Community Calendar

Give Hope


The YMCA's annual Give Hope event is right around the corner. This empowering event raises funds for women, men, and families experiencing homelessness.

Giving hope comes in many different ways, like an apartment down payment, a ticket to travel to family out of town, or the fee to obtain a birth certificate. Join us as we bring our voices together to support a worthy cause.

2023 Healthcare Justice Awards

History of Healthcare Justice Awards

PrimaryOne Health annually recognizes an individual or a partner organization/agency who embodies the traits of an advocate for healthcare justice—dedication, determination, leadership, and courage. This award was established to celebrate individuals and partners in our community who work to:

• Expand access to healthcare & wellness services;
• Eliminate health disparities and promote healthcare justice;
• Promote cultural & linguistic competence in healthcare; and/or
• Break down cultural & social barriers to quality healthcare.

Our Beneficiary

Our beneficiary for the 9th Annual Healthcare Justice Awards is the Healthcare Justice Scholarship Fund. Started in 2021 at the Columbus Foundation, the Healthcare Justice Scholarship benefits racial, ethnic, and cultural underrepresented populations pursuing careers in healthcare. The scholarship fund will increase opportunities; educate, train, and employ more diverse individuals; and allow for more diverse perspectives in the healthcare field.

PrimaryOne Health’s focus is identifying and educating current and future health professionals from diverse backgrounds. Over $150,000 has been raised for the scholarship fund since its inception two years ago. Further questions about the scholarship may be directed to Susan Brewer at susan.brewer@primaryonehealth.org.

Ohio Women's Alliance Action Fund and Motherful Get Out the Vote 

Ohio Women’s Alliance Action Fund (OWA+AF), New Voices for Reproductive Justice (NVRJ), and Motherful Columbus are joining together to launch OH YES Reproductive Justice Blitz to build community and mobilize Black voters around voting YES on Issue 1 for Reproductive Freedom! 

We will hear from different guest speakers, create voting plans, and have options to do some direct action. Come out and join us for food, music, fun, and community! All are welcome. Please bring your family, friends, and neighbors.

MY Project USA 9th Annual Banquet

Join the MY Project USA team on Saturday, Nov. 4 for our ninth annual banquet. It will be held at the Ohio Union (1739 N. High St. Columbus, OH 43210) on the campus of The Ohio State University.

This fundraising event will go toward supporting MY Project USA’s programs that protect and empower youth and families on the westside of Columbus. We will be joined by several elected officials, interfaith and community leaders and – of course – our young people. MY Project USA will also hand out its annual MY Deah’s & Chrys Gee Awards.

Thanksgiving Food Drive

Help OhioGuidestone make Thanksgiving brighter for the families we serve! From November 7 - November 17, 2023, we will be collecting nonperishable food items for our families in need. 

Nonperishable food donations can be accepted at the OhioGuidestone Columbus office, Monday - Friday from 9 am-3 pm from November 7th - November 17th, 2023.

CND Ribbon Cutting Ceremony

We are grateful to have the following individuals speaking at the ceremony:

• City Council President Shannon Hardin
• City Council member Nick Bankston
• City Council member Emmanuel Remy
• State Representative Latyna Humphrey
• City Attorney Zach Klein
• VP Clinical Services for ADAMH, Sue Villilo
• Bishop Timothy J. Clarke
• Columbus Chamber president Don DePerro

The Dash for Camp 5K

Start training now for The Dash For Camp supporting Camp Hamwi and the youth & family programs of the Central Ohio Diabetes Association!

Columbus Cranksgiving
 
Cranksgiving is a free event for anyone with a bike and a desire to do good. Show up on two wheels, and we’ll hand you a list of Thanksgiving food items to purchase. You'll then ride to local grocery stores, buy whatever you'd like to donate, and carry it by bike back to the food pantry.

LC Table Talks

Leadership Columbus is excited to launch LC Table Talks, monthly, virtual, one-hour seminar series where Columbus’s top leaders and subject matter experts join us to share their stories, knowledge, and expertise about topics relevant to our Columbus community. 

