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Frequently Asked Questions

Yes! Check out fundraising events happening today here. These are in-person gatherings where you can meet fellow enthusiasts and participate in activities right now.

Discover all the fundraising events taking place this week here. Plan ahead and join exciting meetups throughout the week.

Absolutely! Find fundraising events near your location here. Connect with your local community and discover events within your area.

Fundraising Events Today

Join in-person Fundraising events happening right now

Founders Running Club :: Berlin
Founders Running Club :: Berlin
**Founders Running Club** (FRC) brings founders, investors, tech, creative people and startup enthusiasts together for weekly easy runs and networking. We like to be comfortable when we run and finish with coffee and conversations. Choose your pace or follow a pacer—pets, friends, family, are welcome. 🗓️ Launched in San Francisco, July 16, 2022 🌍 Now in 35+ cities 📅 Running + Networking events + Community **Join the community** [http://foundersrc.com/chats](http://foundersrc.com/chats) **Stay updated**: Instagram [http://instagram.com/foundersrc/](http://instagram.com/foundersrc/) Podcast [http://podcast.foundersrc.com/](http://podcast.foundersrc.com/) LinkedIn [http://linkedin.com/company/foundersrc/](http://linkedin.com/company/foundersrc/) Strava [http://strava.com/clubs/foundersRC](http://strava.com/clubs/foundersRC) Website [http://foundersrc.com/](http://foundersrc.com/)
Soundground: free improvised music workshop
Soundground: free improvised music workshop
**A place to meet sound, without maps** Facilitated by **Vesti Gium (they/them)** Everyone enters as they are. No score. No threshold of skill. We follow the room, moment by moment— listening, nudging, letting the music find itself. A breath, a shoelace, a laugh, a footstep— each carries weight. Silence is welcomed; noise is celebrated. There are no wrong directions here. We practise a listening that reaches outward and inward: to ourselves, to one another, to the space we shape together. That is where the music begins. * 🌀 Bring a voice, an object, an instrument, a movement—or nothing at all. * ✨ **Priority given to FLINTA folks and people with migration background.** * 🎧 No experience needed. Curiosity is enough. * 📍 Berlin – \[theodorstraße 5,12099] * 🗓 Every Saturday 12:00 * 📬 DM or email **[vestigium.impro@gmail.com](mailto:vestigium.impro@gmail.com)** to join Come make sound—come be heard.
Berlin. Vibe Coding Club - Lovable
Berlin. Vibe Coding Club - Lovable
**IMPORTANT! Please register at** [Luma Page](https://luma.com/9svvrv99) ​Vibecoding is no longer the question. What matters is what you actually do with it. **​On May 9** at **Spiced Academy (Berlin)**, we meet to figure that out in practice — using **[Lovable](https://lovable.dev/)**. No lectures, no slides. You open the tool and start working. ​[Projector Global community](https://www.linkedin.com/company/projector-global-community/) ambassadors and mentors will guide you through the basics, help you navigate the process, and answer your specific questions. **​This event is for those who:** — already have some experience in vibecoding — want to test a tool hands-on instead of watching demos — are stuck on something specific and want a real answer ​Come with a question. Even better — submit it during registration. ​We recommend creating an account in advance so you can jump straight in. **Mentors** During the session, you’ll be supported by experienced builders and designers: * **[Vitalik Kotik](https://www.linkedin.com/in/vitali-kotick/)** — CEO & Co-Founder @Superapp, ex-Bolt Senior Product Designer * **[Yevheniia Liubchyk](https://www.linkedin.com/in/yevheniia-liubchyk/)** — Product Designer @Zoi * **[Olha Kirdiaieva](https://www.linkedin.com/in/olha-kirdiaieva/)** — UX Designer @JUPUS * **[Danilo De la Fuente](https://www.linkedin.com/in/danilo-de-la-fuente-product-manager/)** — Founder @Arma Music, Product Manager They’ll be there to help you unblock, give direction, and support your ideas in real time. **​Tool Partner — Lovable​** This event is supported by [Lovable](https://lovable.dev/) \- an AI\-powered tool for building products faster\, without getting stuck in complexity\. ​Lovable helps you turn ideas into working solutions, experiment quickly, and focus on what matters - logic, flow, and outcomes. ​Participants will receive free credits to explore the tool during the session. Learn more: [https://lovable.dev/](https://lovable.dev/?utm_source=luma) **​Venue Host​​​** Hosted by [Spiced Academy](https://www.spiced-academy.com/en) — a Berlin tech education hub focused on hands-on learning in AI, Data, UX/UI, and Product, and building a strong tech community. **Hosts**​​​ This event is organized by [Projector Global Community](https://www.linkedin.com/company/projector-global-community/) ambassadors (by [Projector Institute](https://prjctr.com/en/about)): * ​​​[Emiliia Karpiuk](https://www.linkedin.com/in/emiliiakarpiuk/?utm_source=luma) * ​​[Julia Savchuk](https://www.linkedin.com/in/yuliia-savchuk/?utm_source=luma) **​​​​Photos & Video** ​​​​Please note that we will be taking photos at this event. By attending, you agree to be photographed, and grant the organisers permission to use this footage online and for marketing purposes (e.g., on social media or our websites).
