Neighborhood Unity

All London-based AARO members and prospective members are invited to a Meetup on Tuesday 7 April from 18:00-20:00! Come and meet fellow AARO members, talk about the issues facing Americans living abroad, and learn more about what AARO is doing to help! Hosted by AARO Board member Ann Madden, who is also the liaison for the AARO Health Plan. Drinks and snacks available for purchase at the bar. Meet in the rear section of the pub, to the left of the bar as you enter.

18:00 - 18:30: Grab a drink and introductions 18:30 - 19:30: Shut Up and Write (timer starts and ends) 19:30 - 20:00: Chat and reflect Come along for a fun and productive hour of solid writing without any pressure to share what you are doing. If you're writing a screen play, script, novel, poem, etc, or just journaling or catching up with some work... you are welcome. See you there!!! ✍ Bring headphones as sometimes it can be a little loud due to the central location. 🎶 Contact Joe & Héléna for details: joewhitehead03@gmail.com helenabloch2@gmail.com

I'm unclear whether this recurring event still happens. I suggest you check before travelling. https://www.vandomecycles.co.uk/ A cycling club for people of ALL abilities, hosted by Vandome Cycles. Contact them for details of their events and activities. info@vandomecycles.co.uk .

**PLEASE VISIT THE WEBSITE TO CONFIRM SESSION DETAILS AND LET US KNOW YOU PLAN TO ATTEND. THIS IS MANDATORY.** **Want to do something useful with your exercise? GoodGym is no ordinary gym. We're a group of people who get fit by doing good - helping out local charities and community groups with physical jobs like shifting compost and planting trees.** **📍 We meet at** **Papa's Park, 10 - 17 Pulross Road, London, SW9 8AF** **at 6:45pm.** **🏃‍♂️ At 7:00pm we'll run, walk or cycle to do a 30-40 minute task.** **🏃‍♂️ Then we'll head back to where we started by 8:45pm, do some stretches and maybe grab a beverage?** It's FREE. It's fun. It's fulfilling. And we're a very friendly bunch. 🍇 — **BOOK ONTO THE SESSION** **To come to the session click here:** https://www.goodgym.org/v3/sessions **You will need to confirm your attendance on the GoodGym website** (this includes creating an account with us if you haven’t already - it only takes a few mins). The link above takes you to the session listings in your area - if this session doesn’t fit your schedule, you may find something that does so check it out. p.s. GoodGym is a charity and you will be asked whether you’d like to donate when first creating an account. The choice is yours and does not affect your ability to attend a session. — **FAQ** Not sure you'll keep up? GoodGym is for everyone (18+). Whether you've never run before, or are chasing a marathon PB, you are 100% welcome. We always have a back-marker so no one gets left behind. 70% of GoodGym members start as non-runners so if you're new to this kind of thing you will be supported by people who are all on the same journey. 👍 What do I need to wear? Most of us wear gym/running gear. Make sure you're prepared for the weather. Don't feel like you're fit enough? Our tasks are simple and fun. There are easy jobs as well as more challenging things for those who want a workout! The choice is always yours. Do I need to bring anything? Gardening gloves are really useful for a lot of GoodGym tasks. And a head torch too if it’s likely to get dark. Please bring some if you can but there’s no requirement 🧤💡🧤 What is GoodGym? We're a (really lovely) group of people who use our energy to make a difference in our local community (and in communities across the UK!). We often meet on a weeknight, at least once a week, for a session to do good and get fit. We'd love you to come and join us. Any questions, just pop a comment below or send me a message. Find out everything you need to know at goodgym.org

