Creative Community

Looking to meet new people, reconnect with friends, or just do something more fun than another night of scrolling? Join us for a special **Friendship Edition of Trivia Tuesday** — a relaxed social night designed to help people connect naturally through team trivia, conversation, and a little friendly competition. 📅 **When:** Tuesday\, June 9\, 2026 \| 7:30 PM – 9:30 PM 📍 **Where:** Pizza Rustica (37 Blue Jays Way, Toronto, ON M5V 9G9) 👥 **Who:** Open to singles and couples, ages 19+ 🎟️ **Tickets:**[ \[Sign up Here\]](https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/toronto-event-hub-trivia-tuesday-soccer-edition-in-june-tickets-1990396111349?aff=meetup) ✅ Limited spots, so reserve your seat on Eventbrite! Check all of our events at [https://www.torontoeventhub.com/](https://www.torontoeventhub.com/)

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/toronto-ON/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

**THIS WILL BA A BI-WEEKLY EVENT TO CHAT, LAUGH, AND GET TO KNO**W EACH OTHER. NO PRESSURE TO ATTEND - JUST VISIT OR DROP IN...(members only please) ***Be kind and rsvp so that the host knows how many tables to save.*** **Anyone that is not a member will be asked politely to leave and apply to TSSC if they so choose.** Bring yourself and your sense of humor. The group can decide it's own agenda of chat after a few meetups. I know it is difficult NOT to talk about politics or religion, but we are a social group whose premise is fun! As tempting as it can be, please restrain and stick to topics less heated. **We will meet at 2PM. Please try and be on time. ENTER FROM 55** **AVENUE ROAD, DOWN THE STAIRCASE AND INTO THE FOOD COURT.** PARKING : [Avenue Road Toronto parking - free or cheap lots, garages and street meter spots (parkopedia.ca)](https://en.parkopedia.ca/parking/avenue_road_toronto/?arriving=202409231130&leaving=202409231330) **THANKS FOR HOSTING JIM!**

Join us for an evening of learning and networking at the Canadian Real Estate Investor Podcast's Toronto Meetup, sponsored by Sherwin-Williams. Whether you are new to real estate investing or looking to enhance your skills, this event is designed for all levels of experience. Our group of seasoned real estate agents, investors, and entrepreneurs will share their knowledge and insights on topics such as mortgages, property management, and investment strategies. Connect with like-minded individuals in the Toronto real estate community and gain valuable industry connections. Learn from successful investors, benefit from real estate networking opportunities, and discover the keys to successful entrepreneurship in the competitive market. Don't miss out on this event tailored to help you take your real estate investing game to the next level.

Practice and improve your English through conversation at St. Andrew Centre (73 Simcoe St, downtown Toronto), while making new friends! \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- How to Get to the Event: By TTC, exit at St. Andrew Station. Walk west on King St. West to Simcoe St. Do not enter through the church building; the large church front doors will be closed. At the corner of Simcoe St. and King St. West, turn south and walk on Simcoe St. Enter through St. Andrew Centre, which will be behind the church building.

Join us for an evening of learning and networking at the Canadian Real Estate Investor Podcast's Peel Meetup, sponsored by Sherwin-Williams & hosted by local experts Paolo Castellano, Danny Cordeiro, and Leo Loiero from the MidUrban Developments Team. Whether you are new to real estate investing or looking to enhance your skills, this event is designed for all levels of experience. Our group of seasoned real estate agents, investors, and entrepreneurs will share their knowledge and insights on topics such as mortgages, property management, and investment strategies. Connect with like-minded individuals in the Peel real estate community and gain valuable industry connections. Learn from successful investors, benefit from real estate networking opportunities, and discover the keys to successful entrepreneurship in the competitive market. Don't miss out on this event tailored to help you take your real estate investing game to the next level.

The Church of St. Timothy is excited to offer support to newcomers in Canada. Our goal is to provide conversational language practice through informal instruction and feedback in a welcoming and diverse community. All levels welcome! We invite all new-comers, English language students, visitors to Canada, parents of children temporarily attending schools in Toronto, international university students, and anyone looking to enhance their language skills. We aim to build community where friendships can flourish, in order to help participants establish meaningful connections, learn about life in Toronto, and access practical resources as you settle in to this new city and country. We begin every Tuesday at 10:00 a.m. with time to socialize. Our formal program begins at 10:30 a.m. Each week we will have different activities and topics, including practicing English conversation, reading short articles, learning about common pronunciation and grammar mistakes, etc. Our volunteers would love to get to know you and offer gentle and constructive feedback to help you improve your English!

