout so they can practice fermentation on their own at home. Please email information@dawesarb.org if you have any questions.

Early-bird coffee and conversation at [Grandview Grind](https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063534163841)!

Join us for an afternoon of peace, relaxation, & healing. This FREE Spring Open House is a beautiful way to step into sacred community by enjoying nourishing food, heartfelt connection, and complimentary sessions. We will be offering FREE mini services: Wax Scryings, Intuitive Readings, Somatic Healing, Soul Embodiment Light Activations, Reiki & Multidimensional Energy Healing, Channeled Card Messages, Vibrational Sound Healing, Healing Infrared Dome Sauna, Chakra & Meridian Healing & Energy Body Clearing & Activation, Psychic Readings, Meditation, Wellness Coaching, & more! Time slots will be available first come, first serve. Optional RSVP to Caitlynn at: [kalik.wellnesswithin@gmail.com] We will also be offering ongoing group talks and activities in our group room. Dr. Ryan Brown, Metaphysician & Transformational Trainer will be speaking at 3pm! This is a perfect opportunity to meet each practitioner & receive an introduction to the many different healing modalities we offer. Spiritual & Wholistic gifts and Gift Certificates & Packages will be available to purchase. They make a great gift for yourself or as a holiday gift of self-care for your friends and family. Mini Service Offerings: Ammatara: Wax Scryings, Intuitive Readings, Somatic Healing, & Soul Embodiment Light Activations Caitlynn: Energy Healing & Channeled Card Messages Ellen: Vibrational Sound Healing Team Member: Healing Infrared Dome Sauna Group Room Talks/Demos: Session 1 \| Intro to Center & Practitioners with Ammatara Session 2 \| Soulbits Circle with Caitlynn Session 3 \| Alternative Medicine with Dr\. Carlos Session 3 \| Group Sound Healing with Ellen Session 4 \| Somatic Healing\, Releasing & Return to Love with Ammatara Session 5 \| Frequency Shifting with Dr\. Ryan Brown Hosted by The Center for New Life Practitioners 6797 N. High Street Suite 333 Worthington Ohio 43085 \*Entrance up the orange ramp to right of building and to 3rd floor\*

**✨ Speed Dating on Zoom – Personality Matched for Toledo Locals** For this online speed dating version, the host and the people in the room matter as much as the agenda. The experience is designed to feel guided, welcoming, and social. Ditch the apps. Meet Toledo singles face-to-face on Zoom tonight. Quick, hosted rounds on Zoom with Toledo singles paired to your age group and personality. No awkward pauses — just natural conversation. **Find your age group below:** - 🎉 **Ages 18-32** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=430.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Toledo&groupurlname=circle-of-singles-connecting-in-person&ar=18-32&face_v=1.0) - 🚀 **Ages 30-46** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=430.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Toledo&groupurlname=circle-of-singles-connecting-in-person&ar=30-46&face_v=1.0) - ⚡ **Ages 40-58** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=430.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Toledo&groupurlname=circle-of-singles-connecting-in-person&ar=40-58&face_v=1.0) **⚠️ Important: RSVP ≠ registration.** To join, pick your age group below, sign up, and finish the personality quiz. Spots are limited. --- ✅ **You will like this if:** - 🚀 Introverts who shine in one-on-one conversations - People fed up with swiping who want actual conversation - People re-entering the dating scene after a break ⭐ *"So much better than apps. Actual conversations with real people."* – Toledo attendee **How the event unfolds** 1. **Pick your age group** – Register through your link above. 2. **Fill in the matching quiz** – Helps us find your ideal matches for the evening. 3. **Log in** – Connect to the Zoom session from home. The host runs the show. 4. **Speed date** – One-on-one rounds with personality-matched Toledo locals. 📌 **What to know** - **Format:** Zoom video session – short timed rounds - 🎉 **Location:** Wherever you're comfortable – no venue, no travel - ✨ **Host:** Professional host keeping the evening smooth and relaxed 💡 **Tip:** Just be yourself. That's always the best approach. --- ✨ Your next match could be one Zoom call away. � ✨ Short-form version for faster scanning. Built for clarity over length. 🤝 **Community angle** - The host keeps the pace clear and the room welcoming - The atmosphere is guided, social, and easy to join - The structure is designed to help people settle in quickly It is meant to feel like the start of ongoing relationships, not just a single session on the calendar.

