Raising a Child as a Single Mother

**Welcome to Miss Bachata & Miss Salsa!** **Spring is in the air, and with it comes the promise of new beginnings, fresh energy, and the joy of connection!** As the season of renewal unfolds, we invite you to step into the rhythm of community, dance, and celebration at Miss Bachata & Miss Salsa. My objective has always been to create a different kind of social gathering—one that is open, non-judgmental, and safe. A place where you can meet people just like you, where socializing and dancing come together to help build community and tear down the walls that separate us. Here, we make new friends, feel a sense of belonging, and enjoy the calmness that comes from knowing we are in a safe and welcoming space. Many times, I have been asked, “Why host an event on Monday night?” Many people escape on the weekend and dread Mondays when they return to work. I believe that if you dance and socialize on a Monday, you infuse your week with joy and positive energy, giving your life balance and helping you face your challenges with enthusiasm and confidence. We’re also thrilled to announce that our trial of advanced Bachata lessons, which began last September, has been a resounding success! Building on this momentum, we’re excited to offer an enhanced schedule for 2026. Our dance evenings will now feature three hours of classes: one hour of beginner to intermediate Bachata, one hour of advanced Bachata, and one hour of beginner to intermediate Salsa. As always, the entrance fee remains $15 for a night of 2 lessons and social dancing. For those interested in the advanced Bachata lessons, there will be an additional $5 fee. Here’s our updated schedule: **Miss Bachata – Main Ballroom** 🕖 7:00 pm – 8:00 pm: Beginner to Intermediate Bachata Lesson (No partner required) 🕗 8:00 pm – 12:00 am: Social Dancing **Miss Salsa – Round Room** 🕖 7:00 pm – 8:00 pm: Advanced Bachata Lesson (+$5) **NEW** 🕗 8:00 pm – 9:00 pm: Beginner to Intermediate Salsa Lesson 🕘 9:00 pm – 12:00 am: Social Dancing ✨ **Additional Details:** ✔️ Free Parking ✔️ Full Bar (Free Water, Beer: $5.75) Over the past decade, organizing Latin dancing events in Mississauga has been a labor of love. Our mission has always been to foster a sense of community, proving that the connections we share are far stronger than the differences that divide us. Loneliness is a growing concern, with over half of U.S. adults and many Canadians experiencing its effects. The COVID-19 pandemic has only heightened this issue. Harvard University's long-term study on happiness, which began in 1938, highlights the detrimental impact of loneliness on health. People with strong social connections experience slower mental and physical decline and greater overall happiness compared to those who are isolated. Here are some key findings from the study: 🌿 Close ties help delay mental and physical decline more than money, fame, social class, IQ, or genetics. 🌿 Relationship satisfaction is a better predictor of aging well than cholesterol levels in middle age. 🌿 A strong sense of community improves memory function. 🌿 Loneliness can be as harmful to health as smoking or alcoholism. And there’s hope! Strengthening our relationships and supporting community initiatives can combat loneliness and build healthier, happier lives. Miss Bachata & Miss Salsa provides a wonderful opportunity to make new friends, expand your social circle, and enjoy a safe, welcoming, authentic environment. Bring your open heart and a smile, and we’ll take care of the rest. 🌸 **Cheers to a season of renewal, joy, and community!** 🌸 **Anna G.** https://www.meetup.com/LatinDanceMeetup https://www.facebook.com/groups/1871491806494168/ https://www.facebook.com/EventsByAnnaG

**(If you are interested in hosting our meetups in Toronto, we would love to hear from you. Please write a quick message to Dan at +44 7715705005 and let's chat)** Are you someone who is local (or a westerner who has lived in the city for a while, understand the local culture and speak the local language) and are confident when meeting new people of different backgrounds and cultures? We’re looking for a lively friendly host to manage some of our weekly Fastfriends meetups in your city. As a host, your role would be to: ✨ Welcome members and make them feel comfortable ✨ Encourage conversations and help people connect ✨ Direct and manage our fastfriending socialising format ✨ Keep the energy positive and the fast friending event flowing smoothly ✨Manage the event relationship with the venue What is in it for you? \- this is a volunteer role but we give you an expense allowance to cover some of your expenses\. \- ⁠you get exposure to the local and international community and can make a positive contribution \- ⁠you get experience with meeting new people\,running social events and managing groups\. We would love to hear from you. Please write a quick message to Dan at +44 7715705005 and let's chat.

