| | March 20 marked the first official day of Spring! This season is a wonderful opportunity to enjoy the natural beauty of the Central Ohio region. I encourage you to explore one of our City's many beautiful parks, or volunteer with a local organization and take action to protect our Earth! Organizations such as Friends of the Lower Olentangy Watershed (FLOW), Green Columbus, and Columbus Recreation and Parks host a number of outdoor volunteer opportunities focused on conservation and community beautification. I encourage you to get involved! | | | |
Dear Neighbors,
March is recognized around the nation as Women’s History Month, a time to honor the many contributions of women to American history, culture, and society. This year, the theme of Women’s History Month is Leading the Change: Women Shaping a Sustainable Future. This theme celebrates the diverse contributions of women around the nation who are leading sustainability efforts across environmental, economic, educational, and social justice movements. Additionally, it aims to raise awareness about the important historical and present roles of women in shaping sustainable change. If you are interested in learning more about Women’s History Month and this year’s theme, I encourage you to visit this website!
In celebration of Women’s History Month, let us honor the women who have shaped our City, and those who continue to guide Columbus towards being a more welcoming, inclusive, and sustainable community. As chair of the Public Utilities and Sustainability Committee, I am grateful to the women throughout our community who champion sustainability and stand up for our environment. Their contributions to the Central Ohio region do not go unnoticed, and I am grateful for the opportunity to celebrate them this Women’s History Month!
In other exciting news, I am happy to share that my team and I will be hosting the first edition of this year’s Wednesdays with Wyche series on Wednesday, March 25th from 4:00 P.M.-7:00 P.M. I will be meeting with constituents, community stakeholders, and other members of the public to discuss issues that are impacting our community. Please click here RSVP. This edition of Wednesdays with Wyche will take place at Barrel and Bloom, located at 2365 W. Dublin-Granville Road. I hope to see you there!
Sincerely,
Councilmember Christopher L. Wyche
| | COMMUNITY PARTNERS SPOTLIGHT | | |
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Per Scholas Columbus
215 N. Front St. Columbus, OH 43215 | 614-824-4777
Per Scholas Columbus is a local organization that offers no-cost technical training to learners and professionals throughout the Columbus community. They offer a variety of courses, with a focus on data engineering, cybersecurity, and systems support. Per Scholas Columbus graduates are equipped with highly sought-after professional skills that empower them to pursue careers in the tech industry. To learn more about Per Scholas Columbus's mission and impact in our community, I encourage you to visit their webpage!
In February, I presented Per Scholas Columbus with a resolution celebrating the milestone accomplishment of their 100th graduate and recognizing their dedication to increasing education accessibility in our community!
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Free Legal Services for the LGBTQ+ Community
Access to legal support shouldn’t be a barrier. On March 27 from 9:00 A.M.-4:00 P.M., Caravan of Hope is stopping at Stonewall Columbus to provide free legal services specifically for our LGBTQ+ community here in Columbus. Whether you need help with a name change, estate planning, a simple will and POA, or just need to know what legal resources are available to you, their team is here to help!
Location:
Stonewall Columbus
1160 N. High St.
Columbus, OH 43201
REGISTER HERE
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Strong Start Community Baby Shower
Expecting or caring for a little one under 12 months old? Join A Step in the Right Direction for their Strong Start Community Baby Shower on March 28 from 12:00 P.M.-2:00 P.M. for a day full of learning, fun, and community connection! Participants will have the opportunity to enjoy activities, games, and free resources, all while learning vital safety tips to help with infant vitality, including safe sleep.
Location:
Greater Twelfth Missionary Baptist Church
1561 Cleophus Kee Blvd.
Columbus, OH 43211
LEARN MORE AND RSVP HERE!
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Clear Path Recovery Clinic
Join Make-A-Day and Community Medical Services on March 30 from 11:00 A.M.-1:00 P.M. for their Clear Path Recovery Clinic. This event is focused on supporting individuals in the recovery community. Enjoy a free lunch, assistance completing expungement applications, free Hepatitis-C testing, and a variety of other resources.