The Gift of Folding @ Das Gift 🎁
The Gift of Folding @ Das Gift 🎁
An origami tradition has by now taken root at **[Das Gift](https://www.instagram.com/dasgiftberlin/)**, a cosy Scottish pub (special info for all post-rock fans: Mogwai was its previous owner! 😱) in central Neukölln. Known for its creative spirit and friendly vibe, it’s the perfect backdrop for an evening full of origami, good company, and pretending we are far more coordinated than we actually are 🍺 What you can expect at all our events: * **Mandatory donation (amount of your choice)** – this supports essential costs like the Meetup subscription and keeps our community thriving 🌱 You can either submit a **physical donation** to the event host in person or make a **digital donation** **[here](https://paypal.me/origamiberlin?locale.x=de_DE&country.x=DE)** (and inform the host afterwards). * In-person folding practice for all levels – beginners and experienced folders are equally welcome. * Origami paper + model instructions will be provided (from the host’s collection, for reference only). Feel free to bring your own favorite sheets or tools! * Photos may be taken for memories & our archive (Meetup, Instagram, Telegram) – let the host know if you prefer not to appear. * **We kindly encourage everyone to order at least one drink to support [Das Gift](https://www.instagram.com/dasgiftberlin/) for hosting us!** They are also kind enough to allow outside food, so feel free to bring something to snack on or share with the group if you wish! ⚠️ **RSVP Policy – Please Read** ⚠️ Our community has grown a lot since its birth in August 2024, which is amazing — but it also means we need to handle RSVPs more carefully: * RSVP opens **7 days before** each event (apart from short-notice events) and closes at **noon on the event day**. * Please cancel your spot or contact the host directly (via Meetup message function or our [Telegram channel](https://t.me/+T4URs80l2ig3NWNi)) by **noon on the event day** if you can't make it last minute. * Members with **2 no-shows** (without notice) will be removed from the group unless a valid reason is provided. Thank you for keeping things fun and reliable together as a community! 🙏 Get in touch if you have questions anytime, see you all at the folding tables very soon! 🍺
Sound Healing Sessions  Pranayama & Yin Yoga
Sound Healing Sessions Pranayama & Yin Yoga
Join us for a transformative experience in our Sound Healing Sessions where we explore the power of musical therapy and spiritual healing. Through the harmonious sounds of various instruments and guided meditations, participants will immerse themselves in a journey of self-discovery and inner peace. This session offers a unique blend of music and spirituality, creating a sacred space for healing and relaxation. Whether you are looking to release stress, balance your chakras, or simply rejuvenate your mind, body, and soul, this session is designed to help you tune into your inner harmony and well-being. Come and connect with like-minded individuals in a supportive environment and elevate your senses through the healing vibrations of sound. Soundhealing meets Yin Yoga Patinka(yoga) aka Patricia Joanna, praktiziert & lebt Yoga. Ein absolute Crossover in der Vielfalt an Yogastilen die sie erlernt & ausgebildet ist. Yin Yoga unterrichtet sie mit einer gewissen Ruhe, klarheit, sowohl echter tiefe. In der Natur wird es nochmal ein ganz besonderer Highlight sein sich im loslassen zu üben und zu erden. Der Plan 1\. Grounding mit Sound Healing 2\. Pranayama 3\. Yin Yoga Part 4\. Sound Healing 5\. Circle talk ♡ Language ? English & Deutsch \*\*The Meet Up is free, but you are welcome to make a donation if you wish Donation-based event. Recommended amount: 20-30 EUR \*\* Please bring your own yoga mat and any props you may need for your practice. Comfortable and warm clothing is recommended. Looking forward to meeting soon! Follow us on Instagram: @patinkayoga @dazasound
