Multiracial Adoption

Come learn how money really works. We’ll cover how to grow it, protect it, get out of debt, and use smart retirement and infinite banking strategies to build long-term security.

Calling all Crew Members! 🚢 BBaddies On A Track! We will be meeting at 6am to hit the track. We will do a warm up and then a few drills and sprints on the track! We will also have fun and be in community!

Looking to connect with other young adults with food allergy? Join **Adulting with Allergies**, FARE’s social club for young adults 21 and up. **[Register Here](https://www.foodallergy.org/resources/adulting-allergies-young-adult-food-allergy-social-club)!** The goal of Adulting with Allergies is to create a space where young adults can connect, share experiences, and build community. Members can participate in quarterly virtual hangouts, as well as annual in-person events hosted in cities across the U.S. Our first **VIRTUAL** session will take place on **May 26 at 7 PM EST** and will focus on navigating food allergies in the workplace. Please note that there is no limit to number of attendees. If you're interested in registering, click the link above!

Cool down with an icy drink at Electric Cool-Aid with the DC Portuguese Conversation Group. IF YOU ARE STILL LEARNING THAT IS FINE, ALL LEVELS WELCOME. Come practice Portuguese over a slushy cocktail (or a can of beer or glass of water if you prefer). Build new connections and broaden your cultural/lusophone horizons with us! Whether you are a native Portuguese speaker, an English-speaking expat looking to practice Portuguese, or simply interested in making international friends, this event is perfect for you. Come ready to engage in stimulating conversations, make new connections. Ate ja, tchau!

Have you been thinking about trying self-defense training, but do not want a loud, aggressive, or overly competitive environment? This free intro class is a simple way to get started. Maryland Systema offers practical self-defense training for adults in Rockville with a focus on movement, awareness, breathing, posture, and calm under pressure. This class is designed for beginners and first-timers who want real-world self-defense training in a welcoming setting. You do not need experience. You do not need to be in top shape. You do not need a martial arts background. You just need to show up ready to learn. This is not a sport-based class built around winning points, memorizing routines, or trying to look impressive. It is a more practical approach to adult self-defense training that helps you stay balanced, aware, and functional when things feel uncertain. If you have been searching for self-defense classes in Rockville, beginner self-defense near you, or practical self-defense training for adults, this class is a good place to start. **What you will work on** * Breathing and staying calm under pressure * Movement that improves balance and mobility * Awareness and posture * Simple partner drills * Practical self-defense training for beginners **Who this class is for** * Adults new to self-defense training * Beginners looking for a low-pressure class * People who want practical self-defense instead of sport martial arts * Adults in Takoma Park, Silver Spring, Rockville, and nearby areas looking for realistic self-defense classes **What to wear** Please wear comfortable workout clothes. No uniform is required. **Why start with this class** This free intro class gives you a chance to experience the training, meet the group, and see whether Maryland Systema is the right fit for you before joining regular weekly classes. **RSVP** Reserve your spot and come try a beginner-friendly self-defense class in Rockville.

**Looking for Players New And Old:** Hi y'all, I'm Andrew. I'm looking to jumpstart an Old-School Renaissance (OSR) TTRPG group in the Greenbelt/College Park area. No experience is necessary. Our first session will be a level 1 one-shot designed by me. In it, players investigate a stone tower on behalf of an army looking to occupy the surrounding lands. For those with limited experience with the OSR or Shadowdark, take a look bellow. I'm excited to see you guys there and get this thing rolling! **Shadowdark, Our Old-School Style Rule System:** Shadowdark is a system designed to bring together the principles of early D&D gameplay and the familiar and intuitive nature of modern systems. Those of you familiar with D&D and Pathfinder will find the six attribute/D20 roll-over system familiar, however, the way the game is played is fundamentally different in a few ways: * **Character Survival Not Guaranteed:** In some games, the DM works to ensure characters don't die easily or without a good reason. In Shadowdark, danger lurks in every corner and characters can die at any time depending on how they react to their environment. If they want their characters to survive, players must play carefully, avoiding traps and sneaking past enemies too powerful for them. The more hardcore style of gameplay encourages players to consider their risk management strategy and to develop creative solutions to avoid a perilous fate. * **Player Smarts Over Dice Rolls:** Yes, you'll still roll to see if you can push the door down or cast a spell, but you won't be rolling as many perception checks to search for traps or distract guards as in other games. Players are encouraged to play smart and communicate what they are doing in detail. "I run my hands along the face of the wall, checking to see if there are any strange indents or hidden buttons" is a lot more interesting than "I check for hidden doors, I rolled a 15" * **Rules-Light:** This game is simpler than D&D and Pathfinder in terms of how many rules there are. This opens things up for more creativity in our actions while still giving us a bounded ruleset to keep things fair and interesting.