Location:
Community Medical Services
6495 E. Broad St.
Columbus, OH 43213
LEARN MORE HERE
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Hygiene Free Store with A Step in the Right Direction
Join A Step in the Right Direction for their hygiene-free store, with two convenient pick-up opportunities each month! To participate, you must live within the City of Columbus. You can visit one location per month and request up to five free hygiene or cleaning items of your choice from the available selection. No pre-registration required.
Upcoming Dates:
April 5 from 1:30 P.M.-2:30 P.M.
Glenwood United Methodist Church
2833 Valleyview Dr.
Columbus, OH 43204
April 18 from 1:30 P.M.-2:30 P.M.
Columbus Metropolitan Library - Hilltop
511 S. Hague Ave.
Columbus, OH 43204
LEARN MORE HERE!
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Monthly Community Giveaways with Shavonne's House
Join Shavonne's House, in collaboration with A Step in the Right Direction, for the next edition of their Monthly Community Giveaways on April 11 from 12:00 P.M.-2:00 P.M. They will be sharing free household and hygiene items, along with other helpful resources for the community! Please note that items are available on a first come, first served basis.
Location:
COTA Park and Ride Lot (Livingston and Barnett)
3380 E. Livingston Ave.
Columbus, OH 43227
LEARN MORE HERE!
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MORPC Housing Resource Fair
Join the Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission (MORPC) for their upcoming Housing Resource Fair on April 25 from 10:00 A.M.-2:00 P.M. Whether you’re a renter, homeowner, first-time buyer, or just exploring your options, participants will have the opportunity to connect with local housing experts, learn about down payment assistance and home repair programs, get information on affordable housing resources, and ask questions and get real, personalized guidance. This free event is all about making housing information easier to access and bringing the right resources together in one place for our community.
Location:
MORPC Offices
111 Liberty St. Suite 100
Columbus, OH 43215
LEARN MORE HERE!
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The Columbus CARE Coalition CAREgivers' Retreat
Join the Columbus CARE Coalition for their CAREgivers' Retreat on March 28 from 9:30 A.M.-3:00 P.M. This event will provide space for healing, building community, and promoting self-care and support for caregivers who are often overlooked and under-supported. Participants will have the opportunity to participate in engaging workshops, attend a panel discussion, and gain access to supportive resources.
Location:
Nationwide Children's Hospital Education Center
543 S. 18th St.
Columbus, OH 43205
LEARN MORE AND RESERVE A SPOT HERE
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Hair Resource Fair with Columbus Metropolitan Library and Barbershop Books
Join Columbus Metropolitan Library for a Hair Resource Fair on March 28 from 12:00 P.M.-3:00 P.M. This event is in partnership with Barbershop Books, a community engagement group promoting early literacy in neighborhood barbershops - a culturally meaningful space for Black boys. This event will feature a hair-themed story time, refreshments, hands-on activities, resources, and a limited number of free hair cuts and styles for kids!
Location:
Columbus Metropolitan Library - Whitehall Branch
4445 E. Broad St.
Columbus, OH 43213
LEARN MORE HERE!
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Apply for the 2026 SWACO Scholarship Before March 31!
Applications for SWACO's 2026 scholarship are now open! This scholarship provides financial assistance to students who reside within SWACO’s District and have been accepted to an accredited college or university, as well as students who live outside the District but have been accepted to and plan to attend an accredited college or university within SWACO’s District. Eligible students are those pursuing a higher education degree in science, environmental studies, engineering, or other majors applicable to the solid waste management field. SWACO’s Scholarship Program will award one eligible student $2,500 every academic year to an accredited community college, four-year college or university of their choice. Applications close on March 31, 2026.
LEARN MORE HERE!
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Stop the Stigma Mental Health Series with St. John Learning Center
Join St. John Learning Center for their 2026 Stop the Stigma Mental Health Series. All classes are free and held on Zoom! The next workshop in the series will be held on April 9 from 12:00 P.M.-1:00 P.M. and will focus on emotional regulation.
REGISTER HERE or call 614-547-2171 for more details!