Guest: Oyauma Garrison President & Chief Executive Officer, Maryhaven

Wear Green for Huckleberry House and National Runaway Prevention Month


It is National Runaway Prevention Month and green is the color of November. Wear green on November 15th and post on your social media using the hashtags: #huckleberryhouse #NRPM #shinealight.

November Green Drinks - Holiday Market

Our curated market features a delightful selection of sustainable and upcycled treasures from diverse, minority, and women-owned businesses. Shop with a purpose and explore unique, planet-friendly gifts that bring joy to your loved ones while caring for our environment. Make this holiday season special with gifts that make a difference. Open to the public. 21+ to purchase alcohol

Fall Season Celebratory 5K

Each season comes to an end with a celebratory 5K. This closing event gives program participants of all abilities a tangible sense of accomplishment. Crossing the finish line instills confidence through completion and is a joyful moment program participants always remember! Everyone in our program receives a commemorative medal to celebrate this incredible achievement.

Thanksgiving Market

Highland Youth Garden's Thanksgiving Market is an opportunity for our Hilltop community to get stocked on fresh veggies and shelf-stable goods to plan their holiday meal. The community is also invited to donate uncut produce, shelf-stable good, books, and new toiletries to contribute to this effort.

Donations need to be pre-registered using this link.

Connect the Connector Session

South Side civic leaders and non-profit partners are invited to learn about local resources for children and youth. These sessions educate you on available resources and how to make referrals. 

Presenters include: 

• Boys and Girls Club
• Stowe Mission
• Barack Recreation Center
• Driving Park Recreation Center

Thanksgiving Food Drive


We're hosting a Thanksgiving food drive for the families on the Near East side. We're recruiting orgs and individuals to host canned/boxed food drives within their circles to help us build the meal boxes. Assembly will take place on November 21.

Gift Cards for Purchasing Protein

• Dressing/Stuffing Mix (Box)
• Gravy (Jar)
• Box of Potatoes
• Canned Vegetables (green beans or corn)
• Canned Yams
• Cornbread Mix
• Mac & Cheese (Box)
• Cake Mix & Frosting
• Cranberry Sauce (Can or Jar)

Upper Cup Chess Open Community Play on every 2nd and 4th Sunday, from 4-8pm at 80 Parsons Ave

Come play chess at the Cooperative Chess Cultural Center (4C - "The Fork"). All skill levels are desired and everyone takes home an "L". Whether that is a lesson or loss, come connect with community. Good vibes only. 

Free to participate, but donations are appreciated. This space and experience is designed for ALL curious chess explorers, whether someone has never played or if someone has played their whole life!

This event is hosted by the Royal Oak Initiative. 

Give Your Mind A Rest

This Giving Tuesday take some time out of the hustle and give your mind a rest. This will be 30 minutes of guided relaxation and mindfulness that you can use any where. Use your lunch break to practice rest!

MAD Friendsgiving Popup Event

A celebration of community and giving Tuesday, and an opportunity for outreach and volunteering.\

Our mission: empowering the impoverished through inclusive community events, acts of kindness, outreach, advocacy, and educational awareness.

The Push

Communities in Schools of Ohio would like to invite you to join us at an upcoming event. On Giving Tuesday, November 28^th, we will be screening a short documentary filmed by our CIS National Office, called The Push.  The 22-minute documentary follows a CIS School Site Coordinator and does a real-life display of the work that we do and the students and families that we serve.  After the film, there will be a panel discussion to talk about the needs that students and families have and why the work of CIS of so important.   

Please RSVP via Eventbrite if you would like to attend.  We hope that you will join us. 

Included: Real-Life Lessons for Deconstructing Exclusionary Communities

Researcher and author Richard Kahlenberg, who interviewed the families of Move to PROSPER - now known as Families Flourish - in 2020 about their experiences in the program, has now turned his research into the book “Excluded.”

On Nov. 30 at 6:30 p.m. Families Flourish partners with CCAD to feature Kahlenberg with panelists Kumi Walker and Doug Ulman, who grew up together in Columbia, MD, a city designed to resist segregation.

Community Night

Parson's North hosts their Community where 10% of sales will be given back to Star House to help with our mission to lift youth out of homelessness and into a community of hope.