Come learn how money really works. We’ll cover how to grow it, protect it, get out of debt, and use smart retirement and infinite banking strategies to build long-term security.

[Reserve Your Seat Now](https://DiasporaRoundtableDC.eventbrite.com/?aff=MU) A Curated Diaspora Dialogue in a Refined African Dining Setting In partnership with Afropolitan Cities & Breathing Art Studio, Ahaspora brings you the 2nd edition of the Diaspora Roundtable 2026 — Africa Day Edition — an intimate, high-level evening of dialogue, connection, inspiration, and cultural experience. 📍 The Continent DC 📅 Thursday, May 28, 2026 🕔 5:00 PM (EST) Taking place during Africa Day Week, this special edition brings together leading voices across the African Diaspora for a powerful exchange. This Diaspora talk series is designed to spotlight the global impact of Africa’s Diaspora, while exploring how diaspora communities are shaping narratives, driving innovation, and unlocking real pathways for engagement, investment, and long-term collaboration across the continent. Through curated dialogue and storytelling, the roundtable creates space for honest perspectives, shared experiences, and forward-thinking ideas — connecting those who are building, investing, and influencing across borders. This gathering is part of the Ahaspora in the USA series — an ongoing initiative focused on strengthening diaspora engagement, building meaningful bridges between Africa and the world, and positioning Africa as a central player in the global future. Set within one of Washington, DC’s premier African fine dining destinations, the experience blends thoughtful conversation with a refined culinary atmosphere — creating an intimate environment that is as elevated as it is engaging. What to Expect: • A dynamic, high-level roundtable conversation with leading diaspora voices • A refined dining experience in a culturally immersive setting • Thought-provoking insights on influence, investment, and Africa–Diaspora collaboration • Meaningful networking with leading voices, founders, professionals, creatives, and cultural leaders Because the future of Africa’s global story will not be written in isolation — it will be shaped through connection, collaboration, and action across the Diaspora.

Greetings, Let's meet again for another end of the month Melanated Investors Book Club meeting. Last year, several individuals participated in the virtual 12 month review of **Rashad Bilal and Troy Millings'**--financial literacy experts, master investors, and founders of the Earn Your Leisure PodCast debut book **'You Deserve to Be Rich'** (released January 14th, 2025; see link below). Prior to that, Jason and Cassandra Lockhart facilitated monthly virtual discussions pre and post pandemic (2021/2022 to 2024) before planning their wedding in 2025. For those interested in **in-person book discussions** **(informal)** to include various topics related to leadership, advocacy, entrepreneurship, economic empowerment, financial literacy, and community service--**feel free to RSVP.** All are welcome to attend (no need bring a book or have read any featured text). As usual, feel free to discuss other topics to include books/content you are currently reading that extend beyond entrepreneurship. If you, or anyone you know, would like to partner, collaborate, or lead a discussion feel free to reach out via meet-up message or phone at anytime. Also, if there are any questions regarding this meet-up do not hesitate to reach out at any time. Updates may also be added to the event chat/comment section at anytime, thank you. **Book Link:** [https://www.amazon.com/s?k=you+deserve+to+be+rich&ref=nav_bb_sb](https://www.amazon.com/s?k=you+deserve+to+be+rich&ref=nav_bb_sb) \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- Alicia (202) 627-0361 Sunday May 17th, 2026 7:00pm (update)

