Saving the Planet

** Refresh & Connect: 1-Hour Morning Walk around The Tan – Every Weekday!** Start your day the refreshing way with a gentle, energising group walk in the heart of Melbourne! ** Schedule** * **Meet**: Aim for 6:50 AM at the steps/entrance area of **Federation Square** (look for the group near the main steps or a small sign – easy to spot in the early light). * **Depart**: 7:05 AM sharp – we leave on time to keep things smooth! * **Route**: A relaxed loop around **The Tan** (the iconic 3.8 km gravel track circling the Royal Botanic Gardens and Kings Domain). * **Pace**: Easy and conversational – perfect for walking, not racing. We're there to enjoy the fresh air, not set records. * **Vibe**: Friendly banter welcome! Chat, laugh, share stories, or just enjoy the peaceful surroundings in companionable silence. We're mindful of the beautiful parklands – leave no trace, respect other path users, and soak up the calm of nature right in the city. * **Finish**: Back at Federation Square around 8:00 AM (about 55 minutes of walking + buffer for a relaxed pace). * **Optional extra**: Grab a well-earned coffee or breakfast at **Clocks** (or nearby spots) to keep the conversation going if you like. This is a no-pressure, inclusive group for anyone who wants to: * Kickstart their weekday with movement and fresh air * Meet friendly locals in a low-key setting * Enjoy Melbourne's stunning parklands in the beautiful morning light All fitness levels welcome – walkers of every speed are encouraged (just be ready to move at 7:05 AM!). Bring water, comfortable shoes, and a positive attitude. Dress for the weather – mornings can be crisp! See you on the steps – let's make mornings brighter together! ‍♂️‍♀️ **Recurring**: Every Monday–Friday **Duration**: \~1 hour **Location**: Federation Square, Melbourne CBD

Come join us and practise public speaking! All levels are welcome. Take the first step to overcome your fears, build confidence and learn to speak with impact in a friendly, supportive and encouraging environment. Start you public speaking journey with us now to improve your communications skills and elevate all aspects of your life. Please arrive 10 minutes early so we can settle everyone in for a 5.30pm start. See you soon!

We all recognize that if things were better organized, people would be better off. We have all had experiences with a business or government, school or a group that was not well organized and we experience the confusion, delays and upsets of trying to deal with disorganization. On a personal level, trying to get something started - a plan, some new bright idea you had, perhaps starting a new business - without organization can be a nightmare. Organization is a key and often missing factor in personal success. It is also essential for a flourishing family, group, organization or business. Attaining one's goals, no matter how large or small, requires a knowledge and application of organization.

We are doing a seminar on how to help increase your income, and to give you some useable tools that you can help apply to your life/new business venture in order to take yourself to the next level, financially! It is no secret that the cost of living is continuing to grow, and will most likely only continue to. So how can you work around this? In this seminar you will learn: \- Who is the most important person in any business\. \- How to set achievable goals\. \- The power of surveying \- PLUS MORE\! Come along and learn some useful tools that could help set you on the right path.

This meetup is your introduction to Dianetics, and you can have your questions answered. **[DIANETICS THE ALL-TIME CLASSIC ON THE HUMAN MIND](https://www.dianetics.org/about/films/what-is-dianetics.html)** For 75 years, Dianetics: The Modern Science of Mental Health has remained popular, with over 20 million copies sold across 206 nations. Why? Because it challenges everything you thought you knew-about yourself, your decisions, and the unseen influences affecting your life. You may not know what the reactive mind is-yet. But once you do, it will change your life forever. This hidden part of your mind stores painful experiences and uses them against you, altering your thoughts, emotions and behaviors in ways you don't even realize. Inside this handbook, you'll discover: • Why the same struggles keep repeating—and how you can break free • The real reason behind stress, unreasonable fears, and negative emotions • A clear step-by-step method to clear your mind and unlock your true potential This is not theory—it's a practical, one-on-one journey into your reactive mind and how you can get rid of it. You don't have to wait for change-you can start today. **Discover the Power of Your Mind** Join us for a relaxed, interactive **Dianetics Meetup**, where it's your chance to explore the groundbreaking discoveries in *Dianetics: The Modern Science of Mental Health* and have all your questions answered. Come with your curiosity—leave with insight. Ask for Michel, Pam or Donovan. If the time and date do not suit you personally, you may reschedule, SMS Pam on: 0405 648 822 https://www.dianetics.org/about/films/what-is-dianetics.html