Outdoor Silent Reading/Creating Club at Tilla-Durieux-Park [Luma to RSVP]
Outdoor Silent Reading/Creating Club at Tilla-Durieux-Park [Luma to RSVP]
RSVP on [Luma](https://luma.com/0f3ue7fu?utm_source=Meetup). Silent Reading / Creating Club is a gathering for people who enjoy focusing together in public. Bring a book, a notebook, a sketchpad, knitting needles, whatever you’d like to spend a quiet hour doing. All projects and all participants are welcome. We’re building a community of readers and creators who value depth, presence, and shared silence. The reading and creating isn't the real highlight, though, it’s in the people who return and make it feel like a familiar room. (Please RSVP “yes” only if you can make it, so we can save a seat for you and others on the waitlist.) Our Meeting Point is in the middle of the **Tilla-Durieux-Park near Potsdamer Platz**. Bring a picnic blanket, a cushion, and maybe some snacks/a drink! No assignments, expectations, or pressure. Just a shared hour of intentional silence, followed by the opportunity for good conversation. 🕰 Our Agenda **10:30 – 11:00** Arrivals, ordering drinks/food, light social time **11:00 – 12:00** The Great Quiet Hour (Read. Write. Sketch. Code. Think. Sit.) **12:00 – 12:30** Optional socializing: share what you were reading or creating, or simply continue in quiet focus. ## 🏡 House Guidelines To keep this space calm and welcoming for everyone: • Silence during the focus hour (no calls or conversations) • Put cellphones on silent mode • If using technology, please avoid meetings or audio (headphones please!) • Arrive before 11:00 if possible to minimize disruptions
Collaborate. Co-create. Elevate.
Collaborate. Co-create. Elevate.
**Hello founders/builders! Come join us and be part of the inner circle of the Founders' Community.** **We’re keeping it small and intentional with people who are either building or ready to.** **Because one sharp conversation is worth more than ten casual ones.** **What to expect on 9th May :** **15:00-16:00 : Meet & greet ; Networking** **16:00-17:30 : Pitch & get evaluated by an expert** **17:30-18:00 : Info session on How to Stand Out as a Founder in the age of AI** **If this resonates, please register by filling out our [form](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1EqQ_W12r147DRKKUAxm_MtZieVLah02mbbbxTt_Wzkg/edit). Responses help us shape the room intentionally.**

Fundraising Events This Week

Discover what is happening in the next few days

Portrait Drawing on Sunday Afternoon
Portrait Drawing on Sunday Afternoon
This group is for everyone who is interested in drawing portraits! For me, drawing has been a wonderful way to gain a new perspective on the world and the people within it. Whether you are just starting out or have been drawing for ages — all levels are welcome :) How it works: 1\. We meet at The Castle pub in Mitte and do short sittings of 15 minutes for each other\. The first sitting is divided into 3 warm\-up sketches\, 5 minutes each\. 2\. Before we start\, everybody writes their name on a blank card \(provided by the organizer\); these cards are then used to randomly pick the model every 15 minutes\. 3\. Usually we do 8 sittings\, with a 15\-minute break in the middle \(so after 4 sittings\, or 1 hour\)\. -> The participation is free, but it is expected that everybody orders something from the bar to support the lovely location. Get out your pencils and let's start! Please bring your own art supplies!