A relaxed, peaceful and inspired space to cultivate your creative work flow and accomplish what you have set out to do for the day. You are invited into an energized, peaceful and loving co-working space brought to you by Soul Guided "Community Empowerment Network. Click here to join the FB Group ----> [https://www.facebook.com/share/g/hrXN76q8ajyezbbY/](https://www.facebook.com/groups/soulguidednetwork/?__cft__%5B0%5D=AZawTDSR4MxwxRFKd9h5nf8BWCZVGedrzK75YTONt5j_nCWiwN2HFToH9XnGbmMwMlAvft2_oGF5b9xkztvV2N1u3fv9nGwUuQgYQrOqBx5u7Q&__tn__=q) Come into a shanti "peaceful" work space and expect chill mood music, comfortable seating, optimal temperature, optional group break periods (some days will include breathwork, light yoga, walk, outdoor picnic). 𝘚𝘰𝘮𝘦 𝘤𝘰-𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘬 𝘥𝘢𝘺𝘴 𝘸𝘪𝘭𝘭 𝘩𝘢𝘷𝘦 𝘵𝘦𝘢, 𝘦𝘭𝘪𝘹𝘪𝘳𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘴𝘯𝘢𝘤𝘬𝘴 𝘢𝘷𝘢𝘪𝘭𝘢𝘣𝘭𝘦. 𝘍𝘪𝘭𝘵𝘦𝘳𝘦𝘥 𝘸𝘢𝘵𝘦𝘳 𝘪𝘴 𝘢𝘭𝘸𝘢𝘺𝘴 𝘢𝘷𝘢𝘪𝘭𝘢𝘣𝘭𝘦. Each meeting will begin with a short intro of each individual who is joining and space to share what you are working on, as well as some bigger goals/dreams you may have right now. This space is meant to lift each other up and to get to know each other during break periods. It is asked that during the work periods we are honour each individuals work flow and always ask if someone is available before attempting to interact/ask a question. 𝗟𝗼𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻: \~Soul Sanctuary Studio = 303 Pape Ave, Toronto ON \~Ceremony Room (downstairs) \~Free Parking on the Road 𝗘𝗻𝗲𝗿𝗴𝘆 𝗘𝘅𝗰𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗴𝗲: Free or By Donation Suggested Donation: $5-10 *If you will be eating the snacks or drinking tea/elixirs, please make a donation. Cash donations can be made at the studio, e-transfer/paypal to chrisdubkundalini@gmail.com or donate via eventbrite here ---> https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/co-working-flow-focused-peaceful-energized-space-to-work-tickets-1982620182336?* 𝗧𝗶𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗴: Thursdays from 11-5:00pm. (Every other Thursday) 𝗦𝗼𝘂𝗹 𝗚𝘂𝗶𝗱𝗲𝗱 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗺𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝘆 Click HERE for more ways you can get involved ---> https://linktr.ee/chrisdub And here to sign up for the Soul Guided Community Newsletter ---> [https://mailchi.mp/84b64bce4995/soulguided](https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fmailchi.mp%2F84b64bce4995%2Fsoulguided%3Ffbclid%3DIwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExVnNDc1JZdno1UGZmeFZmUnNydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR4jvvMVWiJScNLpr3SJQLi8T_QwVcJVSnMhi4qXrVPP-dLmS3JqCGPRtAzXCQ_aem_UyE2cXcPuNm1dVrwjSkAEA&h=AT6Z_kpk6kzo7KFaPPo5YNQhrt_bZ9EHEFj4aDP7k3YhyK217PS1GZqaTORCMJXjh4T68ueA7PiDYCwKjjy6eqtbGYA39bAwx3W4BsXCz6SVwTZxJSAr41twQrzyYp7uVlZrTrskTxwOtw33Se_lWw&__tn__=q&c%5B0%5D=AT6xms8PWY7F_u7qMe7dXlxXeAk8V5qp9BBMv82B68IeWMpR4AyPb9NTHJ_Uk6KkNvM9E42NZlhisSsWPBUrXtNXfgZUXdxWd7vYrLOQRIbR_A_RW0P9fcvX2pq2wHmf)

Pottery Night at Orkid Gallery! All tools included. No experience needed—just come create, connect & sip tea with us! 3-hour workshop.