A movie this big deserves a big dinner! Join us after MICHAEL for fun and delicious dinner at another CMG-favorite restaurant, CAP CITY FINE DINER! RSVPs are limited for the dinner portion of this event! Here are complete details: CAP CITY FINE DINER: This upscale diner from Cameron Mitchell is known its “retro-cool” atmosphere, modern twists on classic comfort food and their “showstopper” desserts! The menu reimagines nostalgic dishes like meatloaf, beef stroganoff, and pot roast with gourmet twists. The menu also offers vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options with lots of apps, cocktails, salads, sandwiches, burgers (including a black bean veggie burger), the most welcome return of their Veggie Plate (with Hummus) and more. Desserts include their 24K Carrot Cake, Coconut Cake and Chocolate Covered Peanut Butter Pie. MENU: [https://capcityfinediner.com/locations-menus/gahanna/menus/dinner/](https://capcityfinediner.com/locations-menus/gahanna/menus/dinner/) RSVP: Dinner immediately following the movie at nearby CAP CITY FINE DINER! Please RSVP for here for the dinner portion of this event at Cap City Fine Diner. Since the dinner portion of this event is limited, please only RSVP if you plan to attend. If your plans change, please update your RSVP as early as possible. Please RSVP in both events, if you plan to attend the movie and dinner. Look forward to seeing you there, Dan

**✨ Virtual Speed Dating – Cincinnati Singles, Curated by Personality** The point of this online speed dating event is not just the content. It is the room, the host, and the feeling that people are joining something they can return to. We pair you by personality and age so every conversation feels natural. Each round is a brief one-on-one Zoom chat with a Cincinnati local paired by age and personality. A host keeps the pace comfortable. **Pick your age group and sign up:** - ⚡ **Ages 18-32** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=430.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Cincinnati&groupurlname=circle-of-singles-connecting-in-person&ar=18-32&face_v=1.0) - 💡 **Ages 30-46** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=430.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Cincinnati&groupurlname=circle-of-singles-connecting-in-person&ar=30-46&face_v=1.0) - ✨ **Ages 40-58** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=430.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Cincinnati&groupurlname=circle-of-singles-connecting-in-person&ar=40-58&face_v=1.0) **⚠️ Important: RSVP ≠ registration.** To join, pick your age group below, sign up, and finish the personality quiz. Spots are limited. --- 🎯 **Great fit for:** - People fed up with swiping who want actual conversation - Singles in Cincinnati who want to meet people from home - 🔥 Anyone curious about speed dating in a relaxed setting 🔄 **What to expect** 1. **Register** – Select your age group above and sign up. 2. **Take the personality quiz** – We use it to pair you with compatible Cincinnati singles. 3. **Log in** – Connect to the Zoom session from home. The host runs the show. 4. **Meet your matches** – Cycle through short chats with compatible Cincinnati singles. 📍 **Event snapshot** - **Format:** Zoom video session – short timed rounds - **Location:** Your space – couch, desk, wherever suits you - **Host:** Live host handling rounds and introductions 💡 **Tip:** Check your Zoom setup and pick a quiet, well-lit spot ahead of time. ⭐ *"I was nervous but the host made it effortless. Met someone wonderful first try."* – Cincinnati single --- ✨ Your next match could be one Zoom call away. ✨ ✨ Lean version: fewer words, same core offer. Everything important, without the extra padding. 🤝 **Community angle** - The structure is designed to help people settle in quickly - Repeat attendees help create familiarity and momentum - The community matters as much as the session itself The long-term goal is a room people want to come back to, not a one-off event people forget about.

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/

Get ready for an unforgettable night of inspiration, energy, and soul-stirring performance with international speakers and artists Armand and Angelina. This is more than an event—it’s a live concert-style experience of music, message, and mirth that will uplift your spirit and move your heart. From the moment the evening begins, you’ll be immersed in a powerful atmosphere of love, laughter, and transformational sound. Featuring the angelic, heart-opening voice of Angelina—singing across multiple languages—and the dynamic presence of Armand, whose inspiring talks, original compositions, and powerful vocals ignite a passion for life, this is a performance you don’t want to miss. Come out and feel the energy, connect with the message, and experience a night that celebrates love, transformation, and the power of music to move us all. $20 Suggested Love Offering (None shall be turned away) **Bonus Morning Experience** Native Flute Playshop with A & A Thursday, May 14 at 10:00 a.m. Come back in the morning for a deeper, hands-on musical experience.