**Set goals.** **Be accountable for them.** **Move your life forward with purpose.** Our goal is to cause greatness by mentoring men to live with excellence and, as mature masculine leaders, create successful families, careers and communities. If you have the desire to work on being the man that your legacy demands that you be (which means being the best you can be, we can work on what your legacy demands with you later) and the man you always wanted to be then we look forward to you attending. Our group is part of Mentor Discover Inspire (MDI). This group meets Mondays, North of Finch Avenue, usually indoors, outdoors in the summer but occasionally on Zoom. To confirm this week's location, please rsvp to Ricardo, call/text (647) 880-1488, or email ricardophilip@hotmail.com From MDI website[: https://goo.gl/3DQ6](https://goo.gl/3DQ6aY)aY From Toronto Sta[r: https://goo.gl/oDH](https://goo.gl/oDH3uX)3uX Regular attendees do not always RSVP, expect 6-8 men to be present.

**🏛️ WHAT'S PRACTICAL PHILOSOPHY ABOUT?** Practical Philosophy is a weekly meet-up that brings critical thinkers together for an opportunity to dive deep on a topic, practice communicating, and building a community. All with no ‘official’ philosophy knowledge required! 😎 Practical Philosophy is based on the idea that philosophy should be accessible to all, and not something reserved only for academics. Each week we choose a topic, and the goal is to use the conversation to develop our critical thinking and communication as we explore that topic. The goal is to help develop our Critical Thinking, Communication, and Community 🙌 **📓 HOW DOES IT WORK?** Each week, we pick one topic and discuss it. The topic for the week is shared, generally in the [Whatsapp group](https://tally.so/r/81LP4A), along with jump-off points to get the conversation going. When groups get bigger than 7-8 people, it’s important that we break into smaller groups. This way we are able to maintain a conversational flow as opposed to having our meetups feel like a discourse or lecture. **General Meeting Agenda** Each Practical Philosophy meet-up follows this general timeline: * 19:00-19:15 - People arrive and chat, get to know each other before the official start. * 19:15-19:25 - Meeting introduction, explanation of Practical Philosophy and the topic for the week, read the guidelines and the overview so attendees know what to expect in terms of timelines. * 19:25-20:45 - Break into small groups - introduce yourselves and general thoughts on the topic, open discussion afterwards. At this point the group can review the ‘jump-off’ questions as needed, but they are just there to help guide the conversation. It’s not obligatory to answer them. * 20:45-21:00 - Bring everyone back together to discuss conclusions of the topic - each group gives a short 1-minute summary. Organizer concludes the meeting and everyone takes a group photo. * 21:00 - The official meeting is over but it’s a great opportunity to get to know people in a non-structured environment, so we often stick around, chat, and get to know each other. **🧧PRICING?** Practical Philosophy is operated entirely on voluntary donations! If we are meeting in a café, buy a beverage! Donations are 100% voluntary, but they help us to bring the gift of deep conversation to people around the world. If you'd like to support, you can [donate here](https://www.zeffy.com/en-CA/donation-form/donate-to-practical-philosophy)! (Practical Philosophy is a registered Canadian charity) **💛 WHAT PEOPLE SAY ABOUT PRACTICAL PHILOSOPHY** **🗣** “I feel like Philosophy Club helps someone build their own belief system through a series of perspectives while not promoting what’s right and wrong” - Ekam 🗣 “I got hooked from day 1 (the topic was authority) and felt it was the right place for me. I feel it is a place where people can go to learn and discuss new perspectives and increase critical thinking and community by interacting with people who might challenge your point of views but at the same time encourage you to have openness and mind flexibility.” - Daniel **🤓 FAQ** * **Do I need to study or read anything to attend?** No preparation is necessary. This isn’t a study of other thinkers. We want to know what you think about the topic, not what an old philosopher thought. If you have a perspective from a religion or a school of thought to share, throw it on the table and we’ll discuss it. * **Is there a specific philosophy that Practical Philosophy is focused on?** The goal of our meet-ups is to not have dogmatic discussions, and flex our critical thinking muscles. Because of this, we want to hear from every realm of thought, and don't study a particular school. * **Is it mostly men that attend?** Surprisingly, no! Although often, philosophy is seen as a Candelabra affair in a dark room with a bunch of guys, our Practical Philosophy meetups are generally 50/50 between genders, and we don’t meet in any dark rooms. * **Can I come alone?** Of course you can, we encourage it :) * **Can I be late?** Please don't be! We do have a 15 minute grace period where we allow people to funnel in while we hang out, but after that if you arrive too late, it disrupts the flow of the conversation. * **Where do you meet?** The location is posted in Meetup and our [Whatsapp](https://tally.so/r/81LP4A) group for this location. It is HIGHLY RECOMMENDED that you join the Whatsapp group! If you want to know what other cities have a Practical Philosophy Club, you can see our chapters on our [website](https://www.practicalphilosophy.club/). 🤝**POLICY** To respect our members privacy, we ask that no one privately message a member without first getting explicit consent. (This looks like speaking in person and being asked to message privately.) Contacting or texting other participants without prior consent is not permitted and may result in removal from the group. Practical Philosophy reserves the right to enforce this policy at its discretion to maintain a safe and respectful environment. **PRACTICAL PHILOSOPHY CLUB - Philosophy, everywhere. ✨** We started in Practical Philosophy back in 2021 and there are now 50+ chapters in 25+ countries, including Canada, Spain, Japan, Mexico and many more! 🗺️ **\*\*\*** **Join our [Mississauga Whatsapp](https://tally.so/r/81LP4A) 👈** **Follow us on [Instagram](instagram.com/practicalphilosophyclub/) 👈** **Our [website](https://www.practicalphilosophy.club/) 👈**