**NO MUSICAL EXPERIENCE REQUIRED** **About Drum & Soul** Drum & Soul is a participatory community space that combines drumming, singing, reflection and conversation in one shared experience. Through rhythms from different cultures, collective music making and meaningful discussion around a focused theme, we practise qualities that strengthen both the individual and the community. This is more than a drumming circle. It is a space where people can grow in expression, presence, listening, and contribution, while learning how these same qualities can be carried into everyday life and relationships. --- ... **Why come** Come if you want to grow your expressive capacity, feel more at ease participating with others, and be part of a growing space that celebrates the human in us. Everyone is welcome, regardless of age, background or musical experience. If you feel shy in groups, that is completely natural. Many people arrive unsure and leave feeling surprisingly at home. --- ... **How it works** --- We begin with a short breathing and centring exercise, followed by simple rhythm demonstration and call and response drumming. We then move into smaller group discussion around a shared theme. From there we shift into collective jamming and improvisation, and end with a potluck meal and informal connection. --- ... **Typical meeting flow** 1. 🫱🏽‍🫲🏻 Arrival & social time – 15 min 2. 🙋🏻‍♀️ Welcome, check in and centring – 15 min 3. 🪘 Call & Respond **Drumming & demo** – 20 min 4. 💬 Facilitated **Discussion** on the Theme (groups of five-or so) – 20 min 5. 🕺🏽 Open **Jamming** with multiple instruments – 30 min 6. 🦋 Potluck **dinner** & social time afterwards – 60 min *This outline is flexible and may shift to suit the group and the space.* --- ... **Logistics & what to bring** We meet in a large and beautiful space. Drums are available on a first come first served basis. We also provide plenty of small percussion instruments so every hand can play. You are welcome to bring your own drum or instrument. We end the evening with a shared **potluck meal**, an extension of the circle where conversation and connection continue. Since the event is free, we warmly ask everyone to bring a small item to share if they are able. Simple finger foods and easy to serve savoury items are especially helpful, such as fruit, veggies and dip, wraps, sandwiches, hummus and pita, samosas, spring rolls, crackers and cheese, or other meal friendly bites. Sweet items are welcome too, but meal friendly contributions are especially appreciated. --- ... **Cost & contributions** --- This is a free event. If you are unable to bring food, you are welcome to make an optional contribution toward refreshments and materials by e-transfer to **hooshmandnyc@gmail.com** --- ... **Helpful notes** --- No prep needed. Doors open at 3:45 p.m. Please arrive by then so we can start at 4:00 p.m. sharp and keep the flow. Location and any last minute updates are posted on Meetup and in our WhatsApp group. We recommend joining the WhatsApp group (ask us for the link at the venue) for quick notices. --- ... **Life Between Gatherings** Drum & Soul does not begin and end with the monthly session. For those who want to continue beyond the gatherings and go deeper, we also have: • **Advanced sessions** for those who want to go further in drumming technique and explore the discussion themes more deeply in a smaller group • **Home or café meetups** for simple in-person connection, where a few participants can continue the conversation more personally and naturally • **Ongoing contact** so the spirit of the gathering can carry into everyday life through our own reflection, friendship and mutual encouragement Over time, these smaller spaces help strengthen connection, shared learning, and community life between sessions. Ask us about these features for more detail. --- ... **Why this matters** Our world is like a sick body, and is aching for a lasting remedy. We believe our special mission here is to nurture one another, define our roles in service to our fellow humans, and become living temples of unity. A meaningful growth unfolds through both self‑discovery and collective effort, and one cannot truly flourish without the other. Come open and prepared to learn, to offer your gifts, and to be strengthened by the power of community. *This ad is also posted in other groups* 📷 Follow us on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/artsoultoronto/) 🎥 [A glimpse from one of our sessions](https://youtu.be/ejfeV1PF-0k)