Many say that "dating your own race" or "racial/ethnic preference" are natural choices - but history shows how many countries tried to *stop* different races from mixing: from racial purity laws in the US and Nazi Germany, to Saudi Arabia's current ban on marrying foreigners, apartheid in South Africa, segregation and eugenics, and bans on marrying someone from a different religion. While mixing was common in ancient empires and trade routes, race is now a common "filter" in apps and dating advice. Is this really just a matter of personal taste, or is there an element of prejudice and politics? We'll discuss: 1\. Is racial preference really natural \- and why have countries tried to prohibit different races\, ethnicities and religions mixing? 2\. Do modern dating ideas on race/ethnicity/culture carry political goals\, e\.g\. racial purity\, cultural conformism\, etc? 3\. How to tell whether it's preference\, prejudice or politics\, in our daily lives? *Join us for a relaxed group conversation where we explore the real life, the grey areas, and how our different cultures and backgrounds shape our views about key topics.* *Expect real talk, no judgment, and a chance to learn how others see it.* **\*Come for the discussion, stay for the friendships. Our weekly discussion series brings together thoughtful people for honest conversations on relationships, life, and society - with warm social vibes before and after.\*** **WHAT TO EXPECT:** * Good vibes only: we chat big topics in a chill, respectful way. No arguing - just open-minded exchange. * We warm up with casual socializing (come solo or with friends!) * The topic starts around 7:45/8pm, wraps around 9:30. * 🍕 There's pizza, drinks, milkshakes and snacks available at the bar (incl plant-based options) * And most people stay until late for drinks and mingling! **DISCUSSION FORMAT:** **\- Our group conversations are open and flexible\! There is a very soft guided flow to ensure we focus on the key questions\, and to ensure that everyone gets a balanced opportunity to speak\.** \- We rotate groups intentionally during the discussion so everyone gets to meet a wider mix of people and perspectives\. \- After the structured part\, you’re free to mix and mingle with anyone\. **Here's a typical discussion structure, but we may adjust this depending on the turnout:** \- Introductions and initial thoughts *(\~5 mins).* \- Group breakouts per question *(\~20 mins x 3).* \- Final round of opinions *(\~10 mins)*. \- Mix and mingle\, make new friends\, get drinks etc *(\~until late)* **Rules & etiquette:** 1\. Debate the topic\, not the participants \- no personal attacks please\. 2\. No phones\, no interrupting\, no bystanding\. 3\. Always follow the moderator/host instructions and guidelines\. **WHAT IS WORLD CITIZENS?** We're one of London's longest-running and largest communities. Since 2012 we run socials, cultural activities and stimulating discussions to foster meaningful exchange and learning among London's global professionals. They are inspired by MUN (Model United Nations) and salon discussions and offer a more relaxed and social evening version. **LOCATION DETAILS** What: Discussion session followed by social/networking When: Tuesday, 7:30pm until late. Where: Curzon Aldgate (bar area), 2 Canter Way, E1 8PS Closest stations: Aldgate East, Aldgate, Tower Hill/Gateway Cost: Pay for your own meals or drinks Hosts: We have a rotating team and the actual host of each event varies. Our regular members can also help you out with basic matters. *NOTE: like most guests, our volunteer hosts join after work and may arrive after the start time. If you are punctual or earlier than our hosts, we highly appreciate this! Please feel free to start socializing already and/or get something to eat or drink - that’s the point of our events anyway! Our regular members can also help you out with any basic matters.* **\*Our other weekly events\*** \- Friday evening socials every week \- Saturday afternoon cafe in Chelsea \- Canary Wharf socials every other Wednesday \- Outdoor fun \(hiking\, kayaking\, etc\) every weekend \- Dining\, cultural and travel activities on\-demand **JOIN OUR TEAM!** We're all volunteers, so if you enjoy organizing activities or events in your spare time, while meeting great people every week, send a message to our team account "TP"! **DISCLAIMER** We are a 100% volunteer-run team. Though we have high standards in planning, this is a private informal activity so we cannot be liable for any damage or inconvenience. However, we put safety and comfort first. We take all complaints seriously, and take severe action against any harassment, verbal or non-verbal, and anti-social behaviour, towards our guests or team members. We collaborate with the police when needed. We take photos and videos which may include you to help promote the community in line with GDPR Data Protection law, as well as stock photos from Pexels or Unsplash. We may restrict or prioritize guests at our own discretion for safety, quality and logistics reasons. While our team's decisions may not be perfect we ask that you follow our decisions first and raise any disputes to discuss with us later and privately. By attending you understand, agree with and respect all terms of this disclaimer.