**Dusk, by Robbie Arnott** A masterful, mythical tale of loss, love, redemption and survival. In the distant highlands, a puma named Dusk is killing shepherds. Down in the lowlands, twins Iris and Floyd are out of work, money and friends. When they hear that a bounty has been placed on Dusk, they reluctantly decide to join the hunt. As they journey up into this wild, haunted country, they discover there's far more to the land and people of the highlands than they imagined. And as they close in on their prey, they're forced to reckon with conflicts both ancient and deeply personal. **Joint winner of the 2025 ARA Historical Novel Prize: Adult category** **Winner of the 2025 Indie Book Awards for Fiction and Book of the Year Award** **Winner of the 2025 ABIA Literary Fiction Book of the Year**

**Join Us for a Special Clean-Up Event This March!** This month, we're switching things up and hosting our event on a Sunday - for a great reason! Our clean-up will coincide with **Clean Up Australia Day** on **Sunday, 1st March**, making it an extra special occasion. But that’s not all - we’re also celebrating the **8th birthday** of the **Maribyrnong River Rubbish Club!** To mark the occasion, we’ll be providing a **light vegetarian lunch** after our usual clean-up, and we’d love for you to join us. **\*\*\* EVENT DETAILS \*\*\*** **What to Expect** Enjoy fresh air, good conversation and light exercise, all while making a positive impact on our local environment. We’ll be collecting rubbish along the banks of the Maribyrnong River. **What to Bring** * Water, sun protection and closed-toe shoes * We encourage you to bring your own gloves and sunscreen, but we’ll have extras available * All clean-up equipment, including rubbish bags, will be provided **Meeting Point** We usually meet at **Footscray Wharf, near Waterside Metal Art**. However, locations may change, so please check the event page beforehand. If you have trouble finding us on the day, call **0418 184 457 or 0415 635 063**. **Weather Policy** We meet every month, except in cases of extreme weather. If you’re unsure, check the event page on the morning of the clean-up for any updates. Come along, get involved, and help us celebrate eight years of making a difference!

Save the date!! Terminator 2 with a live performance by an orchestra .....with LAZERS!!! Exact date TBC but anticipate Saturday 28 February!

Are You Really Happy? The way to happiness! Based on the book of the same name, The Way to Happiness by L. Ron Hubbard is the acclaimed common sense guide to better living that inspired a worldwide movement. Here are all twenty-one of its precepts, including “Love and Help Children,” “Take Care of yourself” and “Honor and Help Your Parents,” brought to life in dramatic and inspiring stories. Discover what people all over the world use in their daily lives to achieve more lasting and fulfilling relationships with family, friends and colleagues. What does it take to be happy? Find out, Watch the documentary and better still attend any of our meetup's https://www.scientology.tv/documentaries/the-way-to-happiness.html Do not harm a person of goodwill. The way to happiness is far more easily traveled when one supports people of goodwill. After all the survival of most individuals depends on them. Attend our meetup at the set time or simply drop by and visit the public information center at any time. 9am till 9pm. Monday to Friday, 9am till 5pm Saturday and Sunday. Michel, Tim and Tanja. Voices for Humanity