Do you ever find yourself looking for more from your relationships? Or finding that relating with others is challenging, and wish you could have help? This event may be for you. We’re having an afternoon of organized discussion about what it means to be human and to relate with others, followed by some connection exercises to practice skills and techniques. The theme this time is "Pride," in honor of Pride month. Pride is an interesting Janus-like word, with both positive and negative connotations. On the positive side, it's about appreciating oneself and one's accomplishments (or those of loved ones), and self-acceptance, self-esteem, and self-love. But it's also the first of the 7 Deadly Sins, and evokes more discreditable feelings such as vanity, haughtiness, arrogance, hubris, and narcissism. We're going to dig into Pride in all its guises with exercises chosen to explore this theme. And in our open discussion section, we'll delve into how we see pride show up in our lives, for good and for ill. The discussion salon will include opportunities to share feelings in groups of different sizes. It’s a chance to feel heard and connected, and to practice openness and compassion and empathy. The connection exercises, following the discussion, will provide an opportunity to learn and practice skills that are helpful for open relating. These exercises may include opportunities for gentle, non-sexual touch and may tenderly touch on challenging edges for some people, including the possibility of some clothing optional exercises towards the end. Participants are always at choice, including choosing to observe the exercise or leave this part of the program. After the salon there will be a small casual gathering with snacks and a chance to connect informally. The duration of the event is about 3 hours. There is a suggested donation of $15 to cover the cost of snacks and materials. A donation jar will be available at the event. I will be asking registered participants and people wanting to be on the wait list for contact information other than Meetup, either a phone # for texting or a Facebook contact for messaging. This is because often things change at the last minute (e.g. spaces open up for the waitlist, people have questions about parking, etc., etc.) and I want to be able to contact you quickly, and experience has shown that most people don't check Meetup messages frequently enough to communicate quickly enough. Unless I have this contact information from you I won't add you to the list of attendees - so if you're new, please send me a message with your info when you sign up, and I'll send you a confirmation that you're registered. I will send information about address and logistics to registered participants a few days before the event.

We've been attending these **ARTbus** trips for many years. Not always able to get them posted on MEETUP-as they fill up quite quickly. $20 ticket link is below. Purchase your OWN ticket when you RSVP on Meetup. **In partnership with the Art Gallery of Burlington, Oakville Galleries invites you to join us for the Summer 2026 ARTbus.** (We rent a BUS--ok its a **yellow school bus**--but it works!) Hence the $20 price! **$20 per person** at the *link below. (By signing up--signals to me that you've purchased your $20 ticket--LET me know via Meetup email)* Would you like to join in this next one/upcoming? **Saturday June 13th.** This will be incredible afternoon!! International artists. **BUS pickup and drop off is 5-10 walk from Bloor/Dufferin TTC** **Contemporary Art Bus Tour** **SATURDAY June 13th (11:30am-6pm)** Let someone else DRIVE while we enjoy socializing and ART learning. **Reserve your own seat ($20)** and enjoy an inspiring afternoon across three leading art institutions. **TICKET link here (with all details)--** https://www.oakvillegalleries.com/artbus_2026_summer Please be on TIME. Plan ahead.

🎨🌳 **ROSEDALE ART FAIR & HALF-PRICE WINGS SOCIAL** 🌳🎨 Art, Beautiful Streets & One of Toronto’s Best Wing Spots Join us for a relaxed afternoon at the Rosedale Art Fair — an outdoor art event set in one of Toronto’s most beautiful and upscale neighbourhoods. Featuring over 80 Canadian artists, the fair has become a favourite destination for art lovers, collectors, designers, and anyone who simply enjoys wandering through creative spaces on a summer day. Expect: 🖼️ Paintings, photography & sculpture 🎨 Emerging and established Canadian artists 🌳 Tree-lined streets and Rosedale charm ☀️ A relaxed afternoon with good conversation This is not a formal art tour — it’s a social outing to enjoy the atmosphere, discover artwork, and spend time together. 📲 **Join Our WhatsApp Group:**[ Click here to join](https://chat.whatsapp.com/DRFTkxRlHS4B3IL1lMleUd) 🚶‍♂️ What We’ll Do We’ll spend about an hour walking through the fair, browsing the artwork, chatting, and taking in the atmosphere. Afterward, we’ll head over to The Crown and Dragon for food and drinks. 🍗 Bonus: Their famous chicken wings are HALF PRICE that day. The Crown and Dragon is known for having some of the best wings in Toronto, but they also have plenty of other classic pub food options as well. Sometimes the best part of these events is hanging out afterward. 😊 *** 🧢 Meetup Details 📍 Meetup Location: Outside Rosedale Station 🫎 I’ll be wearing my Moose Hat ⏰ Meetup Time: (Insert time) I will only wait 5 minutes. Early is on time. On time is late. *** 🎟️ Meetup Fee: $5 cash in person or e-transfer to 📧 **mathewmaclean@hotmail.com** This fee helps support the group and allows us to continue hosting events like this. Thank you for supporting community! 💖 *** 🎒 What to Bring Water Comfortable walking shoes Money for food/drinks afterward Sunglasses or sunscreen if it’s sunny ☀️ *** 🌈 Who Is This For? This group is open to anyone who wants to be social and make friends — whether single or not. We also host: 🎬 Movies 🚶 Walks & hikes 🎭 Arts & culture outings 🍽️ Restaurant gatherings There’s always something happening. *** REMEMBER: You’re welcome to just show up on the day if you’re unsure about your schedule. And as always, sometimes plans shift and events may need to be canceled — please keep an eye on updates. *** 👤 Organizer: Mathew Questions? Post on the event wall or email 📧 torontomoviesandoutings@hotmail.com Come for the art. Stay for the wings. Leave with a full stomach and maybe a new favourite artist. 🎨🍗✨