**PLEASE VISIT THE WEBSITE TO CONFIRM SESSION DETAILS AND LET US KNOW YOU PLAN TO ATTEND. THIS IS MANDATORY.** **Want to do something useful with your exercise? GoodGym is no ordinary gym. We're a group of people who get fit by doing good - helping out local charities and community groups with physical jobs like shifting compost and planting trees.** **📍 We meet at** **Seats near the park, 1 Ruskin Square, Croydon, CR0 2WF** **at 6:45pm.** **🏃‍♂️ At 7:00pm we'll run, walk or cycle to do a 30-40 minute task.** **🏃‍♂️ Then we'll head back to where we started by 8:45pm, do some stretches and maybe grab a beverage?** It's FREE. It's fun. It's fulfilling. And we're a very friendly bunch. 🍇 — **BOOK ONTO THE SESSION** **To come to the session click here:** https://www.goodgym.org/v3/sessions **You will need to confirm your attendance on the GoodGym website** (this includes creating an account with us if you haven’t already - it only takes a few mins). The link above takes you to the session listings in your area - if this session doesn’t fit your schedule, you may find something that does so check it out. p.s. GoodGym is a charity and you will be asked whether you’d like to donate when first creating an account. The choice is yours and does not affect your ability to attend a session. — **FAQ** Not sure you'll keep up? GoodGym is for everyone (18+). Whether you've never run before, or are chasing a marathon PB, you are 100% welcome. We always have a back-marker so no one gets left behind. 70% of GoodGym members start as non-runners so if you're new to this kind of thing you will be supported by people who are all on the same journey. 👍 What do I need to wear? Most of us wear gym/running gear. Make sure you're prepared for the weather. Don't feel like you're fit enough? Our tasks are simple and fun. There are easy jobs as well as more challenging things for those who want a workout! The choice is always yours. Do I need to bring anything? Gardening gloves are really useful for a lot of GoodGym tasks. And a head torch too if it’s likely to get dark. Please bring some if you can but there’s no requirement 🧤💡🧤 What is GoodGym? We're a (really lovely) group of people who use our energy to make a difference in our local community (and in communities across the UK!). We often meet on a weeknight, at least once a week, for a session to do good and get fit. We'd love you to come and join us. Any questions, just pop a comment below or send me a message. Find out everything you need to know at goodgym.org