Paint the City Red

Please join PrimaryOne Health and other organizations, and a stand to paint the city, Red, and remember and commit to combat the stigma of HIV.

Winter Open House

This is an all ages, free event, with opportunities for families, new youth, and community to see our Drop-in Center and brand new Wellness Center! Plus, connect with our staff and board members, learn about KYC's programs and services, enjoy some favorite seasonal refreshments, and participate in our Holiday Wish Tree, where you can support LGBTQIA+ youth this holiday season!

Love Yourself Day

This is a day full of exciting activities and presentations designed for girls 12-19 years to experience skills and tools to support their mental and emotional health especially during the holidays.

Free Admission; Space is limited; Girls ages 12-19years;

Women of Color Owned(WoCO)Holiday Market!

This holiday season, we're shining the spotlight on some of the dopest women of color artisans in Columbus! Hosted by Zora’s House and sponsored by JP Morgan Chase, our annual Women Of Color Owned (WoCO) Holiday Market will feature products created by women of color artists and entrepreneurs. From jewelry to candles to clothing and everything in between!

Light Up the House

This annual holiday celebration shines a light on at-risk and homeless youth in our community. Our Teen Crisis Shelter will light the night sky as it continues to be a beacon for youth and families and crisis in our community. Please join us for hot cocoa and cookies, some holiday music, and some great fellowship with supporters and friends of Huckleberry House.

Maryhaven Winter Apparel Drive

Support Maryhaven clients and families stay warm this winter by donating new or gently-used coats, hats, scarves, gloves, and socks. Contact welkins@maryhaven.com with questions and for more details. 

Bakes and Brews Fundraiser

We are so excited to share our up-coming fundraiser Seventh Son Brewing! Help support older adults in our community, and please spread the word! Bring friends!

CRC Chili Cook-Off at Combustion Brewing

Bring your best chili recipe to compete and vote with your dollars on your favorite chili. Tasting is free and all proceeds benefit CRC. Register to compete at Combustion by asking a bartender for the sign up sheet 

Holiday Treat Assembly and Food Drive with Broad Street Food Pantry

Children ages 2-12 will learn about food insecurity and assemble holiday treat-making kits with cards for clients at Broad Street Food Pantry. All supplies will be provided. Families are asked to collect food donations ahead of time and then bring them to the Broad Street Food Pantry on the day of the event. We will provide a flyer in your confirmation email to help your child conduct their own neighborhood food drive if you choose.

Holiday Magic

This holiday season, we are proud to recognize and thank our volunteers, supporters, and partners who donate their time and talents to others. We invite you to join us for hors d’oeuvres and drinks as we honor individuals in our community who are making a difference.

Please RSVP by November 29 for planning purposes. If you’d like, please bring or send an unwrapped gift for the patients of Twin Valley Behavioral Healthcare (details below)

Free CEU Training: Understanding Toxic Stress

During this OhioGuidestone workshop, we will provide an applied overview of the science behind trauma and toxic stress, discuss the importance of reducing mental health stigma, and collaborate with attendees to develop strategies aimed at raising awareness of mental health needs. This CEU covers C, SW, and MFT.

Event registration is free. Please RSVP to Derek Rader, Community & Campus Outreach Coordinator, at Derek.Rader@OhioGuidestone.org.

Holiday Open House

Holiday Open House celebrating the amazing work of CLC. Plan to enjoy appetizers and festive drinks while learning about amazing achievements and celebrating the holiday season.

CRC Holiday Fundraiser at Studio 35

A movie screening of "How the Grinch Stole Christmas," plus heavy hors d’oeuvres, Beer Tasting (other options available), Live Holiday Jazz, Movie Screening, Wine Pull, & Silent Auction.

SVFS Adopt A Family

Be a holiday helper for families and children in need! We match donors with SVFS families in need, to provide holiday gifts for children who otherwise would not receive any.

Donors shop, wrap, and then drop gifts off to SVFS! Fill out this survey to tell us how many children you would like to adopt, and we will match you with a child in need. Donors typically expect to spend about $100 per child. 