**CAIRN Launch Meeting** **Community AI Research Network** **Humans + AI Solving Real-World Problems** **Date: June 13, 2026** **Time: 1:00 PM–3:00 PM** **Location: Bull Run Library, Manassas, Virginia** **1:00 PM – Welcome & Networking (20 min)** * **Meet members and introductions** * **Why you joined CAIRN** * **Networking** **Icebreaker: “What problem would you like AI to help solve?”** **1:20 PM – Welcome to CAIRN (15 min)** **Presenter: Edith Mbuyi** **Topics:** * **CAIRN’s mission and vision** * **AI for community impact** * **Member opportunities** * **Future projects and publications** **Motto: Research. Discuss. Create. Publish. Solve.** **1:35 PM – Meet the AI Team (20 min)** **Overview of ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini, Copilot, Perplexity, Grok, and NotebookLM.** **Discussion:** * **Strengths of each tool** * **Comparing perspectives** * **Fact-checking and responsible use** * **Importance of human judgment** **1:55 PM – Live AI Demonstration (25 min)** **Challenge: “How can communities better prepare students for the future workforce?”** **Activities:** * **Compare AI responses** * **Evaluate recommendations** * **Build a draft action plan** **2:20 PM – Break (10 min)** **2:30 PM – Small Group Research Challenge (20 min)** **Teams explore topics such as education, healthcare, transportation, digital equity, business, senior services, or safety.** **Each group:** 1. **Defines a problem** 1. **Uses AI to explore solutions** 1. **Discusses findings** 1. **Recommends an action** **2:50 PM – Group Presentations** **Share problem, AI findings, recommendation, and next steps.** **2:55 PM – Building CAIRN’s Future** **Discuss meeting topics, speakers, research teams, publications, and membership.** **3:00 PM – Closing** **Founding Question: “What challenge should CAIRN tackle next?”** **Collect contact information and invite attendees to become Founding Members.** **Goals** **✅ Learn collaborative AI research** **✅ Explore multiple AI systems** **✅ Connect with innovators** **✅ Develop real-world solutions** **✅ Help shape CAIRN’s future** **Community AI Research Network** **Humans + AI Solving Real-World Problems** **Research. Discuss. Create. Publish. Solve**

⚡ **Reset your mindset. Meet someone unexpected. Walk away with new clarity.** Join us for a free, small-group gathering held in our **Startup Garage** — a **spacious, comfortable living-room style space** inside a single-family home. Think couches, coffee, and real conversation — **not an actual garage 😊** 🔁 You’ll be **paired** with different attendees throughout the event for short, energizing rounds — each sparked by a simple **opening line** designed to make you laugh, reflect, and think bigger about what comes next. You won’t just talk about what’s behind you — You’ll begin to **picture what’s ahead** in a way that actually excites you. *** **☕ Coffee and snacks are on me.** Just show up with a curious mind — and a willingness to laugh. We’ll guide you through questions that blend **wisdom and humor** — the kind that help you see your story through a new lens. *** **🔍 What You’ll Experience** • One-on-one rounds to explore purpose, identity, and new possibilities • Light, energizing activities designed to shift your mindset in under 10 minutes • Fresh insights from people you’ve never met — but may never forget • A laid-back, thoughtful space to connect without pressure *** **💼 Who It’s For** • Divorced/Separated or midlife professionals figuring out what’s next • Entrepreneurs, builders, and creatives in a season of reinvention • Men and women who prefer **meaningful conversation** over surface level talk Whether you’re starting over, scaling up, or just ready for something more aligned — this space is for you. *** 📊 *Most attendees are in their 30s, 40s, or 50s — navigating life and growth with curiosity, clarity, and a sense of humor.* 🛋️ **Hosted in a spacious living-room setting** inside a single-family home (Ashburn). Full address shared after RSVP. 🌐 Explore more: [https://midlifereinvention.co](https://midlifereinvention.co)