**Welcome back to LCC's Trail Running Club! For our next outing we're heading east to take on Hackney Marshes and the parklands and canal towpaths of the QEII Olympic parks. We should be looking at a bit more evening daylight this time of year!** **This will provide us a nice flat trail run. We'll be looking at roughly 30-45 minutes, covering around 3km at a moderate pace, ideal for beginners and intermediate runners. Whatever your speed, our organisers will always keep you in sight!** We'll meet at Hackney Wick station - look for me in the neon-yellow vest! Meeting time is 7, we'll head off at around 7:15. We'll head from there north over Hackney Bridge, up the towpath to Hackney Marshes, and then make a loop around and back down, over the footbridge to the East Marsh, following the River Lea southwards through Alfred's Meadow and back up via the Olympic Stadium to return to the Wick. There are toilets at Hackney Wick and at cafes located around the QEII parkland paths. I'll also be bringing plenty of water along with me, so if you forget yours, fear not. I've got a few spare bits of kit as well - if you would like a running sleeve to put your phone in or a pouch belt for keys and things, just shoot me a message on here ahead of time! All are welcome - we're a mix of skill levels and leg lengths, so I'll be maintaining a relatively relaxed pace and will make sure no one winds up too far behind. Our standard bit of info about our running group and why it's good is provided below: \-\-\-\-\- Humans evolved to run and sprint; no wonder then that when we do it regularly (within moderation and with plenty of rest days), our brains as well as bodies thank us. Running has recently been shown to [improve neuroplasticity,](https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6148340/) heal [brain damage](https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6148340/) in affected individuals, and foster [better mental health](https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/the-truth-behind-runners-high-and-other-mental-benefits-of-running) including elevated mood at rest and enhanced task-switching ability. Doing all this in nature, as opposed to busy London roads dodging commuters and street cleaners, also helps deliver the well-known [benefits](https://mcpress.mayoclinic.org/mental-health/the-mental-health-benefits-of-nature-spending-time-outdoors-to-refresh-your-mind/) of time spent in nature to mood, anxiety levels, cognition and memory. All these things matter a great deal in an age where burnout and exhaustion are a constant presence either in our own lives or those of the people we care about [who you should totally invite along]. It matters especially for people trying to eke out a percentage of their time and mental capacity for transformative social and political organising: the better we feel, the more we'll be able to do. In a nutshell, running is great for you and you should do it. Trail running is even better. Best of all is doing all this with a supportive group of comrades, especially one which includes knowledgeable folks who can provide some structure to what can be a puzzling sport to get started with if building up to something, like a 10k or half marathon, is your goal. Part of our running group's programming will be building a series of events aimed at building people up, slowly but surely, towards specific goals, using progressive programmes similar to the [NHS's Couch to 5k](https://www.nhs.uk/better-health/get-active/get-running-with-couch-to-5k/) system. \-\-\-\-\- Take care and see you on the trails!

Hello path-beaters and foot-padders! Once again it's that time again: Spring is in the air, or at least it will be (have been?) by the time we touch down in east London for another big step down **The Greenway on April 12th, 2026.** It was with this hidden gem of an urban nature trail that we kicked off last year's smash-hit nature walking series. Longtime LCC-ers will remember that we didn't actually get very far down the Greenway, thanks to the torturous interference of some no-good developers who put a big fence and a "GREENWAY CLOSED" sign in our way. We diverted and had a lovely hike anyway, but this time we'll be ready. The Greenway was once known as the Northern Outfall Sewer, a raised sewer line designed to whisk away the industrial filth of London during the height of the Industrial Revolution. At the start of the 20th century, it was sealed up and turned into a linear park for the enjoyment of working-class east London, over which it passes today - from Fish Island all the way over East Ham and on down to Silvertown and the end of the Woolwich Peninsula. We'll try to cover the whole distance, for a walk of about 3-3.5 hours. The weather should be alright - who can say - but do bring a wind layer and possibly some protection from light rains. Good walking shoes and boots are handy, but this trail shouldn't have much or any mud, since it's paved in quite a few places. A snack or lunch is worth bringing too, but we'll aim for a pub at the end somewhere. There are bathroom facilities at Hackney Wick, our starting point, as well as at a couple cafes at situated on the eastern end of the route. Along the way we'll see gorgeous views of the River Lea with its branches, canal sections and forests as well as the Olympic parklands of Hackney and Stratford. To top that off, we'll have a near birds-eye view of the changing human landscape with all the big fuck-off construction sites of Bow Goods Yard, Sweetwater, Pudding Mill etc - a veritable tour of the gentrification process as it rolls on in east London! Natural beauty and political-economic field research - a winning combination, so do join us. Take care and see you on the trail!

We hold two pub evenings a month on the first and third Wednesdays, with all the other Wednesdays being virtual pub evenings. We also normally have a monthly quiz on the last Wednesday of the month, during the virtual pub evening, at about 9pm, where a different member of our group prepares the questions to be used each month. This means that tonight is a standard virtual pub evening. Contact Roland in advance, preferably by e-mail, so that he can send you a link to click on at the start of the meeting. Please note the different arrangements for the first and third Wednesdays of the month.