[GET YOUR TICKET (CLICK HERE)](https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/1980758568198?aff=oddtdtcreator)[ ](https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/1977239373191?aff=oddtdtcreator) \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **️ Date:** Sunday, 1 March 2026 **Location:** Werribee Gorge (Approximately 60 minutes from Melbourne CBD on Sundays) ** Need a lift?** [Tap here - To see the carpool drivers and organise your ride.](https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1J8fVo8opAk8SXjLD_mZ3Ro8hydJxxVb_0u6QwCPzjwc/edit?usp=sharing "https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1J8fVo8opAk8SXjLD_mZ3Ro8hydJxxVb_0u6QwCPzjwc/edit?usp=sharing") **Hike Distance:** Around 15 km total. **Trail Map:** [Werribee Gorge](https://www.alltrails.com/en-gb/trail/australia/victoria/werribee-gorge-circuit-walk?sh=gu0gil&utm_medium=trail_share&utm_source=alltrails_virality "https://www.alltrails.com/en-gb/trail/australia/victoria/werribee-gorge-circuit-walk?sh=gu0gil&utm_medium=trail_share&utm_source=alltrails_virality") **Start Time:** 2:45 PM. Please arrive at the hike/parking location (shared via the private Instagram group chat). This allows time for a quick ice breaker and, if available, a toilet break at the car park before we set off. The hike will begin promptly at 3:00 PM. **End Time:** 7:00 PM. ‍♂️ **Pace/Difficulty:** Friendly and social / Easy. ⌛️ **Average Hike Duration:** 4–6 hours, depending on the group’s pace + including breaks to admire nature and a lunch break along the trail. **Community Chat Access:** You'll be added to our private Instagram group chat after booking! This is where we share final hike details, updates, and a fun space to connect before and after the hike. To make it easy for us to add you, please follow us on Instagram [@wildseekvic](https://www.instagram.com/wildseekvic/?igsh=NHBmMmptZDJ2bDJ6&utm_source=qr "https://www.instagram.com/wildseekvic/?igsh=NHBmMmptZDJ2bDJ6&utm_source=qr") prior booking. **Important Note** For this hike, we recommend that all participants download the **AllTrails app** before the event. This will help you: * View the trail map in advance * Track your progress during the hike * Stay on course in case you get separated from the group Having AllTrails ensures everyone can enjoy the hike safely and confidently. \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- Looking to meet new people, explore nature, and have a good laugh along the way? This is your perfect Sunday plan! We’re excited to invite you to our upcoming Melbourne Social Hike. A welcoming day out where the focus is all about fun, friendships, and fresh air. Whether you come solo or bring a mate, you’ll leave with new connections and memories! \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **Carpooling Makes It Happen** Wilderness Seekers Victoria runs on community spirit and carpooling is a big part of that. Every seat offered means another hiker can join the adventure. Less cars, easier logistics, more fun together. Carpooling is a great way to start the day by meet new people, share a few laughs, and arrive at the trail together. Drivers, your contribution makes a huge difference, and passengers, your gratitude keeps it all running smoothly. It’s simple, social, and one of the best parts of the Wilderness Seekers Victoria experience. \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **Carpool Driver information** If you’ve got spare seats and don’t mind some company, offering a lift is one of the best ways to kick off the day . It makes the trip more fun, helps out fellow hikers who don’t have a car, and is an easy way to make a few friends before we even hit the trail. Plus, fewer cars means less parking stress and a smoother start for everyone. For passengers, it’s the easiest way to get to the trail, meet new people and enjoy the ride together instead of travelling alone. In our Wilderness Seekers Victoria community, many people are more than happy to help out those without cars it’s part of what makes these days feel so welcoming and connected. ✨ Best practice: Passengers should try to secure transportation before purchasing a ticket to avoid any last-minute stress. **Important Carpooling Note** Drivers and passengers should stick with the arrangements they make. We **do not recommend swapping drivers or cars**after you’ve agreed on a ride. If you do decide to change, please make sure **all parties are clearly informed and agree** to avoid confusion. If a driver forgets, gets mixed up, or doesn’t pick you up, Wilderness Seekers Victoria (and your driver) are **not liable** for any inconvenience caused. For this reason, it is best to keep things simple with the driver you first arranged with. In the transport chat, drivers will share their preferred pick-up locations often major CBD train stations like Parliament, Richmond, South Yarra, Southern Cross, or North Melbourne. For this hike, **the nearest station to the trail are** [Bacchus Marsh](https://maps.app.goo.gl/pEJSLbEFqUHnkMPB6 "https://maps.app.goo.gl/pEJSLbEFqUHnkMPB6")[ ](https://maps.app.goo.gl/g6hs2T9Jotv3Jg6E6 "https://maps.app.goo.gl/g6hs2T9Jotv3Jg6E6")though drivers may choose whichever spot is most convenient for them. Passengers can then join from those locations. \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- ** Why Join?** Make new friends in a super easy, zero pressure way Enjoy nature and fresh air with great company Friendly vibes full of laughs, chats and good times guaranteed Your next hiking buddy might just become your next uni mate, housemate or travel buddy! \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- ️ **Tickets:** **All tickets are $20 per person.