Civic Engagement New York

Join Local Community and Civic Events in NYC

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200kGroups

Sunday Gathering: Sharing Our Peace Corps Journey–Bringing Our Experiences Home

Sun, Oct 11, 3:00 PM

From The Ethical Culture Society of Bergen County

4.8

Matt and Jen Tully spent 15 years living and working overseas in places like Armenia, Cameroon, Myanmar, Nepal and the Philippines. Their journey began as Peace Corps volunteers and has included roles in education and social work both in the US and abroad. Join us as Jen and Matt share about the experiences that led them to feel at home here at our Ethical Culture Society. This Gathering is at the meetinghouse and on Zoom. To receive the Zoom link, please email admin@ethicalfocus.org.

4 attendees

Trivia Meetup - Sat. Oct. 10

Sat, Oct 10, 6:00 PM

From NYC Trivia Board Games

4.7

A Saturday afternoon of trivia at this location. This Whole Foods is at 450 West 33 Street in lManhattan. The IRT and IND trains stop a couple of blocks away. The seating area is upstairs. Turn left after getting off the escalator. A large food and beverage selection. Cashiers on the main and lower levels. MAKE A PURCHASE and hold on to the receipt in case they ask. If you find you cannot attend, change your RSVP to NO. Okay, let's see how this works out.

11 attendees

Making Belonging: Story, Design & Social Practice

Mon, Oct 19, 11:00 PM

From Columbia Digital Storytelling Lab

4.7

What does it mean to make a place where people feel they belong? And what changes when we make it together? Join us for an evening of experimentation as students from Columbia University share a series of prototypes exploring belonging. Through story, design, play, and participation, we'll look at social practice as an act of co-creation, making things with people rather than simply for them. The evening will move between prototypes, conversation, and collective experimentation, asking how the spaces we create—physical, digital, or somewhere in between can invite connection, agency, and a sense of belonging. We'll be joined by **Romy Nehme**, an experience and strategy designer, writer, and member of the Columbia Digital Storytelling Lab whose work sits at the intersection of storytelling, imagination, design, and systems change. Romy helped launch New_ Public, bringing a placemaking ethos to the design of digital spaces, and through her practice Beautiful Seams explores how narrative and experience design can help people imagine and shape different futures. Beautiful Seams. Come ready to experience, experiment, and make something together.

20 attendees

Victory Pints at Wild East Brewing

Mon, Oct 19, 10:00 PM

From Victory Pints: Board Games and Beer

4.8

WEBSITE (http://www.victorypints.com/) TWITTER (https://twitter.com/victory_pints) FACEBOOK (https://www.facebook.com/victorypints) Every Monday we bring some serious board game madness to Wild East Brewing from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM. They like board games; we like board games... it's a match made in heaven! WHAT TYPE OF GAMES ARE PLAYED? All types. Real short bluffing games decorated with skulls and flowers. Cooperative games fighting horrible diseases. Classic euro games where you haggle over sheep and wheat. Whether you want to fight unspeakable horrors in Arkham or build railroads across America or rebuild your farm after the black plague (more fun than it sounds) you can probably find a game you would like. Some games you might see are 7 Wonders, Settlers of Catan, Pandemic, Dominion, Dixit, Puerto Rico, Eldritch Horror, Ticket to Ride, Carcasonne among many others. You're also welcome to bring any game you want to play! I DON'T KNOW THESE GAMES? IS IT COOL IF I COME? We're very friendly and if you have no idea what the hell we're talking about just trust us when we say it's ton of fun. We'll have tons of games and we're very happy to show you the rules. Hang out, haves some drinks, and learn a new game. Questions? Comments? Contact us at info@victorypints.com

3 attendees

BRONX volunteers needed

Thu, Oct 22, 11:00 PM

From NYC Non-Profit Meetup (nonprofit volunteers)

4.8

Desert and food events for low income families in the Bronx, and other recipients that need help throughout NY. Every Thursday - Saturday during January and February. Welcome Tasters and Admin assistance. For your help, you will be treated too! RSVP via meetup for location and further information before spots fill up!

1 attendee

Casual Drinks, Conversations, and Trivia

Thu, Oct 15, 11:00 PM

From Casual Drinks, Conversations, and Trivia in Fort Greene

4.9

Join me for casual drinks and conversations, and a couple rounds of trivia. This is an event where people from around the neighborhood just meet and talk. Talk about your day, talk about your life, talk about the weather, talk about your hobbies. Anything and everything is welcome! Then, at 8pm, we can join the rest of the bar in a round of Trivia where we can test our repitoire of all-important knowledge. Hopefully we can make meaningful connections and turn strangers into friends.

