Social Impact

\-\-\-\-\-\- [REGISTER FOR THE EVENT HERE (ON LUMA)!](https://luma.com/v5sqyt7p)[ ](https://luma.com/fnai8zxh)\-\-\-\-\-\- Join us for an evening of collaborative problem-solving as we work on a variety of civic tech projects together. Project needs vary but often include brainstorming, researching, writing, coding, or analyzing data. Check out [our website](https://www.civictechdc.org/projects) for a list of projects which may make an appearance! Meet other civic tech enthusiasts. Learn new skills. Contribute to a project to improve a local civic issue. **All are welcome and collaboration is encouraged.** Laptops are recommended but not required. **Where do I register?** To better serve our growing community, we’re transitioning our event registrations to Luma! **We still love Meetup** Meetup has been an incredible platform for us to build and connect with our community. We’ll continue sharing upcoming events there so that new people can find us, but Luma will be our primary registration platform moving forward. **Why we're making the switch** Meetup’s registration system has some limitations, and we need more flexibility to manage sign-ups and engagement. \-\-\-\-\-\- [REGISTER FOR THE EVENT HERE (ON LUMA)!](https://luma.com/v5sqyt7p) \-\-\-\-\-\-

This event is for volleyball beginners who want an opportunity to practice, play, and gain experience in a relaxed, low pressure environment. Whether you're trying volleyball for the first time or still developing confidence in the basics, you'll find this event welcoming, supportive, and beginner-friendly. **Level:** Beginners **Cost:** Free **Field Type:** Outdoor grass **Format:** 6x6 The focus will be on getting 3 touches on the ball, learning through play, and having fun with others who are also new to the game. Come enjoy some casual volleyball, meet new people, and have fun! **Where to find us:** Follow the trail and you will see an open grass field. Location pin- https://maps.app.goo.gl/apGAyMb7Urxxrdus9?g_st=ac **Smiley Social documents:** 1. [Group Rules](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1HrG35p_0M08leRvCp8XWG3CMkr_GL928XFabl5T6Dvg) 2. [Liability Waiver](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1W2mq-7m99lmvd7gdWYaSUFtvVg4UGnzV6koafAbHmco) 3. [Volleyball Levels](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1PojSi4qdlRsv1msCHhvpQ43iDc4FfzQwpWCc3kafVMY/)

This summer, federal and local officials have announced a new "Summer Surge" initiative that will increase law enforcement operations across Washington, DC. While presented as a response to public safety concerns, the initiative exposes a fundamental contradiction: communities facing disinvestment, unemployment, displacement, and unmet social needs are being met with increased policing rather than increased resources and democratic control over the conditions that shape their lives. This [Assata Shakur Popular Education (ASPE)](https://pacapower.org/our-work/programs/assg/ "https://pacapower.org/our-work/programs/assg/") session will examine the political context and implications of the newly announced Summer Surge. Together, we will discuss what genuine public safety looks like and how communities can build collective resistance and self-determination. *Food will be provided!* The ASPE are hybrid sessions with the option to participate via Zoom. **To join via Zoom use this link [https://tinyurl.com/africansstudy](https://tinyurl.com/africansstudy "https://tinyurl.com/africansstudy")**

**Trivia Night is Back!** Congratulations to our team last week at Celtic House (Fernando, Scott, Eileen and myself). We won first place so we are going back to Celtic House this week for Wednesday night trivia! The game starts later here, at 8:00 pm. Please arrive by 7:30. Right now we are planning on just one team. If we get enough signed up on the waitlist, we may open it up to two teams. **Please remember, if you sign up, we are counting on you to be part of the team!** If you realize you can’t make it, please change your rsvp early enough so someone on the waitlist can take your place. Spots are limited, we can only have 7 players. This is a great chance to connect, have some fun, and show off our smarts. Come for the fun, stay for the friendly competition- let's show everyone how SSB does trivia!