30 min Swim and Coffee 🌅🌊👋☕
30 min Swim and Coffee 🌅🌊👋☕
**Join us for a swim at Stadtbad Tiergarten Pool (near Hauptbahnhof)!** Hey everyone, We are doing a casual non-professional swim. It's an indoor heated (+26°C) pool, and I'd love for you to join us! We'll be gathering for a casual chill 30-minute swim. No need to race or compete, just enjoy the water and calm after completing the swim. Afterwards we go to a nearby café for coffees and chat, but no pressure to stick around - totally optional! **Bring** * swimsuit * towel * 1 Euro coin (for a locker) * ticket (5.50€, buy online or on site) **Where** In the entrance hall inside the pool.
ACX Spring Meetups Everywhere 2026
ACX Spring Meetups Everywhere 2026
Let's meet for the [ACX Spring Meetups Everywhere 2026](https://www.astralcodexten.com/p/meetups-everywhere-spring-2026-times) in the Humboldthain! This will likely be a big meetup, as it was announced by Scott on ACX. From experience, I expect 25–50 attendees. Humboldthain is good to reach by public transport; the next train stops are S+U Gesundbrunnen and S Humboldthain. If you’re reading this, you’re invited. Please don’t feel like you "won't be welcome" just because you’re new to the blog, demographically different from the average reader, or hate ACX and everything it stands for. You'll be fine! I'll buy some snacks; feel free to bring something to share as well. There are also many restaurants around if you get hungry. Location: Big lawn at the center of Humboldthain — [https://plus.codes/9F4MG9WP+36](https://plus.codes/9F4MG9WP+36) Contact: Reply to this event, message me here on Meetup, or join the Telegram group below. Next public toilet: [https://g.co/kgs/bp9nGd](https://g.co/kgs/bp9nGd) Group Link: [https://t.me/+tVWSc66-0UM5MzA6](https://t.me/+tVWSc66-0UM5MzA6)
Sunday Coffee Meeting
Sunday Coffee Meeting
Welcome Sunday Socials, Members of the group and friends meet there to exchange languages and their international experience or just have a good time to meet likeminded poeple! Currently we meet at the bar Alberts Starting time is 5pm.(Until 8pm) Adress: https://www.google.de/maps?q=alberts+charlottenburg&ion=1&espv=2&bav=on.2,or.r_cp.&bvm=bv.131783435,d.bGg&biw=1366&bih=628&dpr=1&um=1&ie=UTF-8&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEw... Grüße Andrea
Laughs and Drinks in an Art Gallery 😍
Laughs and Drinks in an Art Gallery 😍
**[Reserve Seats on Eventbrite](https://ComedyinArtGallery.eventbrite.de/?aff=meetup)** **(<= Required for entry)** **Show starts: 8pm in an upscale Mitte Art Gallery** The perfect blend of art, humour and socialising! **Laughing is contagious 😃 and has the power to bond people🙌** Welcome to an event that deserves your presence. We have booked an Art Gallery in Mitte and are showcasing an english comedy show by Prateek (IG: jazz.comedy) and creative game show that brings people together through laughs and conversations. We will be laughing a lot. **Event Details:** Gallery Opens: 7:30pm Event starts: 8:00pm Event ends: 9:30pm This is an English language event. **Pay what you want (at the end of the show).** This is not a free show. We just let you decide the price for the show (recommended 8-12 euros per person). We can't wait to see you there! **[Reserve Seats on Eventbrite](https://ComedyinArtGallery.eventbrite.de/?aff=meetup)** (<= Required for entry) **Host/Comedian:** **Prateek Jajoo (IG: jazz.comedy)** Prateek's been on the top comedy stages from Comedy Cellar in NYC to the cool clubs across Europe. Now, imagine a show that takes you on a hilarious journey through Asia, New York City, and Berlin, all through the eyes of an immigrant trying to integrate in different cultures as a local. IG: @jazz.comedy **Pay what you want (at the end of the show).** This is not a free show. We just let you decide the price for the show (recommended 8-12 euros per person).