10 attendees

Volunteer open training - ALL LEVELS

Sun, Oct 11, 5:00 PM

From Hoboken Cove Community Boathouse

4.9

You can paddle on your own, or receive some instruction from basic to advance strokes. Please sign up for up to one training per week, unless you are the trainer. Let others have fun! The host will move you to "Not going" if you sign up for more than one training per week. We'll check that folks have signed the annual waiver. Please sign ahead of time and keep the email confirmation, click [here.](https://app.waiversign.com/e/5c01c8bb33b77b2595e6fdfa/doc/695a606c38aa3d0012b5747c?event=none) Please be on time and come prepared with the following: \*Quick drying clothes * Close toe water shoes \*Change of clothes * Towel \*Sunscreen, hat * Water in a reusable bottle PREREQUISITES TO RSVP \*You have volunteered at least 4 embayment shifts in 2026

19 attendees

Songwriter Circle @ Brooklyn Ethical

Wed, Oct 21, 11:00 PM

From Brooklyn Ethical - Free Thinkers Community in Park Slope

4.6

**Play and listen to original music!** The Songwriter Circle at Brooklyn Ethical is a monthly gathering dedicated to musical expression and creativity. Everyone from beginners to pros are welcome to share songs in progress, exchange feedback, and jam together! **What to expect?** We'll take turns sharing songs we've written ourselves and discussing the art of music and songwriting from a learner's perspective. Feel free to bring your instrument of choice, but if you just have your singing voice, that's great too. We can also play recordings on our lovely sound system; this is a great option for music that can't easily be performed live. We'll have two rounds of sharing, then a rest break. Then one or two more rounds depending on available time and energy. Drop by any time from 7 to 9 pm! We do have the space until 10 pm so if there are a lot of us, everyone can have a chance to share. RSVP is not necessary but encouraged! **What to share?** * A song you or a friend composed * A song that you have adapted from another song * An interesting/creative cover of a song * Standalone chord progressions or lyrics * Questions or thoughts on the creative process * Requests for help, feedback, jamming, sing-along, etc. **Does it cost anything?** We don't have an attendance fee. We do ask for a $10 donation or whatever you can give to help pay for the space. All proceeds go to our host, the [Brooklyn Society for Ethical Culture](https://bsec.org). **Frequently Asked Questions** **Where is it?** We're hosted by the Brooklyn Society for Ethical Culture. Here is the address: 269 4th Ave (between Garfield Pl and 1st St) Brooklyn, NY We're near these subway stations: * Union St. (D, N, R, W) (2-minute walk) * 4 Av-9 St (F, G) (11-minute walk) * Grand Army Plaza (2, 3, 4) (12-minute walk) **When is it?** We meet on the 3rd Wednesday of every month, from 7 PM to 9 PM/10 PM (ending time varies based on attendance). **Do I *have* to bring a song that I've written?** No, you don't have to :) You're welcome to simply bring your ears if you like! Discussion during turns is encouraged, so you can always use your turn to talk or ask questions about the composition or writing process. **I'm shy...** **My song is bad...** **I just started writing music...** Our hope is to create a comfortable space for performing original music, even if it's terrible :) You will find all levels of skill and composing ability here. It is more important that you practice with us, and not worry about being "perfect"! **I have another question...** Feel free to post your questions as a comment on the main group page or any event page! **See you there!**

4 attendees

Paint In Central Park (Bucket List Event)

Sun, Oct 18, 5:00 PM

From Mature Social Professionals (40s & 50s+)

4.5

**\*TO ATTEND GET TICKETS AT:** [https://www.eventbrite.com/e/paint-in-the-park-tickets-1984990444855](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/paint-in-the-park-tickets-1984990444855) *(This is a prepay event and only way to attend is to get ticket in advance at link above. Our events are co-organized by multiple groups so don't pay attention to the RSVPs. These events are consistently well attended.)* CELEBRATE SPRING AT ONE OF OUR MOST POPULAR MEETUPS - A PICNIC 'N PAINT IN CENTRAL PARK! Come join us in a relaxed, creative and social setting. No experience necessary. So grab your picnic basket and enjoy wonderful paint event in Central Park! Included: a pre-sketched canvas, unlimited painting materials (brushes, acrylic paints etc.) and a take home bag. No smocks so please dress appropriately. Please bring something to sit on. What to expect: **• Step-by-step, group-oriented painting instruction, which is designed to simultaneously entertain and enlighten our members.** **• We'll have a professional artist guide you through a featured painting that is yours to keep and proudly display. And don’t worry — no experience is necessary.** **• 2 hour course lead that teaches you the art of mixing colors, blending and painting techniques.** **• All supplies provided - 12x16 pre-sketched canvas, unlimited acrylic paint (water based), brushes, and aprons.** DIRECTIONS TO FIND GROUP: We are located in a cul-de-sac at PINETUM EAST. We will be behind this row of benches (right under the trees). If you are coming from the east side you can find us by entering Central Park on East 84th street. Walk up the ramp, cross over the road and head west. If you are traveling from the west side we are east of the basketball courts. FAQs: What if it rains? We will email attendees a rain date. Can I still attend If I don't know how to paint? Yes, there's no experience necessary. Can I come alone? Yes, about 80% come on their own. Is this age specific? No, all are welcome. Cost? $35-$45, price goes up as the event date gets closer. This event will sell out. Can't purchase at the door. For more fun events follow: [https://www.eventbrite.com/o/new-york-city-social-events-10797526283](https://www.eventbrite.com/o/new-york-city-social-events-10797526283)

