Fundraising
Meet other local people interested in Fundraising: share experiences, inspire and encourage each other! Join a Fundraising group.
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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
Angels & Beers - Investors only
**Are you an angel investor or an institutional investor?**
Join us for **Angels & Beers** — a relaxed, no-pitch evening dedicated to connecting current and future angel investors in the Berlin community.
This edition is organised together with Start-Up investment Accelerator, Leapfunder, and Startups. Berlin.
**RSVP on** - [https://luma.com/vg6ycz5r](https://luma.com/vg6ycz5r)
**Flock and Startups. Berlin** is the largest startup network in Berlin. Powered by the [Flock](https://joinaflock.com/) team, it brings together founders and investors for bi-weekly networking events.
**Startup Investor Accelerator**, by Mossy Ventures, helps build stronger, more investable startups while growing the next generation of angel investors within local ecosystems through hands-on learning and real investment experience. Their 3-month program brings together aspiring investors to evaluate real startups, conduct due diligence, and make a group investment, all while gaining practical insights into early-stage investing.
**Leapfunder** is a European platform that connects startups with early-stage angel investors through a simple, standardized investment structure. It allows investors to easily diversify their portfolio, support promising startups from the ground up, and benefit from improved access, transparency, and seamless cross-border investing across Europe.
This gathering is **exclusively for individuals who are actively investing in startups**. Whether you're just getting started or already have a portfolio, it's a chance to share experiences, exchange insights, and grow your network — all in an informal setting over a drink.
Not sure if you fit the profile? Reach out — or drop by and let's talk.
**Please note: this is for investors only, and you must RSVP on** [https://luma.com/vg6ycz5r](https://luma.com/vg6ycz5r)
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 backgrounds.**
* 🎧 No experience needed. Curiosity is enough.
* 📍 Berlin – \[theodorstraße 5,12099]
* 🗓 Every Wednesday 17: 30
* 📬 DM or email **[vestigium.impro@gmail.com](mailto:vestigium.impro@gmail.com)** to join
Come make sound—come be heard.
✨ Speak, Lead, and Connect with First Berlin Toastmasters! ✨ (in-person)
This is a special meeting and happens only ones a year.
**The board election.**
The Club members will elect our Club Leadership Board for 2026-2027.
\-\-\-
Ready to captivate any audience, nail your next presentation, or give feedback that people actually enjoy hearing? Then come check out **First Berlin Toastmasters**, Berlin's oldest public speaking club.
We're a warm, supportive, and international community here to learn, practice, and grow together. Our meetings are full of laughter, and every voice adds something special. The stage is a safe space, so come by, listen, and see how much fun communication can be.
Please, be our guest! The most important people in the room aren't the speakers, they're the audience. Your presence, energy, and reactions are what bring the evening to life.
**When**
🗓️ Every **1st & 3rd Wednesday** of the month
🕒 Doors open at **6:30 PM** \- Event starts at **6:45 PM** sharp
**Where**
St. Lukas-Kirche (near Anhalter Bahnhof)
Bernburger Straße 4-5
10963 Berlin
📍 [https://goo.gl/maps/AhDfDmVndqbC9A1C9](https://goo.gl/maps/AhDfDmVndqbC9A1C9)
You’ll find us in the **Gemeindesaal** on the first floor of the building to the right of the church.
We look forward to welcoming you!
Best wishes,
John aka Yevgen Schweden - VP Public Relations
Important note: We take pictures and clips during our meetings for promotional use only. By attending our meetings, you agree to that by default. If you don´t want to be on any picture, please let the VP PR or another representative from the board know (for example the president.)
Long Pose! Life Drawing & Portrait Painting @PAKD
**In Association With the Berlin Portrait Academy and PAKD Gallery / PAKD Art Lab**
* **www.berlinportraitacademy.com**
* **www.pakd-gallery.com/artlab**
* **Cost: 15 Euros**
A regular opportunity to study the nude or portrait from life for 3 hours, every single week!
We have one long pose - you can choose whether to draw several studies from different angles around the room, or take your time to do a single sustained drawing or painting in full detail.
The pose is held for 20 minute intervals with five minute breaks in-between so the model to rest and stretch, and so artists can move between seats if they choose.
We provide some materials such as paper, pencils & pastels for free. Canvases, brushes and acrylic paint can be purchased at the event.
We hope to see you there very soon!
Afterwork Hispanic Startups x Nova
## Hispanic Startups Berlin is back — and we’re joining forces with Nova
After a long pause, **Hispanic Startups Berlin is back** with a new afterwork meetup — and this time we’re doing it together with **Nova**, the global community for high-performing professionals.
For this May edition, we’ll meet at **BrewDog Mitte** for a relaxed evening of drinks, conversations, and new connections with people from the Hispanic startup, tech, business, and innovation ecosystem in Berlin.