**In a time of division and isolation, come be part of the community that's rebuilding the town square, one table at a time.** **This dinner in particular will be very special as we celebrate America's 250th birthday. How better to honor a semiquincentennial of democracy that spending an evening practicing it?** In BreadBreakers, we use the common space of the dining table to have conversations where neighbors can **hear, be heard, and know one another.** If you're hungry for good conversation and deeper community, join us for a Community Dinner in Reston and help blaze the trail to a healthier, more connected society and democracy. Here’s how it works: For just two hours, multiple tables of people set aside the need to "win" and instead focus on sharing, listening, and connecting. Guided by experienced table hosts, we'll tell our stories, try to understand each other, and practice being in community with those with different views or backgrounds. **At this dinner, participants will get to choose between three different topics, including some current events.** Topics range from the political, to the "slice of life", to the spiritual, to the philosophical, to the off-the-wall - but no matter which table you choose to sit at, you can be sure it'll be like no dinner conversation you've had before! You can also **suggest a topic** by emailing us at BreadBreakersInfo@gmail.com. Food will be provided for free. For those who wish to provide a donation to help fund BreadBreakers, you can [give here](https://pushpay.com/g/restorationrestonumc?fnd=pO6G-N7oO7FH7Mp1u-x6mA&fndv=Lock&r=No&lang=en&src=pcgl) or at the event. We'll have vegetarian and gluten-free options available. If you have any additional dietary restrictions (Celiac Disease, vegan, etc.) please let us know at BreadBreakersInfo@gmail.com so that we can implement the appropriate food handling procedures. **Join us, invite a friend, and be a part of the movement to mend our fractured society and normalize a better way of talking with one another.** BreadBreakers, an initiative by [Restoration United Methodist Church](https://restorationreston.org/breadbreakers) in Reston, VA, is a religiously inclusive community. We are a collaboration between people of all faiths and stripes. Our leadership, volunteer team, and community include people who attend Restoration and people who don't.

## 1 Million Cups Loudoun – Business Presentation ### Featuring Mary Hartshorn, Founder of Craft Alchemy **Wednesday\, June 10 \| 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM** **Venture X Loudoun** Join us as we welcome **Mary Hartshorn**, founder of **Craft Alchemy**, to the 1 Million Cups Loudoun stage. *** ## About the Presenter Mary Hartshorn is an Army Veteran, entrepreneur, and founder of Craft Alchemy. With a background in communications and logistics and an MBA earned in 2016, Mary spent years developing expertise in e-commerce, digital products, automation systems, Shopify, Etsy, and customer-focused product development while raising her family and navigating military life. In 2024, a personal moment of crisis inspired Mary to create a tool that could help others facing similar challenges. What began as a resource for veterans quickly evolved into a broader solution designed to support individuals and families navigating autism, mental health challenges, caregiving responsibilities, medical conditions, and other situations where communication can become difficult during times of stress. *** ## About the Business Craft Alchemy has developed the **Anchor Tag Support System**, a personalized QR-based support hub that helps individuals quickly access calming tools, emergency contacts, support resources, and personalized information when they need it most. Designed to bridge the gap between physical and digital support, Anchor Tags provide a practical, accessible tool for Veterans, First Responders, autism families, caregivers, mental health advocates, schools, healthcare providers, and organizations focused on community well-being. Rather than creating another app, Craft Alchemy offers a real-world solution that can be carried, accessed quickly, and utilized during moments when support and communication matter most. *** ## Who Mary Is Looking to Hear From Mary would especially value feedback and connections from: * Veteran support organizations * First responder support groups * Mental health professionals and advocates * Autism and disability support organizations * School administrators and special education professionals * Healthcare and caregiving professionals * Nonprofit leaders * Community outreach specialists * Government contracting and partnership advisors * Local leaders focused on community impact initiatives *** ## Current Business Focus & Challenge Craft Alchemy is currently in its early growth and partnership stage. Mary's primary focus is building awareness, establishing strategic partnerships, and expanding opportunities within organizations and community-based networks. She is seeking feedback around: * Building strategic partnerships * Scaling awareness organically * Expanding into schools, nonprofits, and community organizations * Navigating government and organizational opportunities * Growing a mission-driven business without relying heavily on paid advertising She would also appreciate introductions to individuals and organizations connected to veterans, first responders, mental health advocacy, autism support, caregiving, education, and community health initiatives. *** ## Why Attend? * Learn about an innovative solution designed to support people during moments of stress and crisis * Provide valuable feedback to a mission-driven entrepreneur * Connect with community leaders, advocates, and professionals across multiple industries * Be part of a meaningful conversation around accessibility, support, and community impact *** ## About 1 Million Cups 1 Million Cups is a national program that brings entrepreneurs and communities together to learn, connect, and grow through presentations and discussion. Loudoun’s chapter meets on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays each month. Join us on **June 10** for coffee, connection, and a conversation about creating practical solutions that strengthen individuals, families, and communities. We look forward to seeing you there.

