What we’re about
I started this Waltham Meetup group 8 years ago because I wanted to create a space for people to meet, socialize, and build real connections close to home. It’s been my passion ever since to keep this group going and help bring people together!
Who is this group for?
This group is for people in their 20s, 30s, and 40s in Waltham, Newton, and surrounding areas who want to:
✔️ Connect and make new friends without the hassle of going into downtown Boston
✔️ Explore local restaurants and pubs
✔️ Enjoy walking, hiking, and kayaking in the summer
✔️ Socialize in a fun and welcoming environment
Our Goal
We want to create a space where people can build meaningful connections and friendships—or simply enjoy a fun time out socializing. In a world where in-person connections are becoming rarer, let’s make it easier to meet new people and enjoy good company!
Why join us?
We offer a laid-back, welcoming space where you can meet new people, explore the area, and build friendships. Our events are designed to be fun, casual, and low-pressure, making it easy to connect with others.
How you can help keep the group going!
This group thrives on member participation—whether by:
✅ Suggesting event ideas
✅ Hosting an event every once in a while
Have an idea? Share it with the organizer, and we’ll set it up for you! The organizer makes it easy—just let us know what you’d like to host, and we’ll help make it happen. 💕
P.S. We also have a sister group for Latin@s, providing a space for Latin@s in the area to connect. Ask the organizer if you're interested!
Member Dues Why the $10 Annual Dues?
Your one-time yearly contribution of just $10 helps keep the group going and adds value for everyone. After processing fees, the group receives $8.75 per member, which supports:
• Meetup organizer fees (so the group can exist!)
• Building a reserve to support current and future activities
• Occasional shared appetizers or desserts at group meals
• The ability to reserve private rooms at restaurants when possible
• Supplies for events like name tags, game night materials, or special surprises
• Creating a better, more consistent experience for all members
Your support helps ensure the group stays active, welcoming, and fun — now and in the future.
Why the change?
We've switched to a $10 annual membership fee to make participation more affordable for everyone. Instead of paying $3 per event, the $10 annual payment provides access to all events for the year, which breaks down to just around $0.83 per month, depending on how many events we host. Since we offer more than one event each month, the value really adds up, and you’ll be able to attend as many events as you like without paying per event!
Encourages commitment – Helps reduce no-shows and ensures events are filled with people who truly want to connect.
More sustainable – Covers the Meetup organizer subscription so the group can continue running long-term.
Exclusive benefits – Members gain access to a private Facebook group for ongoing discussions, spontaneous get-togethers, and planning future events together.
Where does the money go?
First, it helps cover the Meetup organizer subscription ($380/year) to keep the group running.
After covering that cost, extra funds can contribute to improving events, providing supplies, and building a reserve for current and future activities.
Group Expectations & Community Guidelines
To help keep our group safe, respectful, and welcoming for all, we’ve put together a shared document outlining our community guidelines.
Please take a moment to review them before attending events:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1FV7yeqGtBc6kV7J78f6Ymz5Hp9ImqELLt7JPScO31Z4/edit?usp=drivesdk
Some FAQ’s about the group and details in general:
A. A picture may be taken of our event by attending our Meetup event you consent to it being taken and posted only to our Meetup and private FB group.
B. Member Photos: We require profile photos of yourself in order to be accepted into the group. This helps event organizers identify you and find you during events and be able to help you out should you need help finding the group.
C. Refund Policy:
1. Events with a fee of less than $5:
Please note that the fee for this event is non-refundable, even if someone else takes your spot. This small fee helps the Meetup organizer cover the $380 membership cost and serves as a thank-you for their time and effort in organizing these events. It also helps ensure that those who RSVP are genuinely interested and committed to attending, reducing "no shows" and last-minute cancellations after reservations have been made.
Thank you for understanding and supporting the group!
2. Events with a fee greater than $5: These would usually involve ticketed events. The general policy is if the Organizer/Host can get their money back, you’ll get your money back - if you timely canceled. Once an event location has been paid, however, many times they won’t issue a refund. If they don’t refund us, we can’t refund you regardless of how far in advance you canceled. That said, sometimes a refund can be issued IF you cancel at least a week in advance AND someone takes your spot. If you want to request a refund, message the event host via Meetup to discuss. Please note, if you cancel the day before or the day of an event, there are no refunds - regardless of the reason and regardless if someone takes your spot.
D. No show policy: we understand things unexpected things happen, and plans can change. Organizers take time and effort out of their free time to plan these activities for everyone and plan around a certain number of people and it's disrespectful to them to be left waiting for people who aren't coming. They can also run into reservation issues with restaurants that have been kind enough to accommodate for us. That's why we politely ask everyone to change their RSVP to “no” if they can't make it or message the organizer ahead of time. We'll implement a 3-strike no-show rule before removing a member from the group.