Whether you’re a founder, marketer, operator, product person, investor, freelancer, student, or simply curious about the startup scene, this is a great opportunity to reconnect with the community and meet new people in an informal setting.
We’ll keep it simple: good drinks, good conversations, and a room full of interesting people.
**Date:** 20/05
**Location:** BrewDog Mitte
**Format:** Informal afterwork drinks
**In collaboration with:** Nova
Come join us, bring a friend, and help us bring Hispanic Startups Berlin back to life.
4 WEEKS CLASS ON DRAWING with focus on SHADING pencils techniques
4 WEEKS CLASS ON
DRAWING with focus on
SHADING *pencils techniques*
*Wed.nesdays 5 to 7 pm*
*May 20th to June 17th*
*( no class on May 27th )*
*100€ ALL INCLUDED*
[BOOK IT HERE!](https://berlinschoolofdrawing.weebly.com/booking---contact--venue.html)
How to reach a great level of shading and volume through an academic approach with pencils
**\- drawing technique**
**\- volume\, shapes and proportions**
**\- etching with academic approach**
**\- work on white paper and on toned paper**
Open to all levels!
🚀 Learn Public Speaking — Every Wednesday - The Center, Potsdamer Platz
An inspiring, high-energy meeting of public speaking, connection, and personal growth in the heart of Berlin.
**Mercury Toastmasters Berlin** invites you to our weekly meeting at our new home at **Das Center, Potsdamer Platz**, in the stunning **Historic Imperial Breakfast Hall**. *Experience the **power of prepared speeches** loaded with bold ideas, participate in our **dynamic Impromptu Session**, and **gain valuable insights** during our feedback segment.*
*Leave with practical tools, fresh ideas, and renewed inspiration.*
*Whether you want to speak up at work, boost your presence, or just meet inspiring people, you’ll feel at home at Mercury Toastmasters Berlin.*
***
**[What to Expect:](https://mercurytoastmasters.de/find-toastmasters-meetings-in-berlin/)**
✨ A supportive space to speak, grow, and connect
🎤 Engaging prepared speeches
⚡ Fun, fast-paced impromptu speaking challenges
💬 Feedback session you can actually use
🌍 A friendly, international crowd (around 25–30 people)
**Schedule** (times may vary)
⏰ 19:15 - Doors open & networking
🎙️ 19:30 - Prepared Speeches
🏓 20:35 - Impromptu Session (Guest welcome to join)
↩️ 21:00 - Constructive feedback
💬 21:30 - Food, drinks & relaxed socializing
**No experience needed.**
***Come curious. Leave energized.***
***
**🤙 [Hear it from our members:](https://maps.app.goo.gl/eRtvR9DRNqU9WZQn7)**
*“You can sharpen your public speaking skills and gain tons of confidence, while having fun and making new friends. Mercury is well-structured, fun, and affordable.”*
— *Therese Pitt*
*“Mercury gave me a safe place to speak, create, and grow. I love the multicultural vibe and supportive community. It’s the best place to learn and have fun.”*
— *Krisztina Linka*
***
**[Did You Know?](https://mercurytoastmasters.de/about-mercury-toastmasters-berlin/)**
Toastmasters is where people go to get better at speaking—and grow into confident communicators and leaders.
Today [Toastmasters ](https://mercurytoastmasters.de/about-mercury-toastmasters-berlin/)has 350,000+ members across 16,000 clubs in 143 countries. And [Mercury](https://mercurytoastmasters.de/find-toastmasters-meetings-in-berlin/) is one of the best places to experience it.
So bring your curiosity, your energy—and just be yourself.
Whether you’re just starting or ready to level up, there’s a place for you here.
***
**[Wondering what you get as a member?](https://mercurytoastmasters.de/membership-mercury-toastmasters-berlin/)**
Think expert feedback, real-world speaking practice, and a supportive crew that’s got your back.
[See you Wednesday night! 🎉](https://mercurytoastmasters.de/find-toastmasters-meetings-in-berlin/)
Fundraising Events This Week
Discover what is happening in the next few days
Don't eat alone lunch #90 (in Fhain)
🌟 Join us for **"Don't Eat Alone"** – an event designed to transform your lunch break into a social feast! **Tired of solitary meals in front of the computer?** **Thriving to meet some new people and curious what it may bring to your life?**
Just come, check and enjoy a delicious meal with friendly faces. Connect with like-minded individuals, engage in conversations, and make your lunchtime a memorable social experience.
Mark your calendar, bring your appetite, and let's build connections, one meal at a time! 🍽️🤝✨
PAYMENTS: the meetup is free, but everyone pays for their meals. Here you can pay by card easily.
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!