Reindeer Run 5K

Get ready to walk, run, or jog alongside your favorite animals, see the spectacular Wildlights display along the course, admire the NC4K Hero mile, and raise funds to support our pediatric cancer community!

Rocking Together Holiday Edition

Children ages 2-12 are invited to dress in holiday costume and make music and seasonal crafts to brighten the days of residents at Harmony Trace.

Holiday Toy Drive

Gifts received through the Holiday Toy Drive will be handed out at DSACO's annual holiday party on December 9th. Last day to order gifts for the Toy Drive is December 7th. Gifts can be purchased directly from the Amazon Wishlist provided and shipped directly to the DSACO office. Donated gifts will help spread holiday cheer for people with Down syndrome and their siblings. 

Holiday Cookie Drive

Donate a dozen or more holiday cookies and help make the holidays just a bit sweeter for the young people Huckleberry House serves.

Maryhaven Winter Apparel Drive

Support Maryhaven clients and families stay warm this winter by donating new or gently-used coats, hats, scarves, gloves, and socks. Contact welkins@maryhaven.com with questions and for more details.

Holiday Wish List

Help Huckleberry House ensure the young people we serve have a BRIGHT and happy holiday - sign up for the Holiday Gift Drive today!

2023 Holiday Experience


Keep families housed through the holidays! Imagine the added stress of trying to manage a housing or financial crisis. HFF families and staff work diligently to shield Columbus families and children from eviction, from entering a shelter, and especially from becoming homeless. You can make a difference in their lives this holiday season by sponsoring a family, hosting a toy drive, shopping for items on our Amazon Wishlist, volunteering, and the ever-important monetary donations.

Please contact Jeanette Moore (jmoore@homeforfamilies.org) for the most up-to-date needs of our families and to learn how your donation can be most impactful.

JustChristmas

We are hosting our first JustChristmas with a goal of raising $2,500 in gift cards for JustChoice families in need. So far, we have 12 families signed up to be loved on and we would like to fill them up! It might be just Christmas - but for the pregnant people and the people parenting on the margins it is our chance to bring them real joy.

Gift cards include Walmart, Kroger, Meijer, Target, or Amazon. Gift cards can be picked up by our staff or can be sent / dropped off to the YWCA Columbus anytime in December starting 12/4. Also, virtual gift cards can be sent to emma@justchoice.org!

Adopt-a-Resident

Once again, we are matching donors with children at the YWCA Family Center and residents in YWCA Columbus’ Women’s Residency program to spread a little cheer this holiday season. You can put a smile on a resident or child’s face by donating a gift for them to unwrap this December.

Register at https://www.ywcacolumbus.org/adopt-a-resident/ to receive a wish list from a child or resident.

Cozy-Up Coat Drive

The spirit of giving is in the air, and we here at Student
Success Stores are excited to provide the opportunity to
support a student through purchasing a winter-bundle. A
$50 donation will allow you to provide a winter coat,
hat, and gloves to a student in need to keep them warm
for the winter.

Upper Cup Chess Open Community Play on every 2nd and 4th Sunday, from 4-8pm at 80 Parsons Ave

Come play chess at the Cooperative Chess Cultural Center (4C - "The Fork"). All skill levels are desired and everyone takes home an "L". Whether that is a lesson or loss, come connect with community. Good vibes only. 

Free to participate, but donations are appreciated. This space and experience is designed for ALL curious chess explorers, whether someone has never played or if someone has played their whole life!

This event is hosted by the Royal Oak Initiative. 

Holiday Drive

Holiday Drive to raise funds for Hospitality Industry workers during the season that they work the hardest.

Rooted in Reeb Celebration

Come join us at The Reeb Center for an unforgettable event! Rooted in Reeb is the first of its kind, donor appreciation event to celebrate our generous supporters. Get ready to immerse yourself in a night filled with music, food, and fun!

Learning Through a Lifetime Gala

Join Columbus Early Learning Centers to celebrate 137 years of early education and affordable child care! This annual event raises funds for scholarships and wraparound services for the city's youngest children. Fabulous food, drinks, silent auction and recognition awards for those making a difference for local families.