We are a men's group where you can expect a frank and confidential space to speak personally, engage in interesting conversations or get support for your personal goals. This new team meets weekly on the East side of Toronto. Our group is part of Mentor Discover Inspire (MDI). This group prefers to meet outdoors but occasionally on Zoom. Guests are welcome but it's pretty casual so make sure you are expected in case we move locations. You can rsvp via meetup or call Tim @ 416-278-3058 to confirm this week’s location. The MDI Mission: To cause greatness by mentoring men to live with excellence and, as mature masculine leaders, create successful families, careers and communities. From MDI website[: https://goo.gl/3DQ6](https://goo.gl/3DQ6aY)aY From Toronto Sta[r: https://goo.gl/oDH](https://goo.gl/oDH3uX)3uX

Practise your English in a friendly, welcoming class in Toronto. Join our free in-person English class and improve your speaking, fluency, grammar and vocabulary with supportive teachers. This class is a great opportunity to practise English, build confidence and meet new people. **When** Starting today - every weekday Monday - Friday 2.00pm–4.00pm **Where** Teaching House Toronto OHC / Sol Camps 469 Jarvis St Toronto, ON M4Y 2G8 Canada **What you’ll practise** * Speaking and fluency * Grammar and vocabulary * Listening and pronunciation * Everyday English for real-life situations * Confidence using English with other people **Who can join?** Adults aged 18+ who want to improve their English. Refugees, asylum seekers and newcomers are very welcome. **About the classes** The classes are taught by trainee English teachers on a Cambridge-accredited CELTA course and supervised by experienced teacher trainers. **Cost** Free **Before the class** Please arrive a little early so we can welcome you and check your English level. Spaces may be limited, so please RSVP if you would like to attend.Cost: FREE Sign up using this **Level Test: [https://forms.gle/CZXAHL9w4WfsVdxk6](https://forms.gle/CZXAHL9w4WfsVdxk6)** OR If you already know your level, choose the [registration form](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSe65RTiI_hQMJ_58JdE2DhhtYyF2Mz3Ah_PN2hL3yLSkJadpA/viewform?usp=sf_link) instead