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Applications Open for Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens Teen Corps Program
Calling all teens ages 15-18! Do you have an interest in gardening, fresh produce, and nature? Apply to be a part of the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens Teen Corps Program! This is an eight-week long, paid training program. Participants will learn about gardening, plant care, growing food, farmers markets, and more. To qualify for the program, teens must have a Columbus address or attend Columbus City Schools. The program application will remain open until April 15, 2026.
CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE!
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Apply for MORPC's Summer Internship Program!
Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission (MORPC) is currently accepting applications for its Summer Internship Program! Interns will have the opportunity to work with current government professionals, as well as gain insight into the various services provided by a regional planning commission. Interns work a minimum of 16 hours to a maximum of 40 hours per week, and are compensated between $15-$17 an hour. The 2026 Summer Internship Program will begin on May 12th and end on August 14th. Applications are due by April 30, 2026 or until all positions are filled!
CLICK HERE to learn more!
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Franklin County Job and Resource Fair
Looking for the next step in your career? Or are you curious about the services available to help residents of Franklin County? Then join in for the Franklin County Job and Resource Fair on March 28 from 10 A.M.-2:00 P.M. This event is an opportunity for job seekers to connect with a wide-range of opportunities at dozens of county agencies, while also highlighting vital resources and services for those living in Franklin County.
Location:
Harmony Project
4411 Tamarack Blvd.
Columbus, OH 43229
LEARN MORE HERE!
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Applications Now Open for the Big Local Arts Village
Calling all local artists! Applications are now open for the Big Local Arts Village at the 2026 Columbus Arts Festival. Now in its 14th year, the Big Local Arts Village sits at the Festival’s Franklinton entrance on West Rich Street. Artisans and makers from central Ohio can choose to apply for a shared space in the village. Artists pay a commission to the Arts Festival, rather than a booth fee. Typically, more than 60 artists from central Ohio sell their work, along with select artists demonstrating everything from woodturning to Japanese calligraphy, ceramics to blacksmithing, and more! Applications are open until 5:00 P.M. on March 30, 2026.
LEARN MORE AND APPLY HERE!
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Strong Start Support Services With A Step in the Right Direction
Join A Step in the Right Direction for their Strong Start Infant Vitality Workshops! Workshops aim to equip caregivers with the knowledge and skills needed to support a child in their first year of life. After the workshop, participants receive a free car seat or a pack and play, as well as other vital supplies for both infants and caregivers! To participate, you must be 34 weeks pregnant or have a child under 12 months old.
Upcoming Dates:
April 3 from 11:00 A.M.-1:00 P.M.
Glenwood United Methodist Church
2833 Valleyview Dr.
Columbus, OH 43204
April 17 from 11:00 A.M.-1:00 P.M.
Glenwood United Methodist Church
2833 Valleyview Dr.
Columbus, OH 43204
CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE AND RSVP!
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Cultivated Beginnings Workshop for Expecting Parents
Cultivated Beginnings is an intentional gathering for expecting parents to learn, connect, and feel supported as they prepare for birth and early parenthood. Through guided conversations, gentle education, and shared experiences, this event centers holistic wellness, cultural wisdom, and practical tools for the journey ahead. Participants will have the opportunity to engage in interactive education, infant CPR instruction, yoga and meditation sessions, and community conversations.
Upcoming Dates:
April 8 from 6:00 P.M.-8:00 P.M.
Mount Carmel Healthy Living Center
77 W. State St.
Columbus, OH 43222
April 11 from 11:00 A.M.-1:00 P.M.
Mount Carmel Healthy Living Center
77 W. State St.
Columbus, OH 43222
LEARN MORE AND REGISTER HERE
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TAP IN Center at Columbus Metropolitan Library
Do you (or someone you know) have a non-violent misdemeanor holding you back? The TAP IN Center offers assistance with recall and case rescheduling! They focus on creating an accessible space to help meet the needs of those in our community. When you receive assistance with your warrant case, you can then access other assistance services, including: BMV suspension/reinstatements, child support questions, benefits applications, and sealing and expungement assistance.
The next TAP IN Center event is on April 21 from 3:30 P.M. to 6:30 P.M. Appointments are required! To schedule, call 614-525-4488.