**☕ Welcome to the Kindness Cafe Crew! 🌟** Hey there, wonderful souls! We’re thrilled to announce the launch of our new meetup group: **Kindness Cafe Crew!** 🎉 Our mission? To gather amazing people like YOU to share life experiences, learn from one another, and sprinkle a little kindness into our lives! Join us at **Panera** for a cozy cup of coffee, delightful conversations, and a chance to connect with fellow kindness enthusiasts. Let’s create a warm space where we can get to know each other better while sharing stories and insights that help us grow. So, grab your favorite mug and come be part of our journey! We can’t wait to meet you and make some beautiful memories together! To find us, look for the steampunk hat on the table. **See you at the cafe! ❤️**

Last time we went to Hotel Heron, the roof was closed due to rain. It's supposed to be nice this Wednesday, so let's try again. **Location Info:** Good Fortune (Hotel Heron Rooftop) 699 Prince St. Alexandria, VA 22314 Rooftop Menu: [Good Fortune - Menu](chrome-extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://heronalexandria.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Good-Fortune-Menu_031026-3.pdf) In the unlikely event that it does rain Wednesday, we also have these other spots inside the hotel: **Kiln -** The bar/restaurant right inside the front door of Hotel Heron. Has wrap-around windows and a full view of Washington St. Happy Hour here is from 3-6pm, with a $20 Kiln Burger + Beer of Choice deal along with some other food/bev deals if you get there in time. Food and drink menus here: [Kiln - Menus](https://heronalexandria.com/dine/kiln/) **Francis Hall** \- the secret cocktail bar in the back hallway of the hotel\. From the entrance\, go up the steps past the hotel reception desk\, take a left and go down the hallway\. The entrance to the bar has a few lanterns sitting on the floor\, so you know which door it is\. **Francis Hall opens at 6pm, and are drinks only, so grab food on the roof or Kiln if you need a snack.** Francis Hall Cockail Menu here: [Francis Hall - Drinks](chrome-extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://heronalexandria.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Francis-Hall_Beverage-Book_051625.pdf) ### **🚇Transit:** Take the yellow or blue lines to King St. Metro, and then walk all the way down King St. It's about a 0.8mile walk, or you can wait for the King St. shuttle (looks like an old red trolley car). The trolley stops every 2 blocks, take it to either S. Columbus St. or S. St Asaph St. From there, walk to Washington St and take it 1 block south to the corner of Prince St. \#\#\# 🅿️**Parking:** Parking is metered on most blocks within Old Town, or have a 2 hour parking limit until 11pm. Be observant of permit parking only areas, or time limits, and your zone for ParkMobile if you're in a metered zone.

Please register for free on **[Eventbrite](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1991334226276?aff=oddtdtcreator)** so we have an accurate guest count. Help protect Democracy by volunteering. Join your friends at the [The Woman’s National Democratic Club](https://democraticwoman.org/welcome) (WNDC) for **Winning Wednesday**! We are laying the groundwork for huge wins this fall. We’ll be writing postcards to potential voters. Join us for camaraderie, door prizes, pizza and a cash bar as we work to get out the vote in key states. Plan to arrive promptly by 6:00 p.m. When you arrive, let the front desk attendant know you are there for **Winning Wednesday**. The WNDC is committed to creating a community and space where you can show up regularly with your friends and family members to take action to protect and expand democracy. Casual attire is fine. Feel free to invite all your friends to join you there. Go Gay DC is proudly boosting this activity. Go Gay DC is Metropolitan Washington, DC's inclusive LGBTQ+ community focused on friendship, leadership, and service. It now reaches over 10K fabulous people and is growing fast. Visit [http://www.gogaydc.com](http://www.gogaydc.com) **Metro Directions:** Be eco-friendly. Dupont Circle Metro station North exit on the Red line is the closest Metro stop. There's no need to print out and show your Eventbrite ticket. Please be sure to tag any event photos on social with #gogaydc This event is a safe, inclusive space for everyone under the rainbow. This event is for all ages. Remember to bring your ID, as everyone who wishes to drink alcohol at the bar is carded of course. Go Gay DC is on social media: Join the Facebook Group [https://www.facebook.com/groups/GoGayDC](https://www.facebook.com/groups/GoGayDC) Like the Facebook Page [https://www.facebook.com/GoGayDC](https://www.facebook.com/GoGayDC) Follow on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/GoGayDC](https://www.instagram.com/GoGayDC) Follow on Threads [https://www.threads.com/@GoGayDC](https://www.threads.com/@gogaydc) Follow on Bluesky [https://gogaydc.bsky.social/](https://gogaydc.bsky.social/) Follow on X [https://www.x.com/GoGayDC](https://www.x.com/GoGayDC) Watch on YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/GoGayDC](https://www.youtube.com/GoGayDC) LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/GoGayDC](https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/GoGayDC?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExZG1DTnM0VnJybG83U3FWcnNydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR765Xxf5t8wFzbCac74QNX3p0Bs2oT0drXZoOmLV63J8cURMl3ta5b8iP3ztg_aem_nSdndpxd5-hXJ8myNF2_vQ) Search tags: LGBT LGBTQ LGBTQI LQBTQIA Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender Queer Intersex non-binary women two-spirit

Come to MLK Library for a free, family-friendly afternoon of conversation, celebration, and really good food. We're inviting the whole area to join us in celebrating ourselves, our neighbors, and the things that make DC special. There will be games, giveaways, and a chance to make new connections at every level. Bring your hopes and dreams for the future of our city, and an open mind to learn from your neighbors. We hope to see you there.