Greetings, The Black Wealth Summit returned to DC for the fifth year from Friday May 1st 2026 to Saturday May 2nd, 2026 8:00pm to join community leaders, entrepreneurs, investors, creators, and advocates for an experience designed to redefine economic empowerment, ownership, and legacy within the Black community. What the Summit Included: • High-level conversations on investing, entrepreneurship, and advocacy • Real strategies for building scalable income + ownership • Curated networking with high-value action-oriented individuals • Discussions on community economics, partnerships, collaboration, and collective expansion • A space focused on execution and inspiration Feel free to RSVP if you were either a ticket holder (VIP mixer held Friday May 1, 2026 from 6:00pm to 9:00pm; Saturday May 2, 2026 programming from 8:00am to 7:00pm-- closing reception at 5:30pm) would like information on post Black Wealth Summit debriefing at next last Saturday of the month Melanated Investors Book Club Dinner/Advocacy Dinner Saturday May 30th, 2026 at 6:00pm to 10:00pm, thank you. BWS Link: [https://blackwealthsummit.com](https://blackwealthsummit.com) Alicia (202) 627-0361 Saturday May 2nd, 2026 2:00pm.

Welcome, readers! Our May read is **_Kindred_ by Octavia E. Butler.** The story follows Dana, a Black woman living in 1976 California, who is suddenly pulled back to a Maryland plantation before the Civil War. She learns her survival is tied to a white slaveholder’s son. Forced to move between centuries, she must endure the brutal realities of slavery while fighting to hold on to her identity. Tense, intimate, and unforgettable, Kindred explores how the past refuses to stay buried. Looking forward to discussing with everyone! We will meet at Zaftig Brewing Co in their event room in the back. We are welcome to bring in our own food, but **drinks must be purchased at the bar.** Happy reading! 📖

Join us as we discuss our June pick: Metal Slinger by Rachel Schneider! Book description: Even though she's not one of them, Brynn has spent her life among the Alaha, training to be a guard and waiting for the chance to attend the annual market hosted by the Kenta–the very same people who exiled her adopted community to a life at sea. Going to the market is a rite of passage eagerly anticipated by all young guards, but Brynn does not anticipate breaking a century-long peace treaty while there. Nor does she plan for the intense encounter with an enemy soldier that now threatens to unwind the fragile coexistence between their people–and everything Brynn once believed about herself to be true. Brynn's loyalty to the Alaha is tested when the truth of her identity is brought to light by this soldier who's taken an oath to bring her back to where she belongs. Narrowly escaping death on the violent high seas, Brynn's connection to the Alaha is further tested when she learns about the world of magic she's been denied. She was once certain of her fate and where she belonged, but the dark, knowing eyes of this stranger have her questioning everything, including her heart. Packed with knife fights and seafaring adventure, METAL SLINGER is the smash-hit start to the romantic fantasy duology, the Fire & Metal series

At Unity of Columbus, our Youth and Family Ministry nurtures the spiritual growth of children and families through love, joy, and practical spiritual teachings. Each Sunday, children explore timeless spiritual principles through stories, creative activities, music, and group sharing in a safe and welcoming environment. Our program encourages children to discover their own inner light, express kindness, and develop a personal connection with God. Together, we celebrate diversity, cultivate understanding, and inspire each child to live with purpose and compassion. Parents and families are invited to join in this uplifting journey of learning, laughter, and spiritual connection.