Weekly cycling club open to members of that club only. Membership enquiries to creativewellnesswon@outlook.com

Some of the Beckenham & Bromley MYN group participate in a monthly Investment Club where we each contribute a virtual £25 to invest in UK equities. The meetings are normally held on the second Thursday of the month. The Investment Club has been running for just under 25 years, but we always welcome new or potential members. Prospective members are given up to three months to decide whether to join as active members. The choice of which virtual shares to buy, or to sell, is decided by those particpating in the meeting in a majority decision.. The meeting gives everyone a chance to discuss the stock market, the economy or anything else which members have noted could effect the share prices. Contact Roland in advance, preferably by e-mail on the day before, so that he can send you a link to click on at the start of the meeting.

Discover your ability to unicycle in a no-pressure friendly environment where you will (literally) have someone to lean on. Learn all the secret tips and hints and get up and rolling in no time! Anyone can learn to ride the unicycle and to play unicycle hockey. We have unicycles for you to use and play with, but please let us know in advance so we can ensure we have these available. Just be willing to have a go with a friendly bunch of varying abilities. Costs: £0 until you can unicycle a length of the hall, unassisted £15 for adults £5 for concessions (students, retired, between jobs etc)

Join us on Friday evenings at the charming L’ETO Café for a relaxed and inspiring social meetup in the heart of Soho. Whether you’re a local or visiting London, this gathering is a simple, welcoming way to enjoy good conversation and meet interesting, open-minded people in a cozy café setting. Expect relaxed chats, thoughtful exchanges, and a friendly atmosphere - all over great coffee, tea, and indulgent cakes. What to Expect • Meet and connect with people from different backgrounds - professionals, creatives, and curious minds • Easy, natural conversations in a respectful and comfortable environment • A social evening that’s friendly and low-pressure, with no formal networking or expectations From time to time, we may include a short, light activity (such as an icebreaker or quiz) and gently rotate seating so everyone has a chance to meet new faces - always keeping the focus on relaxed coffee and easy conversation. Whether you’re new in town or a familiar face, join us for an evening of warmth, inspiration, and genuine connection. We’d love to see you there. ☕ Please note: The event is free to attend. To support our host café, we kindly encourage everyone to purchase at least one drink. 📸 We share upcoming events, community highlights, and social moments on Instagram - follow us to stay connected: https://www.instagram.com/lsc.2026 ✨ Stay Connected with London Social Connect ✨

The Unity of Columbus Resource Group for the Homeless is seeking compassionate volunteers who would like to help serve and uplift members of our homeless community. This group is dedicated to sharing kindness, resources, and support with individuals who may be experiencing difficult circumstances. Anyone with a heart for service is welcome to join us as we work together to make a positive difference in the lives of others. Community members are also invited to contribute by bringing helpful items for those in need. Donations of items can be contributed at the meeting and will be distributed to assist members of the homeless community. Please consider joining us and sharing this opportunity with friends, family, or associates who may also wish to help. Learn more about Unity of Columbus at www.unityofcolumbus.org or call (614) 267-4959. Together we can extend compassion, dignity, and support to our community. 💛

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.

**Community Dance – Every Friday at Unity of Columbus** Let go of the week’s stress and move into joy! Join us every Friday for an evening of community, connection, and dance at Unity of Columbus. It’s a chance to meet new friends, express yourself through movement, and experience the emotional healing that comes from music and rhythm. No dance experience needed — just bring your energy, an open heart, and your dancing shoes! Dance is freedom. Dance is healing. Dance is fun.

Join us every 3rd Sunday of the month right after the Sunday Service for our Potluck Fellowship — a warm and welcoming time to connect, share, and celebrate community together! Bring your favorite dish to share (homemade or store-bought — all are welcome) and enjoy a delicious meal with friends old and new. It’s a wonderful opportunity to relax, laugh, and deepen your connections. Come hungry for good food, uplifting conversation, and heartfelt fellowship!

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 a good/fun/meaningful time together, Dan

Dinner and dancing

Join us for a two mile trail hike alongside the Brookside Trail at Blendon Woods Metro Park. This trail is largely gravel and does include some hills and stairs. Hopefully we will see some wildlife while hike this scenic trail! Join us!