Annual plant sale to support the Inniswood Volunteers Inc., giving back to the gardens. Offering mostly perennials, herbs and a few shrubs. Day 1: Saturday May 2, 2026 8am-4pm Day 2: Sunday May 3, 2026: 11a-3pm rain or shine. Bring a wagon if you have one!

Annual plant sale to support the Inniswood Volunteers Inc., giving back to the gardens. Offering mostly perennials, herbs and a few shrubs. Day 1: Saturday May 2, 2026 8am-4pm Day 2: Sunday May 3, 2026: 11a-3pm rain or shine. Bring a wagon if you have one!

Community Backyards Workshop Join us at the Ohio Herb Center in Gahanna to learn about sustainable home gardening. We can make small changes in our yards to make a BIG impact for a better environment and healthier waterways while saving money. This workshop is presented by Friends of Alum Creek and hosted by Ohio Herb Center. By attending, any participating community resident can receive a voucher for a rain barrel, compost bin, or native plants for attending. Vouchers are limited to one per household per year. Registration in advance is encouraged but NOT required. Click here: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/ev/reg/65f65aw (Free Workshop Registration: Registration is free. Registering in advance provides your information to Franklin Soil and Water ahead of time, so when you come to the workshop, we will have your voucher ready for you when you arrive) * Location: Ohio Herb Center, 110 Mill St, Gahanna, OH 43230 * Date and time: Sat, May 23, 2026 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM * Organizer: The Community Backyards Program, (614) 486-9613, communitybackyards@franklinswcd.org **FAQs** **Our Community Backyards workshops are FREE and a great way to participate in the rebate program. Our workshops are typically 1 to 1 and a half hours long and held in-person. Our workshops cover the same content as the online course, but they are more detailed and allow the chance to ask questions and have discussions with the presenters and other residents. We occassionally have "advanced topics" classes where you dive deeper into one topic of Community Backyards such as invasive vs. native plants or rain gardens.** **Registration is encouraged but not required.** You can register in advance to receive your voucher at the workshop. If you don't register in advance, that's okay - you can still show up (unless otherwise noted - which is very rare) and sign up for a voucher at the class, and we will send you one via email or mail within a few business days after the workshop. **"Do I have to be a resident of that community to attend that workshop?"** Nope! Our workshops are open to everyone (unless otherwise noted - which is extremely rare). You can attend a workshop that best suits your schedule even if it is in a different community than your own. **"Why is registration closed?** Can I just show up?" Yes, you can show up without registering! We close registration typically 1-2 days before the workshop to give the vouchers and materials to the presenters. However, you are always welcome to just show up and fill out a short form to request a voucher at the workshop. If eligible, we will send one to you within 1-2 business days after the workshop. **Voucher note**: Classes are free for everyone but vouchers are for residents of Franklin county or participating community (list here: https://www.communitybackyards.org/participate) 2026 Participating Vendors: City Folk's Farm Shop, Fisher's Gardens, Leaves for Wildlife, Scioto Gardens, Hoover Gardens & Gift Center, and the FSWCD/SWACO Compost Bin Sale. *when redeeming your voucher at a vendor, Please bring a physical copy of your voucher to receive an immediate discount on your purchase. Additionally, to keep up with number of vouchers that are given out, we have changed the expiration date on the vouchers to 30 days

[The Kind Exchange](https://www.facebook.com/events/3087825058070662/) A gathering to share, swap, and connect with like-minded people who care about plant-based living, sustainability, and mindful choices. This is more than a swap — it’s a space to circulate what we already have and meet others in the community. Bring any of the following to share: * **Vegan-related books** (cookbooks, sustainability, mindful living, etc.) * **Plants or cuttings** (optional) Swap for something new-to-you from others. *The more you bring, the more there is to exchange!* Please RSVP so we can plan accordingly- [https://form.jotform.com/260975490897073](https://form.jotform.com/260975490897073?utm_id=97758_v0_s00_e0_tv4&fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExVGxJeFRub0FQNmhUcmF3VnNydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR4u9YhVWcSkITKfEn_NajeEUIyxFrXbcaG0HjFHoQn-MCxKlhGlUpFAnsMIzw_aem_vo9QISntFpTtGskmWaVEkQ) Unclaimed books/plants at the end of the event will be donated.