# Stop Scrolling. Start Living. Sometimes the best way to meet new people is simple **get out of the house and do something in real life.** With weather still unpredictable, we’re keeping this one simple **we’ll be walking indoor or outdoor at Polaris.** Most people who attend often come alone. **This is a casual social walk designed to meet new people.** No awkward networking. No pressure. Just walking, talking, and good company. Whether you're new to the group or a regular, this is a great way to **get some steps in, meet new people, and do something different on a Tuesday evening.** Location **Polaris Fashion Place** **Meeting Spot:** Outside or just inside **"Dicks Main entrance"** from parking lot Look for the **Meetup sign and green or gold wristbands.** The Plan **Meetup / Check-in** Arrive, say hello, meet a few people, and get checked in. *The first 15 minutes are usually the best time to meet people before we start walking.* **Walk Starts** We’ll begin a **casual indoor or outdoor social walk around Polaris Mall.** by the end of the hour we should be near 3 miles approx. 6k steps **Walk Ends** Anyone who wants to keep the fun going can join us for Topgolf. **Optional Activity** After We’ll head over to **Topgolf** No golf experience needed — **beginners welcome.** **Let’s** **see your best Happy Gilmore swing!!!** To reduce no-shows and keep events sustainable: **$2 — Walk RSVP** **$15 — Optional Topgolf add-on** or **$17 TOTAL** Topgolf is **limited to the first 6 paid players per bay.** If the first bay fills, I’ll open another lane if enough people want to join. **To keep group sizes manageable and reduce no-shows, this event is limited to paid attendees. RSVP alone does not reserve a spot.** Use payment link in comments to confirm your reservation. Even if only 1 person signs up and confirms their rsvp the event will happen! **Important** RSVP alone **does not guarantee a spot.** Paid attendees receive: • Event wristband • Guaranteed Topgolf spot (if purchased) • Inclusion in group activities Why These Events Exist Wise Unlimited events exist to help people: • meet new friends • get off their phones • **do more things in real life** Too many people **want to go do things** but **don’t want to go alone.** This solves that. **Stop scrolling. Start doing stuff.**

[Columbus library link to book](https://cml.bibliocommons.com/v2/record/S105C3351321) Location: The Goat River South 219 S High St, Columbus, OH 43215 Street parking is free on Sundays [Menu](https://static1.squarespace.com/static/686d3ed16745133042482c5f/t/68ff654dbb03b96875430bde/1761568077220/all_brunch-20250311.pdf) Book summary: On a hot day in Bethlehem, a twelve-year-old Palestinian-American girl is yelled at by a group of men outside the Church of the Nativity. She has exposed her legs in a biblical city, an act they deem forbidden, and their judgement will echo on through her adolescence. When our narrator finally admits to her mother that she is queer, her mother's response only intensifies a sense of shame: 'You exist too much,' she tells her daughter. Told in vignettes that flash between the U.S. and the Middle East--from New York to Jordan, Lebanon, and Palestine--Zaina Arafat's debut novel traces her protagonist's progress from blushing teen to sought-after DJ and aspiring writer.

Some trained COUNT volunteers work together once a month at RMH (http://www.rmhc-centralohio.org/volunteer.php) as Housewarmers (usually on the 1st Sunday from 1 – 5 PM). Some schedule other shifts at their convenience. You may try this out with less fuss by following a "Fast track" or go through the normal process. Fast track • Arrange a time to shadow a COUNT volunteer. Call Dave Nohle at 614-268-9558 (cell). • Show up and try it out. • Complete application, etc. later. Normal process • Complete an online application (http://rmhc-centralohio.org/volunteer/). • Attend orientation in advance. • At orientation you will complete forms agreeing to keep family/patient info private and allowing a background check and tour the facility. • Complete one training shift. Daily shifts are: morning 9 AM - 1 PM, afternoon 1 - 5 PM and evening 5 - 9 PM. • Schedule shifts online using the on the RMH scheduling system (http://www.volgistics.com/ex/portal.dll/?FROM=32895). The Ronald McDonald House (RMH) provides housing and meals for families with sick children. The Columbus RMH is the largest in the world with 137 rooms. COUNT has been volunteering there since May 2014. Housewarmers work with RMH guests to provide a home-like environment - greet, assist with family needs, answer phones, give tours, assist with checkin/checkout, prepare guest rooms after checkout, clean facility, laundry, restock supplies and staff the front desk. RMH Housewarmers volunteer at least one four-hour shift a month. All Housewarmers must complete an application and agree to a background check before they can be full fledged volunteers.