🌟Get up to 20 mini dates with likeminded professionals with the same life goal & intention for marriage within 5 years. 📅 **When:** Monday\, June 8\, 2026 \| 7:00pm – 10:00pm 📍 **Where:** Oria on king (220 King St WToronto) ✨ **What to Expect:** * A dedicated and experienced event host & emcee - Andrea Lo * Icebreakers and intros * Speed dating rounds (only 1-1.5 hr to keep it light) * Open mingling so you talk to anyone you missed or spend more time with someone * Digital match form * 🎟 **Tickets:**[ ](https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/toronto-dating-hub-may-speed-dating-for-marriage-minded-professionals-tickets-1987576856883?aff=meetup)[\[Buy Here\]](https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/toronto-dating-hub-june-speed-dating-for-marriage-minded-professionals-tickets-1990059002046?aff=meetup) **(must buy ticket from website - RSVP from Meetup doesn't count)** ⚠️ **Important:** ***Tickets are non-refundable***. Each ticket includes a ***$15 deposit*** that will be deducted if you cancel before the event date. No credit will be offered for same-day cancellations or no-shows. 🔗 Can’t make it? Follow **[Toronto Dating Hub](https://www.torontodatinghub.com/)** for upcoming mixers & events! 🌟

Toronto's professional singles deserve better than dating apps and awkward bar introductions. Soulmates Club is raising the standard. **Make sure you get your ticket through Eventbrite: [click here](https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/toronto-singles-night-for-professionals-by-soulmates-club-tickets-1990345599266?aff=oddtdtcreator)** Join us for an intimate evening of real conversation, genuine connection, and effortless mingling curated exclusively for ambitious professionals who are serious about finding love. **What to expect:** * A handpicked guest list capped at just 50 attendees * An upscale, welcoming atmosphere at one of Toronto's premier venues, Mademoiselle * Smart casual dress code, come as your best self Follow us to learn more! Website: [https://thesoulmatesclub.com/](https://thesoulmatesclub.com/ "https://thesoulmatesclub.com/") Instagram: [https://www.instagram.com/the_soulmates_club](https://www.instagram.com/the_soulmates_club "https://www.instagram.com/the_soulmates_club")

ABCD Reads "**[Educated](https://tpl.bibliocommons.com/v2/record/S234C3619554)**" by Tara Westover. ([RESULTS](https://opavote.com/results/5133360801513472) of the poll for this event.) **:: ABOUT THE BOOK ::** "Tara Westover’s new tale of escape, Educated, makes [J.D.] Vance’s seem tame by comparison ... The extremity of Westover’s upbringing emerges gradually through her telling, which only makes the telling more alluring and harrowing ... It is only when the final, wrenching break from most of her family arrives that one realizes just how courageous this testimonial really is. These disclosures will take a toll. But one is also left convinced that the costs are worth it. By the end, Westover has somehow managed not only to capture her unsurpassably exceptional upbringing, but to make her current situation seem not so exceptional at all, and resonant for many others." (from [BookMarks.reviews](https://bookmarks.reviews/reviews/educated/)) "Born to survivalists in the mountains of Idaho, Tara Westover was seventeen the first time she set foot in a classroom. Her family was so isolated from mainstream society that there was no one to ensure the children received an education, and no one to intervene when one of Tara’s older brothers became violent. When another brother got himself into college, Tara decided to try a new kind of life. Her quest for knowledge transformed her, taking her over oceans and across continents, to Harvard and to Cambridge University. Only then would she wonder if she’d traveled too far, if there was still a way home." (from [Goodreads](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/35133922-educated)) **:: ABOUT THE EVENT ::** You are welcome to arrive 30 minutes before the event and stay 30 minutes or longer afterward to connect with other attendees outside the book talk. Please ensure you have read the book before attending (though finishing any book is not a barrier to participating, as long as you don't mind spoilers). First-time attendees can join for free. If the event is full, we maintain an unofficial waitlist. Please send [Michael](https://www.meetup.com/members/55295192/) a direct message for more information, in either case. We request a $3 contribution from regular attendees to help cover our monthly meetup costs. **:: ABOUT OUR NEXT BOOK ::** At the end of each event, we will ask for nominees for our next book. If you have a good one in mind, please ensure it is between 200-400 pages long, available from the Toronto Public Library, and counts as contemporary literary fiction (though these are not hard and fast rules). When enough nominees are collected, Michael will send the members a direct message with a link where you can vote.