**Looking for a group you can write with *whilst sipping your fave coffee*?** ☕✍️ Then come join **Shut Up & Write!** on **Saturday, June 13th from 1:30pm to 4:00pm** at **Ridgetop Coffee & Tea**! Whether you're cranking out a novel, journaling, looking for new friends, or just trying to get that stubborn paragraph right—we’ve got a cozy seat and a supportive group waiting for you! **No critiques, no peer review, no pressure—just a chill space to get words on the page.** 📝 **What to expect:** 1:30–2:00pm – Grab your coffee or tea, find your seat, and meet your fellow writers. 2:00pm–3:30pm – Silent, focused writing time 3:30–4:00pm – Debrief, celebrate any writing wins, commiserate on any obstacles, and head out feeling accomplished. **RSVP Info:** The room seats only 10 people comfortably! RSVP as soon as possible to secure your spot!! If you are unable to attend, please cancel your reservation **ASAP** so those on the wait list are able to RSVP and attend!!! **Meeting Room:** Enter the coffee shop, walk straight towards the play area and on your left you will see a meeting room just past the bathrooms. The room has a TV, white board, and walls are painted green. **What to Bring:** Whatever helps you focus, and be productive. There is a wall outlet at each end of the room, so you're able to bring your laptop to write, but please bring your own charging tools. You're welcome to bring headphones if you enjoy listening to music while working. **Parking & Accessibility:** there is a large parking lot out front and it is free! There are no stair cases when entering the coffee shop or when inside. This coffee shop is incredibly spacious with many seating options. If you have any questions, please message me through MeetUp. I'm happy to help. **Dietary Information:** many GF, Vegan, and SF options. Just ask your barista when ordering for specifics! Can’t wait to see you there! 🎉

Our next club meeting is on Sunday will start at 2:15, please join early. if you're coming in-person, parking is free and usually ample at the Community College on Sundays, and most of us park where the spaces are designated for staff and have never had a problem. 👉 Everyone is welcome to join our meeting, participate and practice. You'll get a chance to hear our club members speak and then have an opportunity to play the table topics game. **Agenda for the Meeting:** 1. Warm Up 2. Prepared Speeches (By club members) 3. Table Topics Game (Learn to think on your feet) 4. Feedback **Online - Join us via Zoom** https://us05web.zoom.us/j/86218205188 If you haven't used Zoom before, watch this short video on how to join our meeting - https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=45&v=vFhAEoCF7jg **In-Person** **\- Join us at Montgomery Community College** Meet us at Science Building, room SC 152. The room is located on the ground floor. The exact building address is https://goo.gl/maps/ZEgQH7bKLvzdqtSQ9 For help, please text or call, 301-917-4202.

Finally - after a six month break the Music Cave is back in operation. Please join June 20. Friendly get-togethers to play music, sing, drum, and learn. Musicians, singers, professionals, amateurs, beginners, all musical levels and all kinds of instruments welcome. We have informal/casual gatherings where you can enjoy playing music and singing with other members, can meet friendly people, and get inspired by others. Every meeting is adifferent combination! All musical levels, including beginners, are welcome, so long as you enjoy it! Bring extra instruments if you have them. Please come with 2 or 3 songs in mind that you would like to learn or play. Do not use the front door. Enter through the gate to the left rear of the house and the basement.