The World Cup energy is HERE, and we’re getting together to cheer, celebrate, debate every referee decision, and become soccer experts for 90 minutes. Join Bethesda Social Club at Sports and Social for an exciting World Cup Watch Party as USA takes on TURKIYE in a Group Stage showdown! You do NOT need to be a die-hard soccer fan to enjoy this event. If you like great people, good food, cold drinks, and the electric atmosphere that only the World Cup can create, this is the place to be. We’ll be enjoying: 🍺 Drinks and game-day specials 🍔 Great food and snacks ⚽ The World Cup match on big screens 🎉 Fun, welcoming social vibes 🙌 A great night out with fellow Bethesda Social Club members Here’s the specials: $4 Domestic Drafts $5 House Wines $6 Call Cocktails: Smirnoff & Smirnoff Flavors, Dulce Vida, Tanqueray, Kentucky Gentleman, Malibu & MORE $7 Crush Cocktails 50% off the following appetizers: Signature Fries Giant Pretzel Loaded Nachos Boneless Wings Come for the soccer. Come for the social atmosphere. Come because World Cup matches are always more fun with a crowd. Wear your favorite team’s colors if you want, bring your friends, and join us for a relaxed, energetic, and memorable World Cup night at Sports and Social. Parking Info: Free for the 1st 2 hours $3 for 4 Hours $4 for 5 Hours The venue is close to the North Bethesda Metro station. Take the Red Line, exit at the North Bethesda Metro stop and walk 6 minutes. See you there! ⚽

The World Cup energy is HERE, and we’re getting together to cheer, celebrate, debate every referee decision, and become soccer experts for 90 minutes. Join Social Sips and Bites at Sports and Social for an exciting World Cup Watch Party as USA takes on TURKIYE in a Group Stage showdown! You do NOT need to be a die-hard soccer fan to enjoy this event. If you like great people, good food, cold drinks, and the electric atmosphere that only the World Cup can create, this is the place to be. We’ll be enjoying: 🍺 Drinks and game-day specials 🍔 Great food and snacks ⚽ The World Cup match on big screens 🎉 Fun, welcoming social vibes 🙌 A great night out with fellow Bethesda Social Club members Here’s the specials: $4 Domestic Drafts $5 House Wines $6 Call Cocktails: Smirnoff & Smirnoff Flavors, Dulce Vida, Tanqueray, Kentucky Gentleman, Malibu & MORE $7 Crush Cocktails 50% off the following appetizers: Signature Fries Giant Pretzel Loaded Nachos Boneless Wings Come for the soccer. Come for the social atmosphere. Come because World Cup matches are always more fun with a crowd. Throw on your favorite jersey (or team colors), grab your friends, and join us for a relaxed, high-energy, and memorable night out. Parking Info: Free for the 1st 2 hours $3 for 4 Hours $4 for 5 Hours The venue is close to the North Bethesda Metro station. Take the Red Line, exit at the North Bethesda Metro stop and walk 6 minutes. See you there! ⚽

**YES! YES!! YES!!!** **FREE HUGS on the National Mall are happening again!!** **"Spreading More Love"** Here are two videos of past FREE HUGS gatherings: [FREE HUGS October 2017. 32 sec.](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jh7v3zucDas) [FREE HUGS Veterans Day 2016. 58 sec.](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ebTt9Q177zQ) **HEY EVERYONE!** Now that the Flu, COVID and RSV have subsided, we are **RESUMING OUR MONTHLY FREE HUGS GATHERINGS!!** FREE HUGS gatherings generate so much excitement, joy, appreciation, connection, peace, love, smiles, “Thank you’s,” lots of laughter and such positive energy!! Our FREE HUGS movement is all about "Spreading More Love" regardless of political, religious, racial or gender identification or any other identification. **!! IMPORTANT !!** We meet OUTSIDE of the National Museum of Natural History on the NATIONAL MALL SIDE OF THE MUSEUM near the Refreshment stand. ADDRESS: 1306 Madison Dr. NW · Washington, DC **PARKING:** On the street parking OR [Nearest Parking](https://washingtondc.bestparking.com/destinations/national-mall-parking) **METRO:** Smithsonian National Mall Metro Station (NOT Independence Ave.) **We hope you will join us for an AWESOME time!** **Lots of Hugs...jeff** 301-885-8259 (c) \*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\* Note 1: if you agree to participate in any FREE HUGS Event, you agree to the following terms: By choosing to attend this event, you are acknowledging the risks involved (COVID, etc.), and you are committing to participate nonviolently and in accordance with the law. You agree: (i) not to engage in any act of violence or violation of any applicable law (ii) to obey the orders of authorized event marshals and law enforcement authorities (iii) that any Meetup group will not be responsible to any injury or damage to your person or property resulting from or occurring in the course of your participating in the Event; and iv) to release and forever hold harmless Jeff Maurer, Meetup group and their respective employees and volunteers from liability for any such injury or damage. Note 2: FREE HUGS gatherings are 1. NOT for advertising our businesses; 2. NOT about promoting political or religious or racial or gender issues or any other issues.