🍁 **Fall Niagara Falls Hiking Trip** 🌦️ **Rain or Shine!** The adventure goes on — whether it’s golden sunshine, crisp autumn air, or a little mist from the Falls (it *is* Niagara, after all!). \*\*\* 🥾 **About the Trip** Let’s escape the city for a full fall day of fresh air, friendship, and breathtaking scenery! We’ll explore the *natural* side of Niagara Falls — less tourist traps, more trails, trees, and pure wonder. We’ll meet outside the **Fairmont Royal York (Front St. W)** in the morning, hop on the **GO Train**, and head to **Niagara Glen Nature Reserve** for an afternoon hike among ancient boulders and the turquoise waters of the Niagara River. This hike includes stairs (about three flights) and uneven terrain — so bring your comfy hiking shoes or sturdy runners (flip-flops will cry). \*\*\* 🌲 **The Trail Experience** The Niagara Glen is a hidden gem — carved out of the gorge thousands of years ago. We’ll follow winding forest paths, stop for photos, and take in the beauty of fall leaves glowing against the mighty river. It’s about 4 km total, with lots of opportunities to pause, chat, and soak in the view. ⚠️🥾 **IMPORTANT: HIKE EXPECTATIONS – PLEASE READ CAREFULLY** 🥾⚠️ This is a **real hiking trail**, not a casual walk. You need to arrive knowing you can: ✔️ Walk for an extended period of time ✔️ Handle uneven terrain and elevation (including the climb back up) ✔️ Keep a steady group pace without frequent stops This is **not the time to test your fitness level** or “see how it goes.” If you are unsure whether you can complete the hike, please sit this one out. 👉 If someone is unable to keep up, they may be asked to turn back or continue at their own pace. The group will not be stopping or slowing down significantly, as it impacts the experience for everyone. This is about keeping the group safe, on track, and enjoyable for all. \*\*\* 🍔 **Dinner & Cozy Evening** After the hike, we’ll head to **Chuck’s Roadhouse** on Clifton Hill for a relaxed dinner (everyone pays for their own meal). It’s friendly, affordable, and always buzzing after a big day outdoors. **Please Note -** This place is not the most vegetarian friendly place. If you will not be joining us because of that reason. Please let me know as will be trying to make reservations. This should not be something you tell me lat minute. \*\*\* 🎇 **Niagara Falls** After dinner, we’ll stroll down to the Falls and enjoy the rolling sound of the majestic falls. \*\*\* 💲 **Meetup Fee:** 💵 **$5 cash at the event** *or* 📲 **E-transfer anytime (before or on the day)** to \*\*[mathewmaclean@hotmail.com**](http://mathewmaclean@hotmail.com%2A%2A/) (You can pay either way — easy!) \*\*\* 🚆 **TRANSPORTATION REQUIREMENT** To keep things simple and organized: 👉 **Only those traveling together on the GO Train with the group will be able to participate.** We will not be meeting people at Niagara Falls. This helps avoid confusion, delays, and coordination issues, and keeps the group moving smoothly from start to finish. 🚆 **Travel Details (approximate)** * **8:15 AM** – Meet at the main doors of the Fairmont Royal York (Front St. W). I’ll be wearing my *Moose Hat!* 🫎 * **8:30 AM** – Depart * **9:03 AM** – GO Train to Niagara Falls * **11:25 AM** – Arrive at Niagara Falls * **12:30 PM** – Start hike at Niagara Glen * **4:30 PM** – Dinner at Chuck’s Roadhouse * **6:00 PM** – Walk Down to the Falls * **8:00–9:00 PM** – Return train to Toronto *GO schedules may shift slightly — I’ll update the group closer to the date.* \*\*\* 🎟️ **Tickets & Gear** Please purchase the **GO + WEGO Combo Ticket (round trip $20)** before the trip you can buy this one day before. 👉 [CLICK HERE to buy your pass](https://www.niagaraparks.com/visit-niagara-parks/plan-your-visit/deals-toronto/) Bring: 🥾 Comfortable shoes or boots 💧 Water & snacks 📸 Camera or charged phone (you’ll want photos!) \*\*\* 📲 **Join Our WhatsApp Group:**[ Click here to join](https://chat.whatsapp.com/DRFTkxRlHS4B3IL1lMleUd) \*\*\* ⚠️ **Important Notes** This is a full, active day — lots of walking, laughing, and exploring. Open to everyone — singles, couples, or friends. You can *just show up* the day of if you’re unsure in advance. \*\*\* 👤 **Organized by Mathew** Questions? Post on the event wall or email: \*\*[torontomoviesandoutings@hotmail.com**](http://torontomoviesandoutings@hotmail.com%2A%2A/)