Location:
Columbus Metropolitan Library - Barnett
3434 E. Livingston Ave.
Columbus, OH 43227
CLICK HERE to learn more!
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The Columbus Promise Application Portal is Now Open
The Columbus Promise is a community initiative that removes financial barriers and makes college more accessible to Columbus City Schools graduates. The Columbus Promise Scholarship covers tuition and fees at Columbus State after federal and other eligible aid is applied, and provides up to $500 per semester for additional educational expenses. The Columbus Promise has no GPA requirement, is open regardless of immigration status, and is not dependent on Pell Grant eligibility. All application materials are due by May 15, 2026.
LEARN MORE HERE!
| | ACT WITH US! BE THE CHANGE! | | |
Conservation at Warner Woods
Join Columbus Recreation and Parks on March 28 from 9:00 A.M.-12:00 P.M. for a conservation volunteer opportunity! Volunteers will be removing invasive honeysuckle and other species at Warner Woods Nature Preserve. Volunteers are encouraged to wear long pants, closed toed shoes, and clothes that can get messy! It is also recommended to bring a reusable water bottle.
Location:
Warner Woods Park
4790 Warner Rd.
Westerville, OH 43081
SIGN UP HERE
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Glenwood Park Earth and Arbor Day Volunteer Opportunity
Join Columbus Recreation and Parks on April 24 from 10:00 A.M.-12:00 P.M. for a fun volunteer opportunity in celebration of Earth and Arbor Day! Volunteers will be completing various projects to beautify Glenwood Park, including tree planting, playground mulching, landscaping, and more. Volunteers should wear closed toed shoes, long pants, and clothes that can get messy. Please bring a water bottle to stay hydrated and sunscreen to protect from sun. Recreation and Parks staff will provide gloves and other supplies.
Location:
Glenwood Park
1888 Fairmont Ave.
Columbus, OH 43223
SIGN UP HERE
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Tree Nursery Work Days With Green Columbus
Join Green Columbus for their Tree Nursery Work Day on March 28 from 10:00 A.M.-2:00 P.M. Volunteers will help care for baby trees that will soon be shading our community. Please wear comfortable clothes and sturdy shoes. No previous experience is required.
Location:
1142 E. 17th Ave.
Columbus, OH 43211
LEARN MORE AND REGISTER UP HERE!
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Tree Potting with FLOW
Join Friends of the Lower Olentangy Watershed (FLOW) on April 25 from 9:00 A.M.-12:00 P.M. for a tree potting event with Del-Co Water! They will be potting 500 saplings to help Del-Co Water get their tree nursery up and running this Spring. All tools will be provided. Volunteers are encouraged to dress for the weather and wear sturdy shoes.
Location:
Del-Co Water Company
6658 Olentangy River Rd.
Delaware, OH 43015
LEARN MORE HERE!
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Pollinator Garden Planting with Councilmember Wyche
Join Councilmember Christopher L. Wyche and the City Council Team on April 8 from 10:00 A.M.-12:00 P.M. as we install the first pollinator garden at City Hall! Volunteers are encouraged to wear comfortable clothes fit for gardening. Coffee, donuts, and supplies will be provided.
Location:
City Hall Campus
77 N. Front St.
Columbus, OH 43215
REGISTER HERE!
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Volunteer with Festa!
Festa is a local nonprofit that seeks to end poverty through life-changing relationships. They have reached a critical need for volunteers at their newly established 3-Generation Family ESL site in Northland. Volunteers assist staff serving dinner and join children playing games, completing homework assignments, and doing creative and educational activities! Volunteer shifts are open on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6:00 P.M.-8:30 P.M. Please note, a background check is required for volunteers ages 18 and up.
CLICK HERE to learn more!
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Community Creatures Collage Workshop
Friday | March 27 | 3:00 P.M.-5:00 P.M.
We Amplify Voices
1327 Sullivant Ave.
Columbus, OH 43223
Join We Amplify Voices for a visual arts collage workshop hosted by Charlotte McGraw and AJ Vanderelli. In this hands-on workshop, you'll design your own unique collage creature while fostering connection and community through art. March's theme is "Self" - Discover your inner creature! In this reflective session, you'll create a collage that expresses your identity, values, and the many layers that make you uniquely you.