Business Netzwerken im Prenzlauer Berg am 21.05. @ 9:10 Uhr
**Veranstaltungsort:**
Café Amelie
Pappelallee 11
10437 Berlin
Nächste **U-Bahn-Station**: U2 Eberswalder Straße (4 Gehminuten)
**Start:** 09:10 Uhr
**Einlass:** ab 09:00 Uhr
Liebe Berliner Unternehmer,
wir freuen uns, dich auch im Mai wieder im Café Amelie im Prenzlauer Berg begrüßen zu dürfen.
Wie auf dem Bild bereits ersichtlich "streckt" sich das Café, was uns eine besonders geeignete Basis für intensiven Austausch zwischen den Teilnehmern ermöglicht. Darüber hinaus gibt es hervorragenden Kaffee sowie Gebäck- und Kuchen-Spezialitäten, vielleicht sogar in einem besonderen Combo-Deal für BNB-Teilnehmer. ;-)
Vor Ort gibt es wie gewohnt frische Geschäftskontakte, neue Denkansätze und interessante Kooperationsmöglichkeiten. Wir stoßen dies durch eine moderierte Kontaktrunde an, in der sich jeder Teilnehmer kurz vorstellen (ca. 1 Minute) und anschließend intensiven Austausch mit den anderen Teilnehmern betreiben kann. Bringt bitte nach Möglichkeiten **Visitenkarten** mit, da diese uns das Netzwerken erleichtern.
Zu Beginn der Veranstaltung gibt es üblicherweise einen Impulsvortrag. Solltest du Interesse haben, einen Impulsvortrag zu halten, so schreib uns sehr gerne. Weitere Informationen gibt es auch hier: [Impulsvorträge bei BNB](https://netzwerken.berlin/impulsvortraege/)
\-\-\-
Alle Gründer/StartUps, Freiberufler und Unternehmer/Unternehmensvertreter sind willkommen beim Business MeetUp im Café Amelie im Prenzlauer Berg. Die Teilnahme ist generell kostenlos und NICHT an eine Mitgliedschaft gebunden.
Den leckeren Kaffee, Croissants, Kuchen oder was auch immer dich zum Kauf animiert hat, bezahle bitte im Café ;-)
Bitte beachten: Unternehmer mit Multi Level Marketing-Geschäftsmodellen schließen wir von unseren Veranstaltungen komplett aus. Weiterhin stehen wir auch allen Arten des Provisionsgeschäfts (Finanz-Optimierer, Immobilienmakler, Versicherungsvertreteter, etc.) extrem kritisch gegenüber und gestatten diesen keine Teilnahme an unseren Events. Solltet ihr der Meinung sein, ihr fallt nicht in diese Kategorie, obwohl ihr in einer der genannten Branchen arbeitet, so sprecht uns bitte im Vorfeld an.
Für alle anderen Fragen zum Event stehen wir euch selbstverständlich ebenfalls zur Verfügung. Wir freuen uns darauf, auch dich persönlich kennenzulernen und dir bei der Entwicklung deines Geschäfts zu helfen!
P.S.: Es werden mitunter Bilder auf den Events gemacht. Falls du ein riesiges Problem damit hast, auf diesen Bildern zu sehen zu sein, gib uns vor Ort bitte Bescheid.
Join Biggest Community | Investors Founders | Berlin | Online
Please reserve your spot by registering on the below link : https://www.eventbrite.com/e/join-biggest-community-investors-founders-berlin-online-tickets-1988380688164?aff=meetup QUESTIONS ? Pls Reach out to; Rose - +971528033410 ( WhatsApp Only)
OpenSpace Networthing
Meetup -> Teamup -> Startup
After or FirstFriday Meetup we connect Entrepreneurs in our OpenSpace format.
How it works:
In this high-energy "unconference" format, there are no pre-set speakers. Instead we introduce ourselfs and share our challenges to find together solutions or present our pitchdecks to get valuable feedback.
Join us in our next inspiring session.
Entrance is free. Please bring some snacks instead.
***
🧠 Decision-Making Under Pressure (Part 2)
🧠 **Decision-Making Under Pressure (Part 2)**
The wait is over.
After the great response to our first session, we’re bringing it back — with new scenarios, new challenges, and even more real-time decision-making.
This is not a typical event.
It’s an **interactive business simulation**, where you step into the role of a founder and face real-world startup situations under pressure.
You’ll work in small teams, analyze scenarios, make decisions within limited time, and present your approach — just like in real life.
***
# 💡 What to Expect
🔹 Work in teams
🔹 Solve realistic startup scenarios
🔹 Make decisions under time pressure
🔹 Present your strategy
🔹 Receive feedback and different perspectives
Each round becomes more challenging, pushing you to think faster, communicate clearly, and act with confidence.
***
# 🎯 Why Join
Because building a startup is a series of decisions —
and the ability to make them under pressure is what makes the difference.
Whether you’re a founder, aspiring entrepreneur, or simply curious, this session will challenge you to think critically and act decisively.