1 attendee

Blood Drive & Lunch—One Pint Saves 3 Lives. Invite a Friend! Host: Bill & ¥

Thu, Oct 22, 3:45 PM

From Applied Psychology Meetup NYC

4.8

Hosts: Yen & Bill. Give blood and go out for lunch afterward - "One pint of blood can save 3 lives. Bring a friend! Pay It Forward https://youtu.be/MqUfHAOdn30 * 62% of the U.S. is eligible to donate blood. The #1 reason people don't donate is they were never asked. * Did you know that platelets support blood clotting and give those with leukemia and other cancers a chance to live? * Did you know that blood loss victims of car accidents may need transfusions of 50 pints or more of red blood cells? * More than 25% of the blood supply is used by cancer patients. "Red Cross declares first-ever national blood crisis." https://youtu.be/ZUmbgpmNixg #GIVEWITHME https://www.cbsnews.com/news/red-cross-blood-crises-united-states-covid-19/ Make your reservation here: https://donate.nybc.org/donor/auth/signin We'll be donating at the Grand Central Donor Center Chanin Building 115 East 41st Street NEW YORK, NY 10017 +18009332566 (this is NOT to be confused with the Metro North Donor Center) Information for first-time donors, including eligibility criteria: https://www.nybc.org/donate-blood/ "The need for blood is ongoing, but COVID-19 has destroyed the foundation on which the community donates blood to patients served by New York Blood Center. Every week, more than 75,000 blood donations and 1,700 donated platelet units are needed to meet patient need. To ensure we are prepared to support health agencies in our communities and across the country, NYBCe strongly urges individuals who feel healthy and well to make an appointment at a donor center or find a new community blood drive. DONORS PRESENTING: " Regardless of vaccination status, ALL donors MUST wear a mask that covers their mouth and nose Must be 14 days symptom free if recovered from COVID-19 May NOT donate if they have a positive diagnostic test or experienced symptoms of COVID-19 in the last 14 days May not donate if they have been told to self-quarantine due to exposure risk, including travel. We follow current State and CDC travel recommendations. CDC - Travel (cdc.gov) COVID\-19 Travel Advisory \| Department of Health $ny\.gov$ If you are unsure whether to donate, or if you have donated recently and you develop symptoms of COVID-19 or you test positive for COVID-19, please contact us at 800.688.0900." https://nybc.org/donate-blood/covid-19-and-blood-donation-copy/ #SAVEALIFE #GIVEWITHME #DONATEBLOOD #NYBLOODCENTER #REDCROSS #VOLUNTEER #BLOODSHORTAGE

4 attendees

50s & Over Central Park Social Walk

Sun, Oct 18, 4:00 PM

From Crazy Fun Stuff To Do In NYC

4.1

**\*TO ATTEND GET TICKETS AT -** [https://www.eventbrite.com/e/central-park-social-walk-50s-over-tickets-1307309892079](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/central-park-social-walk-50s-over-tickets-1307309892079) (\*Limited 5 save $5 by using discount code "5" at checkout. Multiple groups are co-organizing so RSVP's shown are just a very small portion attending. Based on previous walks, we'll have around 20.) Our Winter Walks offer invigorating, scenic, and a healthy outdoor activity, at one of our most popular NY locations - Central Park! Plus, it's a great and different way to meet others and make new friends of the same age! You will randomly be paired with others in the beginning then rotate at designated times so that you get to meet everyone participating. This event very casual and non-awkward + our host will help to make introductions. We will casually walk a 1.5-2 mile stretch through Central Park. You will also have the option to hang out afterwards where you can exchange contact info with others. Reminder, this is a a "social" walk and gender ratios may not be even. FAQs: **Where to meet?** Exact meeting location with host contact info will be sent to all paid attendees day of the event. **How many will attend?** We limit the # of attendees to a max of 20 so everyone has enough time to get to know each other. **What if rains?** We will email attendees a new date. **Can I come alone?** Yes, about 90% come on their own. **How much?** $15-$20 depending upon when you get ticket and spots left. P.S. We also do this Central Park Walk fo 20s-40s - [https://www.eventbrite.com/e/central-park-sunset-singles-stroll-tickets-1981450525862](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/central-park-sunset-singles-stroll-tickets-1981450525862)