RSVP HERE!
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Untold Stories: Journeys of Resilience and Hope
Tuesday | March 31 | 6:30 P.M.-8:00 P.M.
Columbus Museum of Art
480 E. Broad St.
Columbus, OH 43215
Some stories are carried quietly: stories of pregnancy, birth, loss, and the strength it takes to keep moving forward. For the past six months, CelebrateOne’s Untold Stories video series has shared the real experiences of families in Columbus. This panel event provides an opportunity for the women behind those stories to come together for a live conversation about resilience, hope, and the power of being heard. You are invited to join for an evening of reflection, connection, and the power of shared experience.
REGISTER HERE!
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Finance and Governing Committee: Participatory Budget Hearing
Monday | April 6 | 3:00 P.M.
Columbus City Hall - Council Chambers
90 W. Broad St.
Columbus, OH 43215
Councilmember Nick Bankston, chair of the Finance and Governance Committee, will hold a hearing to unveil and discuss steering committee recommendations on the establishment of the city’s first Participatory Budgeting pilot. Participatory budgeting is a democratic process where community members directly decide how to spend part of a public budget, typically through brainstorming, proposal development, and voting. The Participatory Budgeting process is split between 5 phases, Process Design, Idea Collection, Proposal Development, the Vote and Project Implementation. This hearing will kick off the idea collection phase of the process. Public testimony must be submitted by 10:00 A.M. on the day of the hearing by email to jbbrown@columbus.gov. In-person testimony will be limited to three minutes.
CLICK HERE TO SUBMIT TESTIMONY
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IGNITE! Know Your Worth: An Empowerment Experience for Young Men
Saturday | April 18 | 10:00 A.M.-3:00 P.M.
East High School
1500 E. Broad St.
Columbus, OH 43205
IGNITE! Know Your Worth is a free empowerment experience designed to uplift, inspire and support young men ages 8-18. Rooted in positive youth development, this one-day event creates an affirming space where young men can build confidence, strengthen character, and develop the leadership skills needed to thrive. Throughout the day, participants will engage in interactive workshops, engage in meaningful discussions. and participate in hands-on experiences.
LEARN MORE HERE AND REGISTER HERE!
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March DAD-ness
Friday | March 27 | 4:30 P.M.-6:00 P.M.
FACCES Starting Point Family Center
2515 Lockbourne Rd.
Columbus, OH 43207
Join FACCES for March DAD-ness, a celebration to honor fathers, mentors, and male role models in our community! This March Madness spin-off is an opportunity for fathers, male role models, caregivers, and mentors to show up for their children and play ball. Participants will build meaningful connections, strengthen family legacy, and support and encourage one another as positive figures in the lives of children. Come enjoy a basketball tournament, food, music, and resources in a welcoming space designed to uplift families and bring our community together!
LEARN MORE AND RSVP HERE!
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Queer Sip and Paint
Tuesday | March 31 | 6:30 P.M.-8:30 P.M.
Stonewall Columbus
1160 N. High St.
Columbus, OH 43201
Celebrate International Transgender Day of Visibility with a Queer Sip and Paint hosted by Stonewall Columbus! This event is a wonderful opportunity to express your creativity and connect with transgender, non-binary, and gender expansive people in Columbus. Art supplies and food will be provided. A cash bar will be open serving drinks and mocktails.
LEARN MORE AND REGISTER HERE!
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Public Utilities and Sustainability Committee: Earth Month Hearing
Wednesday | April 15 | 3:30 P.M.
Location To Be Announced!
Mark your calendars! Join Councilmember Christopher L. Wyche as he hosts the next Public Utilities and Sustainability Committee Hearing! This hearing is inspired by Earth Month, and the specific topic to be discussed at the hearing will be announced soon. As always, public testimony for the hearing can be emailed to CLGolterman@columbus.gov by noon on the day before the hearing.
CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE!
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Columbus Metropolitan Club: Ohio's Data Center Debate
Wednesday | April 22 | 11:30 A.M.