***
# Event Details
📅 **May 24, 2026**
⏰ **13:00 – 15:30**
📍 **The Social Hub**
See you there!
Check out our websites:
Company-[Datenstrom-3ag.com](https://datenstrom-3ag.com/?utm_source=luma)
Application-[Growfirma.com](https://growfirma.com/?utm_source=luma)
Founders Running Club :: Berlin
**Founders Running Club** (FRC) brings founders, investors, tech, creative people and startup enthusiasts together for weekly easy runs and networking.
Every Saturday morning we gather together and run through Tiergarten.
Join us in one of these 3 routes:
\* **5K** – for new & beginner runners
\* **7K** – for regular runners
\* **11K** – for more experienced runners
**OBS**: We are usually around 30 people, between regulars and newcomers (from here and from Luma), so don't be scared if there are not a lot of people confirmed on the event here.
The pace is chill and conversational, around **6:30**.
On the 7k and 11k some people like to push a bit more, but no one gets left behind.
We finish with a nice coffee and amazing conversations.
The vibe is always great.
Pets, friends, family, are welcome.
More about **FRC**:
🗓️ Launched in San Francisco, July 16, 2022
🌍 Now in 50+ cities
📅 Running + Networking events + Community
**Join the community** [http://foundersrc.com/chats](http://foundersrc.com/chats?utm_source=luma)
Berlin Instagram [http://instagram.com/frcberlin](http://instagram.com/frcberlin?utm_source=luma)
**Global FRC**:
Instagram [http://instagram.com/foundersrc/](http://instagram.com/foundersrc/?utm_source=luma)
LinkedIn [http://linkedin.com/company/foundersrc/](http://linkedin.com/company/foundersrc/?utm_source=luma)
Strava [http://strava.com/clubs/foundersRC](http://strava.com/clubs/foundersRC?utm_source=luma)
Website [http://foundersrc.com/](http://foundersrc.com/?utm_source=luma)
Fundraising Events Near You
Connect with your local Fundraising community
Introduction to Grant Writing for Non-Profits
Join us for an introduction to writing grant proposals for your nonprofit organization, led by consultant Tiffany Nobles.
We'll discuss the most common funder requirements and how to successfully meet them. We'll also share common pitfalls to avoid.
This event is free and open to the public.
Must See Thursday: I LOVE BOOSTERS at the Drexel + GRAETER'S!
Join us as we get together to see the top-reviewed comedy-drama, I LOVE BOOSTERS! The film comes from writer/director Boots Riley and follows a group of shoplifters who take aim at a cutthroat fashion maven. Here are details, trailers and our plan for this event:
DESCRIPTION: The film follows a group of shoplifters who take aim at a cutthroat fashion maven. It is written/directed by Boots Riley (Sorry to Bother You) and stars Keke Palmer, Naomi Ackie, Taylour Paige, Poppy Liu, Eiza González, LaKeith Stanfield, Will Poulter, Don Cheadle, and Demi Moore.
BUZZ AND ACCLAIM: I Love Boosters was the opening film at this year’s SXSW Festival and premiered to rave reviews! It is currently earning a tremendous 97% positive rating on Rotten Tomatoes where critics call it, “an unexpected celebration of friendship, community, and solidarity.” Others call the film “an exercise in radical empathy,” a “masterful” and “optimistic” film designed to “provoke discussion” while making the audience laugh.
TRAILER: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r4lPRISgr9c](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r4lPRISgr9c)
SUMMER OF ICE CREAM: GRAETER’S! Established way back in 1870 in Cincinnati, this historic, family-owned brand is famous for their delicious small batch ice cream and any chocolate chunk flavors! They are currently the only commercial ice cream maker using the French Pot method that they’ve been using since they first opened! Plus, those chocolate chunks, oh my goodness! Vegan options are available.
PLAN: We’ll plan for a 7pm-ish showing and will meet in the lobby area about 20 minutes before the show. Advance ticket purchase not required for this theater but Showtime and complete details will be confirmed/announced as the date gets closer.
Look forward to seeing you there, Dan
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
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.*
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.
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.
Rays Of Light Spiritualist Church Service
Rev. Steven Clevenger is an ordained spiritualist minister with over 40 years experience as a Spiritual Healer, Clairvoyant and Spiritual Teacher, educated and trained at the White Lily Chapel.
Rev. Siobhan Wolf Shaffer is an ordained spiritualist minister and certified medium and healer with over 20 years experience. She began her development in 1988 in Pennsylvania and continued when she moved to Ohio in 1998 where she studied at Rays of Lights Church with Rev. Steven Clevenger.
Our full worship services consist of an inspirational lecture, healing meditation, and messages from the spirit world that serve to demonstrate evidence of eternal life.
Please visit our Official Church Website (http://raysoflightchurch.com) for more information.




