Individual Tickets for $150. Sponsorships $500-$10,000. To sponsor, email Jocelyn: jprobasco@columbusearlylearning.org

Columbus Early Learning Centers has been serving families with young children since 1887. We not only provide subsidized and affordable child care so parents can work, we help young children develop and learn so they can be ready for success in school and in life. Your support is highly effective in helping children born into poverty to overcome harmful disparities.

Upper Cup Chess Open Community Play on every 2nd and 4th Sunday, from 4-8pm at 80 Parsons Ave

Come play chess at the Cooperative Chess Cultural Center (4C - "The Fork"). All skill levels are desired and everyone takes home an "L". Whether that is a lesson or loss, come connect with community. Good vibes only. 

Free to participate, but donations are appreciated. This space and experience is designed for ALL curious chess explorers, whether someone has never played or if someone has played their whole life!

This event is hosted by the Royal Oak Initiative. 

Sneaker Soiree

Sneaker Soiree is the most comfortable party in town! Come in your cocktail attire and your favorite sneakers! The evening begins with a cocktail party, followed by a fitness wear fashion show of local celebrities, and ends with a dance par-TAY!All proceeds benefit Girls on the Run of Central Ohio, a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization dedicated to creating a world where every girl knows and activates her limitless potential and is free to boldly pursue her dreams.

Upper Cup Chess Open Community Play on every 2nd and 4th Sunday, from 4-8pm at 80 Parsons Ave

Come play chess at the Cooperative Chess Cultural Center (4C - "The Fork"). All skill levels are desired and everyone takes home an "L". Whether that is a lesson or loss, come connect with community. Good vibes only. 

Free to participate, but donations are appreciated. This space and experience is designed for ALL curious chess explorers, whether someone has never played or if someone has played their whole life!

This event is hosted by the Royal Oak Initiative. 

Upper Cup Chess Open Community Play on every 2nd and 4th Sunday, from 4-8pm at 80 Parsons Ave

Come play chess at the Cooperative Chess Cultural Center (4C - "The Fork"). All skill levels are desired and everyone takes home an "L". Whether that is a lesson or loss, come connect with community. Good vibes only. 

Free to participate, but donations are appreciated. This space and experience is designed for ALL curious chess explorers, whether someone has never played or if someone has played their whole life!

This event is hosted by the Royal Oak Initiative. 

The Netcare Foundation invites you to join us on Wednesday, April 3, 2024 at Topgolf Columbus, an indoor/outdoor golf experience unlike any other! It’s hours of fun for all ages and skill levels.

Bring your clubs or use those provided- no special equipment needed.

Registration includes 3 hours of game play for up to 6 and 2 social passes for non-golfers, food, and beverages (unlimited non-alcoholic and 1 alcoholic drink ticket per guest).

Register Here: https://www.netcareaccess.org/about/netcare-foundation/netcare-foundation-spring-swing-against-stigma/

Proceeds from this experience support programs, services, staff, and clients of Netcare Access. Items purchased in 2023 with Foundation funds included art supplies, books, magazines, and winter weather clothing for at-risk clients. We also undertook employee appreciation events, scholarship opportunities, and to make safety and aesthetic improvements to our facilities.

Registration and Kick-off of Sleep Out 2024

Come to lower.com field, register for Sleep Out, meet other participants and learn about Huckleberry House programs and events.

Funds raised at Sleep Out support Huckleberry House's programs and services as well as our mission: With hope, we shelter, support, and guide youth navigating challenges.

Annual Earth Day Columbus Celebration

Upper Cup Chess Open Community Play on every 2nd and 4th Sunday, from 4-8pm at 80 Parsons Ave

Come play chess at the Cooperative Chess Cultural Center (4C - "The Fork"). All skill levels are desired and everyone takes home an "L". Whether that is a lesson or loss, come connect with community. Good vibes only. 

Free to participate, but donations are appreciated. This space and experience is designed for ALL curious chess explorers, whether someone has never played or if someone has played their whole life!

This event is hosted by the Royal Oak Initiative. 

Garden Party

Join us for an evening in our healing garden, where you can learn more about our organization. Mingle with dedicated Netcare staff and board members, as we share our mission, achievements, and the collective vision that unites us in making a positive impact.