National Veterans Memorial and Museum
300 W. Broad St.
Columbus, OH 43215
Join Columbus Metropolitan Club for a forum focused on unpacking the broader implications of large-scale data center growth in Central Ohio. What are the true economic benefits? How should energy capacity and environmental concerns be weighed? And who ultimately has the authority when local and state priorities collide? Join in for a conversation that brings these questions into focus and helps shape how Central Ohio can navigate data center growth, innovation, and community impact in the years ahead! Councilmember Christopher L. Wyche will be a panelist and is excited to share his insight as Chair of the Public Utilities and Sustainability Committee.
LEARN MORE AND PURCHASE TICKETS HERE!
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Water Reuse Forum: The Future of Water Reuse in Central Ohio
Tuesday | March 31 | 9:30 A.M.-12:00 P.M.
MORPC Office
111 Liberty St.
Suite 100
Columbus, OH 43215
Join the Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission (MORPC) for a Water Reuse Forum focused on advancing water reuse strategies in Central Ohio as the region experiences increasing demands on its water resources. The forum will feature insights from early adopters of water reuse, an overview of the legislative and regulatory landscape, and a discussion on financing strategies for water reuse infrastructure and examples of approaches that have been successful in other regions.
LEARN MORE AND RSVP HERE!
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Great Southern Metro Park Grand Opening
Wednesday | April 1 | 4:00 P.M.-6:00 P.M.
Great Southern Metro Park
125 Williams Rd.
Columbus, OH 43207
Join Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks for the grand opening of its 21st park! Great Southern Metro Park expands outdoor recreation opportunities in south Columbus and provides new access to the Scioto River corridor. A signature feature of the park is its 230-yard obstacle course, designed to offer a fun and engaging fitness challenge. An adjacent fitness station provides additional workout opportunities, while the park also includes an overlook deck, playground, prairie, and spaces for picnicking. Paved and gravel trails accommodate walking and running, biking is available on three paved trails, and pets are welcome on all trails. The Grand Opening celebration will feature a ribbon cutting, carnival games, hot air balloon, tram rides, refreshments, and more!
LEARN MORE HERE!
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Kids as Planet Protectors: An Earth Day Celebration
Saturday | April 18 | 10:00 A.M.-2:00 P.M.
Grange Insurance Audubon Center
505 W. Whittier St.
Columbus, OH 43215
Celebrate Earth Day with Seeds of Caring's Kids as Planet Protectors: An Earth Day Celebration! Families and groups are invited to participate in multiple projects to help kids ages 2-12 take action in protecting our environment and investing in our planet’s future. Community partners will be on site to educate kids on environmental stewardship actions. Join in for a day of fun, education, and live music! This is a free, rain or shine event.
REGISTER HERE!
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Earth Day Celebration with Green Columbus
Sunday | April 26 | 11:00 A.M.-7:00 P.M.
Scioto Audubon Metro Park
400 W. Whittier St.
Columbus, OH 43215
Celebrate Earth Day with Green Columbus at this free, family-friendly, zero-waste event! Enjoy hands-on fun, learn about local sustainability efforts, and connect with organizations making a positive environmental impact in our community. Join in for a day full of celebration, live music, local vendors, food trucks, activities, and community fun for all ages.
LEARN MORE HERE!
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WOSU: Columbus City Council to hold hearing on data center growth in central Ohio (LINK HERE)
Matter News: Columbus City Council meeting debates the local impact of data centers (LINK HERE)
NBC4: Data centers focus of Columbus council hearing (LINK HERE)
The Columbus Dispatch: Columbus council mulls data center impacts on water, energy, and jobs (LINK HERE)
| | WANT YOUR EVENT FEATURED IN OUR NEXT NEWSLETTER? | | Are you interested in having a community event or resource featured in our next newsletter? Please email ALEiben2@columbus.gov by April 10th and include event details and a flyer or graphic to share. For the April newsletter, we ask that you submit events that are taking place in the last week of April or in the month of May. | | | Councilmember Christopher L. Wyche | 90 W. Broad St. | Columbus, OH 43215 US | | | | |