** This helps cover: * Public liability insurance * A $2.40 contribution per ticket directly to Parks Victoria * Experienced guides with a tour operator license who know the trails well * First aid kit and safety equipment for the group **Carpoolers Discount** If you’re driving and offer seats to passengers, your ticket is only **$5** . \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- ** What to Bring:** Comfy hiking shoes 2–3L of water Snacks/lunch ☀️ Sun protection (hat, sunnies, sunscreen) Bug spray (always a good idea) Optional: hiking poles, wet weather gear/raincoat \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **How It Works:** After purchasing your ticket, you’ll receive a link to our private Instagram group chat. All final details will be shared there: Hike route, meet-up location, and any last-minute updates. Friendly pace, friendly faces! This hike is intentionally slow–medium so everyone can enjoy and chat along the way. \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **Why Join Us?** Make new friends in a relaxed, casual way. Enjoy nature while meeting people your age. No pressure, just good vibes and real connections. You never know. Today’s hiking buddy could be tomorrow’s uni mate, flatmate, or travel buddy! Your safety is our priority. Equipped with a first aid kit on hand. \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- ️ **Food Arrangement** After our hike, we love keeping the good vibes rolling with a meal together. We’ll suggest a café or restaurant that’s usually on the way back toward the city so it’s easy for everyone and avoids extra driving. It’s always a highlight of the day swapping stories from the trail, sharing laughs, and getting to know your fellow hikers even better over some good food. Joining is optional, but most people stick around because it’s such a fun way to finish the adventure. Everyone just covers their own meal, and we’ll confirm the spot in the Instagram group chat on the day. When booking, you’ll be asked if you’d like to join: Yes / No / Not Sure. The organisers will confirm the restaurant or bar on the day, based on feedback. \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **⚠️ Important:** Must be 18+ years old to attend. Hike at your own risk. You are responsible for your own safety and belongings. Respectful, kind behaviour is a must. We are a positive and welcoming community. Zero tolerance for any unwelcome behaviour. We’re here to have fun, together! \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- ** Liability & Waiver** By joining this hike, you acknowledge that participation is voluntary and at your own risk. Wilderness Seekers Victoria is not liable for accidents, injuries, illnesses, theft, or transport-related issues. If you have previous injuries, medical conditions, or health concerns, discuss with the organiser before purchasing your ticket. Transport/carpooling is a community initiative only, not a service. Please make sure to read our [Terms & Conditions (click here)](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1tUzOL94hk5Uk5c7FOjiPRHXZz--5H9p5/view?usp=share_link "https://drive.google.com/file/d/1tUzOL94hk5Uk5c7FOjiPRHXZz--5H9p5/view?usp=share_link") before purchasing your ticket. \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **Refund Policy:** Tickets are non-refundable unless the hike is cancelled or rescheduled. Tickets cannot be transferred to other hike unless agreed with the organisers. \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- ** Rain Policy** If the forecast shows over 15 mm in 6 hours or 20+ mm during the day, we may postpone or adjust the hike to keep things safe and enjoyable. Slippery trails, flooding, and poor visibility are no fun or safe. We’ll also reschedule for thunderstorms or if trails are still soaked from heavy rain the days before. Light rain (under 5 mm/hour) is usually fine. We’ll check each hike case-by-case. Safety first If it changes and gets heavier, we’ll reschedule for the following Saturday, 15 March 2026 instead. \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- ** About Wilderness Seekers Victoria:** Wilderness Seekers Victoria was founded in 2023 with a simple mission: to bring people together through the beauty of nature. Since then, we’ve completed over 45 incredible hikes across Victoria, From coastal trails to mountain summits, we have explored the diverse landscapes Victoria has to offer, fostering connection, adventure, and a deep apreciation for the wild. We're excited to announce that fortnightly hikes have officially become part of our schedule! Every two weeks, we'll be exploring new locations, creating more opportunities for you to connect, adventure, and be part of a growing, supportive community. Whether you're an experienced hiker or just getting into the outdoors, Wilderness Seekers Victoria is a place where everyone is welcome. Come for the adventure, stay for the friendships. ✨ Follow us on Instagram for updates and upcoming hikes: [@wildseekvic](https://www.instagram.com/wildseekvic/?igsh=NHBmMmptZDJ2bDJ6&utm_source=qr "https://www.instagram.com/wildseekvic/?igsh=NHBmMmptZDJ2bDJ6&utm_source=qr") \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- ** Where Your Contribution Goes:** Advertising and outreach – helping us bring in new people on every event. $2.40 per person – paid directly to Parks Victoria as part of the per-day use fee. Public liability insurance – so we’re covered for safety and compliance. First aid kit supplies – keeping our hikes safe and prepared. Tour Operator Licence. Every ticket makes it possible to cover the essentials and keep creating safe, social, and welcoming outdoor adventures. \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- ** Organiser Contact:** We highly encourage you to text our organiser team before purchasing your ticket if you have any concerns about transport: Jacob [0404 870 123]() l Sebas [0435 993 237]() Ready to make friends, explore Melbourne’s beautiful nature, and have a blast? Spots are limited, so grab your ticket now and let's hike, laugh and connect!