Greetings, Let's meet again for another Last Saturday of the Month dinner discussion (at 12 Stories Hip Hop & R&B Lounge at the Wharf DC) centered on community service, leadership, and advocacy. If you are a reader, writer, speaker, and/or change agent and would like to connect with others dedicated to personal development and community projects feel free to RSVP for this interest meeting. Meeting inclusive to all to include those of different backgrounds and ethnicities. If there are any questions, suggestions, recommendations (e.g., alternative meeting times and locations) regarding this meeting please do not hesitate to reach out via meet-up message or phone at any time. There will also be an opportunity to explore existing alternative locations and to create a vetted invitation-based gender balanced inclusive guest list/playlist for future Last Saturday of the Month community service, advocacy, discussion dinners, thank you. Alicia (202) 627-0361 Sunday June 21st, 2026 4:30pm

• What we'll do On https://blackecon101.podbean.com/ Thursdays at 6 pm. discussing the economy....

• What we'll do We plan on meeting at Grace Presbyterian Church at 9:30 AM on Saturday to assemble care packages and help people who have very little and help them survive. This would be a great time to bring a friend or your children to do something good for humanity. After we assemble the 120 backpack care packages, we plan to have coffee and snacks, socialize and then drive to DC to distribute the backpacks. If you choose to go with us, we'll return about 1:00 pm. Looking forward to seeing you all at the Meetup. • How can you help? \- You can contribute money\. Make checks out to Grace Presbyterian Church\, marked for Help the Homeless and mail to David Retherford\, Grace Presbyterian Church\, 7434 Bath Street\, Springfield\, VA 22150 or bring the money to the Meetup and put it in the basket there or give it to me\. \- Winter items: coats\, jackets\, sweaters\, gloves\, scarves\, thermal socks \- You can also donate clothes and personal care articles at the Meetup or during the week\. Just leave them on the stage\. \- Clothing \(New or gently used\) \- Men and Women socks \- Men and Women underwear \- Men and Women shirts \- Men and Women pants \- Anything to keep warm and dry\!\!\!\! Other Items: -Backpacks (new or gently used) -Roll of duct tape • What to bring A willing attitude and if it’s cold, some warm clothes. • Important to know \- All are welcome\! The Handicap entrance is through the Tower door \(Door 2\) in front\. \- All others can enter at the North parking lot\. \- If you are looking for something eventful to do on Sunday\, check out the services at Grace\. \- We’ll tell you about any other Grace volunteer opportunities at the Meetup [https://www.gracepresby.org/](https://www.gracepresby.org/)

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. NOTE: We’re switching it up this time and going with a DINNER shift on Mon, 7/6. 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 DINNER from 4:30 to 6:30pm and have space for a total of 7 volunteers. Please arrive at 4:20pm 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 are 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 those volunteering at this (or any of our previous or future) CMG Gives Back events! Look forward to seeing you there, Dan

Come attend a free in-person seminar where you will find out why you: -Feel isolated -Can't express yourself openly -Get nervous or anxious in front of people -Run out of things to say or feel tongue-tied -Feel introverted -Don't feel comfortable in any social setting -Can't make more friends -Are shy and miss opportunities to connect in a meaningful way And we cover what you can do about any one, some or all of the above. This seminar is the weapon against loneliness, isolation and boredom, come join us! COME TO THIS SEMINAR AND LEARN THE SECRETS TODAY This seminar is brought to you by the Dianetics & Scientology Life Improvement Center. 1266 Dublin Road, Columbus, Ohio 43215