By invitation only.

Ohio Black Family Summit

For sponsorships and inquiries, contact Summit2024@ROOTTRJ.org.

Ohio Black Family Summit

For sponsorships and inquiries, contact Summit2024@ROOTTRJ.org.

Upper Cup Chess Open Community Play on every 2nd and 4th Sunday, from 4-8pm at 80 Parsons Ave

Come play chess at the Cooperative Chess Cultural Center (4C - "The Fork"). All skill levels are desired and everyone takes home an "L". Whether that is a lesson or loss, come connect with community. Good vibes only. 

Free to participate, but donations are appreciated. This space and experience is designed for ALL curious chess explorers, whether someone has never played or if someone has played their whole life!

This event is hosted by the Royal Oak Initiative. 

Sleep Out


Help us shine a light on youth homelessness in Columbus and Sleep Out in solidarity with the young people we serve.

Funds raised at Sleep Out support the programs and services of Huckleberry House, as well as our mission: With hope, we shelter, support, and guide youth navigating challenges.

2nd Annual Well-Being in Schools Conference

Upper Cup Chess Open Community Play on every 2nd and 4th Sunday, from 4-8pm at 80 Parsons Ave

Come play chess at the Cooperative Chess Cultural Center (4C - "The Fork"). All skill levels are desired and everyone takes home an "L". Whether that is a lesson or loss, come connect with community. Good vibes only. 

Free to participate, but donations are appreciated. This space and experience is designed for ALL curious chess explorers, whether someone has never played or if someone has played their whole life!

This event is hosted by the Royal Oak Initiative. 

Upper Cup Chess Open Community Play on every 2nd and 4th Sunday, from 4-8pm at 80 Parsons Ave

Come play chess at the Cooperative Chess Cultural Center (4C - "The Fork"). All skill levels are desired and everyone takes home an "L". Whether that is a lesson or loss, come connect with community. Good vibes only. 

Free to participate, but donations are appreciated. This space and experience is designed for ALL curious chess explorers, whether someone has never played or if someone has played their whole life!

This event is hosted by the Royal Oak Initiative. 

Upper Cup Chess Open Community Play on every 2nd and 4th Sunday, from 4-8pm at 80 Parsons Ave

Come play chess at the Cooperative Chess Cultural Center (4C - "The Fork"). All skill levels are desired and everyone takes home an "L". Whether that is a lesson or loss, come connect with community. Good vibes only. 

Free to participate, but donations are appreciated. This space and experience is designed for ALL curious chess explorers, whether someone has never played or if someone has played their whole life!

This event is hosted by the Royal Oak Initiative. 

Upper Cup Chess Open Community Play on every 2nd and 4th Sunday, from 4-8pm at 80 Parsons Ave

Come play chess at the Cooperative Chess Cultural Center (4C - "The Fork"). All skill levels are desired and everyone takes home an "L". Whether that is a lesson or loss, come connect with community. Good vibes only. 

Free to participate, but donations are appreciated. This space and experience is designed for ALL curious chess explorers, whether someone has never played or if someone has played their whole life!

This event is hosted by the Royal Oak Initiative. 

Upper Cup Chess Open Community Play on every 2nd and 4th Sunday, from 4-8pm at 80 Parsons Ave

Come play chess at the Cooperative Chess Cultural Center (4C - "The Fork"). All skill levels are desired and everyone takes home an "L". Whether that is a lesson or loss, come connect with community. Good vibes only. 

Free to participate, but donations are appreciated. This space and experience is designed for ALL curious chess explorers, whether someone has never played or if someone has played their whole life!

This event is hosted by the Royal Oak Initiative. 

Upper Cup Chess Open Community Play on every 2nd and 4th Sunday, from 4-8pm at 80 Parsons Ave

Come play chess at the Cooperative Chess Cultural Center (4C - "The Fork"). All skill levels are desired and everyone takes home an "L". Whether that is a lesson or loss, come connect with community. Good vibes only. 

Free to participate, but donations are appreciated. This space and experience is designed for ALL curious chess explorers, whether someone has never played or if someone has played their whole life!

This event is hosted by the Royal Oak Initiative.