Singles Dance Party + 40 crowd **Saturday June 13th** 7.30pm -12.30 **The Grand Luxe Ballroom** **3125 Bayview Ave** Join us for a fabulous a Saturday night of Dancing & Romancing . We have a great DJ playing all your favorite tunes from the 70’s to the present. It’s your opportunity to mix, mingle, enjoy a few dances and meet some new friends. You can dance the night away on their big dance floor. Please, no running shoes or jeans. The cost is only $20.00. 416- 236- 8222 Free Parking. Hope to see you then! Peter and Diane Singles Dance Party + 40 Crowd

Hello everyone, Plan to join us for a great day to mix, mingle and **Bowling!** \*Joined by my other groups to so we can anticipate a terrific turn out. \*Event details below \-\-\- **Location:** **Play Time Bowl** 33 Samor Rd, North York, ON M6A 1J2 **Free Parking** found all around the location \-\-\- Sincerely, Steve Flemming Organizer/Host [meetup.com/soulcity/](http://meetup.com/soulcity/) \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **Event Details:** **SATURDAY BOWLING with SINGLES and FRIENDS!** -A fun, well organized event with lots of socializing, mingling and of course ten pin bowling! -This event is totally co-ed for all levels and all ages -Bring along your friends if you like or come on your own; either way always a great time \*Dinner menu available too (Optional) -Free Parking as well all around the venue \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **Event Fee:** 40 dollars (Includes Social Mixer, 90 minutes of Bowling, and then more mingling after (optional) Also includes HST & Shoe Rental in the price) \*Cash only when you arrive or by e transfer in advance: **[steveflemming11@gmail.com](http://steveflemming11@gmail.com)** \*10 dollars if you wish to just take part in the (pre and/or after) mix/mingle party but not the bowling \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **Please arrive between 4:00 pm & 4:40 pm**-so I can secure lanes for everyone (You will see me (Steve Flemming) (and the group) when you walk in through the front entrance in the main bar/seating area \*We will have time to introduce ourselves and get to know each other before we begin the bowling :) \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **Friendly Reminders:** Located just south of 401 and just off of Dufferin (on west side) \*Parking is Free (located on both sides of building) Closest subway station is Yorkdale Mall -10 minute walk from the mall subway station \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-

Hey Everyone! Let's meet at Belle's Bread Bakery and Cafe. There is lots of free parking and easy access to the cafe and many shops and restaurants as well. This is a great way to meet new and old friends while chatting about life and practicing English language speaking skills. All are welcome and encouraged to join us anytime between 11am and 1pm. Looking forward to seeing you soon.

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.