Happy Hour on the Green ⛳ Join Black Love & Friends for a laid-back evening at Topgolf as we celebrate the fathers, father figures, brothers, uncles, mentors, friends, and positive male role models who enrich our lives and communities. This isn't a golf tournament—it's a social gathering designed to bring great people together for conversation, connection, laughter, food, drinks, and a little friendly competition. Whether you're a father, celebrating a father, bringing your brother, cousin, friend, or simply looking for a fun Saturday evening, you're welcome to join us. No golf experience is necessary. Come for the happy hour, stay for the company. Expect: • Topgolf games for all skill levels • Food and drinks available for purchase • Networking and socializing • Great music and positive vibes • A welcoming atmosphere for singles, couples, and friends Bring someone special or come solo and meet new people. Let's raise a glass to the men who lead, support, inspire, and show up for the people they love.

Whether you've never done improv before, or you've done it for so long you were quoted in *Truth in Comedy*, or anywhere in between, come join us! Swing by *Gresso's* for the **Columbus Improv Comedy Meetup**! The idea behind improvised comedy is to create entire scenes from scratch. A suggestion is taken from the audience and laughter is built on the spot. This can be done in game form, like *Whose Line Is It Anyway, Make Some Noise,* or *Wild 'n Out*; it can also be done in a longer way, to tell a complicated story, like *TJ & Dave*. Our meetup, which is central Ohio's longest running (and FREE!) weekly comedy event, brings the games for you to play in a safe, supportive, and compassionate environment. Afterward, many members will hang out in *Gresso's* itself and get to know each other. Not only is this a lot of fun, but you get to work on thinking faster on your feet, your public speaking, plus it's an excellent way to meet new people and build relationships that will last a lifetime, and you do that while laughing your butt off! Ask yourself if you want to join the **Columbus Improv Comedy Meetup**, and say "*Yes, And*" that you'll have a blast!

Open Shelter has teamed up again with Red White and Boom! Friday, July 3rd & we are looking for volunteers to run the event’s alcohol booths. Proceeds from sales go to the Open Shelter’s organization. There are two available shifts: 12-6p & 5-11p. There will be an ipad-like device to process transactions in addition to cash. Everything will be in bottles or cans, so transactions should be very easy. Must be 21+. There are multiple beverage stations along the Civic Center Bridge. The stations are covered and also have beverage trucks next to them, so volunteers can cool off in the trucks. As far as parking, it is suggested those who are coming from the east use the Columbus Commons Garage, and those from the west use the Belle Street Garage. Harry from the Open Shelter will be your contact. (614)562-2169 mailto:harry@theopenshelter.org More information about the event: https://redwhiteandboom.org/ More information about the organization: https://theopenshelter.org/

Whether you're a big baseball fan or not, you might like the social twist we put on a Clippers game! $5.00 Fridays: Select small beers are $5! They also have your favorite hard seltzers and wine. **PREGAME**: Meet at ***Barley's Brewing on 467 N High Street***, just a few blocks east of the ballpark. **HAPPY HOUR** is 4-7pm with pregame specials and $4 pints! *At 7pm, we'll walk from Barleys to Huntington Field.* **TICKETS**: $10.00 at gate, purchase **STANDING ROOM ONLY**. **MEETUP**: We'll be near the Right Field bar stools/picnic tables. **RAIN?** Unless it's a thunderstorm or heavy rain, they play. We have a nearby plan B, indoors at Grandview Yard, if raining. **PARKING**: The garages near Nationwide will be busy with concert goers. *Find space in lots next to the ballpark (along W Nationwide Blvd) and near Crew Stadium. Short walk.* SRO (standing room only). These are the cheapest seats to purchase. WE WILL NOT BE STANDING much at all. The areas we land on have bar stools or picnic tables. There are also plenty of "lean on" along the first and third base line. Play ball!

Our next much-awaited **COLUMBUS** meetup is **Tuesday June 30th from 7-10 pm EST at ACE OF CUPS**. Meet patients, cultivators, processors, dispensary managers/staff, physicians, home growers, educators, activists, nonprofits, artists, attorneys, business owners, writers, students, and supporters to network, share our knowledge, collaborate, support each other and make new ones! Hope you will be there too! Save the date and pass the word. **Please RSVP** so we know who is coming and how many to expect. Find us to say hi and we will introduce you to others. We should be easy to spot. (The happy-looking group wearing cool nametags! See photos from our past events.) Sign in, grab a name tag, start your own bar/food tab, meet old friends and make new ones! Everyone is welcome. SEE YOU THERE!