This meeting will be an open discussion about the book "an Immense World" by Ed Yong

Join us as we get together to get together to help those in need at this CMG Gives Back event! For this event, we’ll help prepare food, serve meals, assist residents, wash dishes and clean surfaces at Fath Mission – Grant Kitchen. 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. 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 10:15am 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, indicated in the attached map. On-site and street parking are available in the surrounding area. Below are some links / attachments with additional info/details: \* LSS Volunteer Guidelines: Uploaded to photos. \* Parking Map Info: Uploaded to photos. \* LSS Faith Mission Orientation Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bp46_6ay6iA \* Link with Additional Details / Info: https://lss.vomo.org/opportunity/faith-mission-grant-kitchen-2025 IMPORTANT REMINDER: Our group will be providing the 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 update your RSVP no later than one week prior to the event. With very 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. THANK YOU: This CMG Gives Back event provides an opportunity for YOU to get involved in helping others! Benefits go well beyond the help we give to others. Volunteering provides a wide range of personal benefits, including positive effects on mental and physical health, reduced stress/depression/anxiety, increased happiness and improved purpose, life-satisfaction and personal well-being! Plus, the opportunity to get involved, connect with others and help those in need. PARTNER AGENCY: This event is hosted by Lutheran Social Services (LSS), which serves thousands of people in need each day in 27 Ohio counties by addressing the four core societal issues of food, shelter, safety and healing. LSS offers food through the LSS Food Pantries, housing and supportive services through LSS Faith Mission and LSS Faith Mission of Fairfield County homeless shelters, domestic violence services through LSS CHOICES for Victims of Domestic Violence, senior living and health care, affordable housing communities, and other services that uplift families and strengthen communities. Look forward to seeing you there, Dan

We’re heading to The Avenue Steak Tavern in Dublin, and yes… it’s as good as you’ve heard. I love the service. I love the atmosphere. I love that it feels fancy but still lets you laugh a little too loud. Come join us for great food, better conversation, and a night where nobody’s cooking or doing dishes. Show up hungry and ready to have a good time.

The Humanist Monthly Program is our longest running event and still a community favorite. In the old days it used to be called "Going to HCCO" and we still like to think of it as our flagship event. Food and drinks will be provided at the event. Feel free to show up a little bit early to hang out and talk. Our March speakers are Molly Gaines and Zack Parrish, co-organizers of the Secular Education Association: They will share their story of how a small group of Ohio parents grew into a national organization tracking released-time religious instruction and other church–state issues in public schools. The presentation will cover SEA’s early wins and hard lessons, what we’re seeing nationally right now, and how local advocates can play a meaningful role in protecting public education. Attendees will leave with a clearer understanding of the landscape — and practical ways to get involved. Going forward our meetings will be hybrid. You can meet us in-person or attend online Join Zoom Meeting [https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87836564953?pwd=4Mi57ElZkDIFlb1fnlNwOJ0NiOK4tP.1](https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87836564953?pwd=4Mi57ElZkDIFlb1fnlNwOJ0NiOK4tP.1) Meeting ID: 878 3656 4953 Passcode: 760812 One tap mobile +19292056099,,87836564953#,,,,\*760812# US (New York) +13017158592,,87836564953#,,,,\*760812# US (Washington DC) The formal presentation will start at noon

## Overview Networking event for aspiring school leaders interested in building their own high-quality K-12 public school in their community. **About the Event:** Aspiring school founders in the Columbus, OH, area are invited to join us for this special in-person networking event where you will be able to ask questions, learn more about the BES Fellowship and make sure you are prepared for the application process and beyond. In addition to meeting like-minded leaders who are also committed to transforming education and bringing a high-quality K-12 option to their community, you’ll have the opportunity to meet our team and gain special insights from Dr. Chaundria Smith, BES Senior Director of Fellowship Coaching, who works closely to support BES Fellows. During this event, you can also learn more about the various regions across Ohio we are prioritizing for the BES Fellowship to ensure that new schools will respond to the needs of their community. **About the BES Fellowship:** Leaders in the BES Fellowship embark on a multi-year process to design, found, and lead an excellent K-12 public school that reflects and responds to community needs. We are currently accepting applications to the 2026 BES Fellowship. The extended deadline is March 30, and the 2026 Cohort will begin August 2026. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until all spots are filled. Learn more at [bes.org/fellowship](http://bes.org/fellowship "http://bes.org/fellowship").

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.