Boardgames at Social Hub
Boardgames at Social Hub
Enjoy boardgames among a community of passionate people. Discover locals, build teams, collaborate with your opponent to win, but most importantly... Laugh and have fun... 😂 Please note that this event is hosted at the Social Hub. We do not own the place so everyone must buy at least 1 drink :) We hope to see many of you there...
Yoga by the Water
Yoga by the Water
I’ll be in the beautiful Treptower Park, and you’re warmly invited to join me for a calming yoga session by the water 🌿 No pressure, just come as you are. I’ll guide the practice based on the group, your needs, and how we feel in the moment. Hope to see you there!🪽 The class is donation-based. (the exact location will be send in private)

Fundraising Events Near You

Connect with your local Fundraising community

2026 OSU Chadwick Arboretum
Spring Plant Sale and Auction Fundraiser - Columbus
2026 OSU Chadwick Arboretum Spring Plant Sale and Auction Fundraiser - Columbus
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.
CMG Gives Back: Serve Brunch at FAITH MISSION GRANT KITCHEN!
CMG Gives Back: Serve Brunch at FAITH MISSION GRANT KITCHEN!
Join us as we get together to get together to help those in need at this CMG Gives Back event! We have a great little community of Movie Group friends so rather than see a movie this time, we’ll help “create a better world” by helping serve those in need. Here are complete details and our plan for this event: FAITH MISSION – GRANT KITCHEN: The Faith Mission kitchen and dining room serves residents 3 meals a day, every day of the year. For this event, our group will help prepare food, serve meals, assist residents in the dining room, wash dishes, and clean surfaces. PLAN: We will be preparing / serving / cleaning for BRUNCH from 10:30am to 12:30pm and have space for a total of 7 volunteers. Please arrive at 10:20am and wear closed-toe shoes and long pants. LOCATION: Faith Mission – Grant Kitchen is located at 245 N. Grant Ave. Enter the kitchen at Dock 1 (in the back of the building), indicated in the attached map. On-site parking in the adjacent lot and street parking is available in the surrounding area. Below are some links / attachments with additional info/details: IMPORTANT REMINDER: Our group will be providing all of the volunteers on this day so a firm RSVP count is essential. Please only sign up if you are certain you’ll be able to attend. If something unavoidable comes up, please try to update your RSVP no later than one week prior to the event. With few exceptions, no shows or cancelations within 1 week of the event will not be eligible for future CMG Gives Back events. I appreciate your understanding as we try to ensure the agencies have the volunteers needed to provide the essential services they provide to the vulnerable population they serve. Our Partner Agency for this event is Lutheran Social Services! A huge THANK YOU to all of YOU for volunteering at this (and any of our previous) CMG Gives Back events! Should be another good/fun/meaningful time together, Dan
General Business Networking - Columbus
General Business Networking - Columbus
**PLEASE BUY TICKETS THROUGH EVENTBRITE. RSVP THROUGH MEETUP IS NOT A TICKET PURCHASE CONFIRMATION.** Strive welcomes you to 'General Business Networking', Columbus' hottest networking event! We are set in the perfect central location in Downtown for all to join. Are you interested in business? Want to elevate your career? Meet Consultants, Analysts of all types, Bankers, Software Engineers, Entrepreneurs, and more who are active in the space or are eager to get started. **\*\*This will be a multi-vertical event\*\*** **There will be professionals with backgrounds in the arts, finance, tech, real estate, healthcare, and more. Come with an open mind, and leave with connections that wouldn't be possible otherwise!