16 attendees

Millennial Skip the Small Talk: Make Friends, Not Small Talk

Tue, Oct 13, 11:00 PM

From " Ⓒulture, Ⓒuisine, Ⓒocktails, Ⓒoffee & Ⓒonvos = Ⓒommunity-"

4.6

**###PLEASE NOTE: Even if you RSVP on Meetup, you will need to grab a ticket here https://www.skipthesmalltalk.com/store/millennial-skip-the-small-talk-night-at-mccarren-parkhouse-tuesday-october-13-2026 in order to attend###** This event is cross-posted so Meetup RSVPs won't accurately reflect the actual number of attendees; typically there are around 30-40 people in attendance. Folks in this Meetup group get **10% off**! Use code: **MEETUP** at checkout. **What's It Like?** Do you wish you could have more of the kinds of conversations you have late at night where for some reason, you feel safe talking about the things you actually care about? Bring your friends (or come by yourself- most people do!) and spend your Tuesday night at an event where you know everyone else is there for the same reason. We'll be offering 'big talk' conversational prompts on them to get you started, and we'll have lots of structure to make sure that you actually talk to people and that it's not awkward. There will be drinks for sale! **There is a 1 drink minimum purchase** for this event, so please keep that in mind. **Check-in** for this event will begin around **6:45 pm**. Please do your best to arrive before 7:00 pm so we can begin as close to on time as possible. Skip the Small Talk is dedicated to providing an inclusive, welcoming environment for everyone. Check out our safety policy here: tinyurl.com/ststSafety Please see our event [page](https://www.skipthesmalltalk.com/store/millennial-skip-the-small-talk-night-at-mccarren-parkhouse-tuesday-october-13-2026) for more accessibility info. **Ready to Skip the Small Talk With Us?** **[Grab a ticket](https://www.skipthesmalltalk.com/store/millennial-skip-the-small-talk-night-at-mccarren-parkhouse-tuesday-october-13-2026)** since entry is on a first come first serve basis and we tend to sell out in advance for these-- once we are out of tickets, we will NOT be able to accommodate folks at the door. Want to see what else is happening at McCarren Parkhouse? Feel free to check them out **[here](https://mccarrenparkhouse.com)**! If you want to be the first to hear about our events before we sell out, feel free to join our mailing list at [Skip the Small Talk Mailing List Sign-Up](https://sendfox.com/skipthesmalltalk) For refunds or transfers, please contact use at info@skipthesmalltalk.com

8 attendees

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Frequently asked questions

Meetup is a platform to find and join local groups and events based on common interests. Users can explore diverse communities, from civic engagement to hobbies, and participate in events both in-person and online.

You can search by location on Meetup to find community engagement groups in New York. Filter results by interest to connect with groups focused on civic initiatives in your area.

Yes, Meetup provides you with the ability to join activism groups in New York. Simply search for relevant keywords and explore available community initiatives and discussion groups.

Yes, you can discover events related to local politics on Meetup. Civic engagement groups often organize talks and discussions focused on community topics relevant to New York.

To join a meetup in New York, find a group that interests you, then RSVP to an event. This confirms your attendance and helps you stay informed about the group's activities.

Joining groups on Meetup is usually free, but some events may require a fee set by the host. Review event details to understand any associated costs before attending.

Indeed, Meetup allows you to find community events that are hosted online. Filter your search preferences to include online events and browse relevant options.

To RSVP, locate the event of interest and click the RSVP button. This shows your intent to attend and helps event organizers plan accordingly.

Meetup takes privacy seriously, employing measures to protect user information. Review their privacy practices on the website's policy page for comprehensive details.

Availability of civic engagement groups can vary by location within New York, depending on group activity and interest levels. Check in multiple neighborhoods for the best results.

While many Meetup events are well-organized, quality can vary. Check event ratings and organizer reviews to ensure the best experience possible.

Meetup helps facilitate connections by introducing you to like-minded communities. Actual relationships depend on individual interaction and participation.

At civic events, feel free to engage in discussions on local initiatives, policy changes, or community goals. Open conversations foster active participation and idea exchange.

Meetup is a valuable tool for building a network within civic communities. However, the reach and success of advocacy efforts largely depend on active participation and dedication.

Not every interest may be represented everywhere in NYC due to varying group formation rates. However, you can create a new group if not currently available.

Civic Engagement New York