** Pack some business cards and come with an open mind! Meet your future business partners, employers, coworkers, investors, and friends. You don't want to miss this opportunity to expand your network and create a brighter future. We will have a space for our event to check-in. The event will go from 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM (feel free to come at any point in this timeframe). Name tags will be provided. Business casual dress code. Job fair attire. **Remember, it's not who you know, it's who you meet tomorrow!** We look forward to meeting you at the event! Sincerely, Strive Networking Team *Refund requests are permitted up to 24 hours after purchase, so long as we are not within 48 hours before the event start time. Refunds will be made in full and repaid to your method of payment. Note that we are unable to reimburse PayPal fees.* *Disclaimer: By attending Strive Networking events you agree to photos/videos taken during the event being used to promote future events.*
Candle Making Night at The Arcane Foundry | Design Your Own Custom Candle
Candle Making Night at The Arcane Foundry | Design Your Own Custom Candle
## Candle Making Night at The Arcane Foundry \| Design Your Own Custom Candle **SPECIAL PROMOTION**: Buy 3 and get 1 Free! Step into The Arcane Foundry and create your own custom candle from start to finish. This is a laid back, hands-on experience where **you’ll blend fragrances, choose your vessel, and pour your own candle using 100% soy wax**. Whether you’re coming solo or with friends, it’s designed to be simple, creative, and a good time. We’ll walk you through the entire process, from picking your scents to choosing between a traditional cotton wick or a crackling wood wick. You can go with one fragrance or mix your own blend to create something completely unique**. No experience needed**, just show up and we’ll handle the rest. While your candle sets, feel free to hang out, play a game, explore the shop, or just relax and talk. Drinks and snacks are available, and the atmosphere leans into the **fantasy**, **dark academia**, and **gothic horror** vibe The Arcane Foundry is known for. Learn More: [Candle Making in Columbus, Ohio at The Arcane Foundry](https://thearcanefoundry.com/candle-making/) *** ### What to Expect: * Guided candle making experience * Choose your own vessel, wax, wick, and fragrance * 100% soy wax candles * Optional drinks and snacks * Time to relax while your candle cools *** ### Important Notes: * Please arrive on time so we can start together * Candles will need time to set before taking home * This is a beginner-friendly event *** ### RSVP Required Reserve your spot on Meetup to lock in your seat. **Candle Making** (includes vessel, your choice of wick, wax, scented oil, labels and lids) 5oz Glass Jars $15 8oz Candle Tins $25 12oz Glass Candles $35 12oz Amber Jars $40 16 oz Skull or Jack o Lantern Candle Mugs $65 (Limited Edition!) **All materials included. You just bring yourself (and your drink of choice).** **Payments accepted:** * Credit Card * Venmo: @Daclaud-Lee * Cashapp: $DaclaudL
Drop-In-Person Coaching (In-Person)
Drop-In-Person Coaching (In-Person)
Have a small business? Ever wish you could just ask some questions around how to grow your business, get more customers or just know what the freak you are doing with sales? Now is your chance!! Every month we are hosting the "Ask an Expert" at the Columbus Metro Library, Main campus. I will be there to answer your Sales related questions. Drop-in for sales coaching designed to help small business owners, entrepreneurs, and sales professionals sharpen their sales approach. Whether you have questions on how to refine your pitch, are looking to close deals more quickly, or are working on building better client relationships, Smashing Your Sales Goals Coaches are here to help. Drop-in to get expert insights, actionable strategies and real-time solutions to grow your business and generate higher profits. Drop-In Sales Coaching is FREE + OPEN to the public. No appointment needed. First come, first served. EPIC Learning created. Accelerate Columbus supported.
Trails & Ales! Blendon Woods Metro Park / Forbidden Root Restaurant & Brewery
Trails & Ales! Blendon Woods Metro Park / Forbidden Root Restaurant & Brewery
**History** The history of [Blendon Woods Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/blendon-woods/) began long before its 1951 opening, rooted in a landscape of rugged ridges and deep ravines that made the land unsuitable for traditional farming. In 1945, a report proposing a metropolitan park system for Franklin County specifically highlighted these cliffs of Bedford Shale as some of the "wildest land in the vicinity". Following this recommendation, the recently formed park district purchased the first 229 acres in early 1949. Because the terrain was so uneven, developers had to cut a mile-and-a-half-long roadway through dense woods just to bring in heavy equipment. This initial preservation effort ensured that the mature second-growth hardwood forests remained largely untouched by the urban expansion spreading toward Westerville. Opening day arrived on Labor Day, September 3, 1951, marking Blendon Woods as the second park in the Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks system. The final push to open was a frantic race; the State Highway Department only finished the primary gravel access road four days before the gates opened. Early staff members, consisting of just four full-time employees, had to hand-dig pit toilets and learn construction skills on the fly to build the first picnic shelters. Despite the dusty conditions and limited facilities, the park was an immediate success, drawing massive crowds from across Central Ohio. By the end of the 1950s, annual visitation had already climbed to over 190,000 people. As the surrounding suburbs grew in the 1960s, the park faced severe overcrowding that threatened its natural habitats. In response, Franklin County voters passed the first Metro Parks levy in 1960, providing the funds necessary for a decade of steady expansion. During this era, the park nearly doubled in size, growing from 264 acres to over 570 acres by 1968. Planners also addressed a critical water shortage by collaborating with the U.S. Soil and Conservation Service to build a lake in 1964. This body of water originally served as a temporary reservoir before its role shifted toward conservation and wildlife support. The 1970s marked a transition toward the specialized wildlife and educational focus for which the park is known today. In 1971, the Walden Waterfowl Refuge was established around the 11-acre Thoreau Lake, creating a sanctuary that remains restricted to provide a quiet habitat for migratory birds. A formal nature center was also developed during this period, expanding on the guided Sunday walks that had been a park staple since the early 1950s. The park’s famous "Monarch Mansion" also became a prominent fixture, starting a long tradition of raising and releasing thousands of monarch butterflies each September. These initiatives cemented the park’s reputation as a premier destination for birders and nature enthusiasts. In more recent decades, Blendon Woods has continued to modernize while maintaining its wilderness character. The 10-acre Natural Play Area was added in 2017, encouraging kids to explore the ravines and woods off-trail. This was followed by the opening of a $1.5 million inclusive playground in April 2025, designed to accommodate children of all physical abilities. The nature center also underwent major renovations to include immersive, three-dimensional exhibits and a new butterfly house. Today, the park encompasses 653 acres, preserving a unique geologic and biological corridor amidst the bustling Westerville and Northeast Columbus area. **Map of the Park** Here is a map of [Blendon Woods](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/BLN_map_Inclusive-Playground-and-Butterfly-Trail_May-2025_1980px.png). **Summary** For this event, we will hike the Lake View, Hickory Ridge, Ripple Rock, Overlook, Brookside, and Sugarbush Trails. This sounds like a lot, but it will really be only a little over five miles. Blendon Woods has a few hills here and there, but it's not one of the more strenuous metro parks. **Where We'll Meet** We'll meet just in front of the Nature Center. This is about a mile into the park from the main entrance. You have to go past the Ranger Station and the Shadblow Reservable Area to get to it, so don't stop too early at the Ranger Station and get it confused with the Nature Center. **After the Hike** Afterward, we will head over to [Forbidden Root Restaurant & Brewery](https://forbiddenroot.com/restaurants/columbus-ohio/) at Easton for [drinks](https://forbiddenroot.com/restaurants/columbus-ohio/#dinner-menu) and [food](https://forbiddenroot.com/wp-content/uploads/Cbus-Food.pdf). We should be there by 5 if you can't make the hike and just want to join us for drinks. The brewery's actual address is [4080 Worth Ave, Columbus, OH 43219](https://www.google.com/maps/place/4080+Worth+Ave,+Columbus,+OH+43219/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x88388a86d10b6619:0x4d42b470a5cf11d3?sa=X&ved=1t:242&ictx=111); however, I recommend pointing your GPS to the [Worth Garage](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Worth+Garage/@40.0542293,-82.9137962,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x88388b4df6082825:0x17582f0eccd9dda1!8m2!3d40.0542293!4d-82.9137962!16s%2Fg%2F11rzfvvv8b?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI2MDQxNS4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D) across the street. Parking in this garage is free as long as you're not on the first floor, and it is literally right next to the brewery.
NFT AI ART Columbus
NFT AI ART Columbus
NFT's are here to stay folks! This is a group for like minded people interested in understanding, leveraging, using, creating for, profiting from, trading too i suppose, NFT's.. everything around them, complexity, fear and exploits, best practices and more. **PLUS** This group will talk AI ART tools, techniques, artists, video, audio, prototypes and more in the AI assisted production space- ART specifically, but we can get into any aspect of some of the cooler things happening in AI in general.