How to meet prof Afr Americans in the city (newbie) (Chicago: neighborhoods, theater)

[Iampoetic]

I just moved to the city a few months ago, and I was looking for tips to meet people. It would be nice to meet more African American professionals, but I'm looking to meet new people in general as well. I am one of a few blacks at work and most of the other people in my age range (20 something) are married or in relationships, so there isn't much room for socializing there. I live on the north side and love my neighborhood. I joined a gym and I've attended a couple Meetup events too. Any suggestions? or should I just wait until summer?

[M_Life]

My best recommendation would be to get involved in some sort of professional organization. What field are you in? I'm also AA and live on the north side. I have a super diverse group of friends and network. I also have a networking event company that puts on 1 or 2 events a year. Message me if you want to learn more or perhaps I can make some introductions for you.

[stephei2000]

Originally Posted by Iampoetic

I just moved to the city a few months ago, and I was looking for tips to meet people. It would be nice to meet more African American professionals, but I'm looking to meet new people in general as well. I am one of a few blacks at work and most of the other people in my age range (20 something) are married or in relationships, so there isn't much room for socializing there. I live on the north side and love my neighborhood. I joined a gym and I've attended a couple Meetup events too. Any suggestions? or should I just wait until summer?

Hi, I was part of African American meetup called the Professional Black Socialites. I met some good people there and found out a bunch of new venues to go to. Don't read into the title that much most of the people were pretty cool especially the organizer.

However, the crowd is I feel for the most part slightly older, but I met some great people there.

There is also First Fridays and website called Full Affect Marketing ran by Mark Fuller. There are a lot of events I use to received through text and e-mail.

I hope this helps a little.

[mjtinmemphis]

I would agree with the other responses. Take advantage of social media sponsored events.

I know my first 2.5 years here had my social calendar full. Winter normally takes its toll on people who are not use to it but there are options to get you through.

During the summer you have many festivals mostly on the south side like the Caribbean fest, Hyde Park and Jazz festival that doesn't get put in the spotlight but are awesome ways of meeting people. Cultural institutions and the theater seem to be the way to go as well.

If your time permits volunteer at local food banks. If you're into church that has always been a great way to meet others.

What ever you do don't draw silly lines on where you can and cannot go. Social options are better for professional Blacks south of Roosevelt in neighborhoods like South Loop, Bronzville and Hyde Park vs areas on the north side.

Good luck.

[marothisu]

Originally Posted by mjtinmemphis

vs areas on the north side.

Good luck.

From a pure going out perspective, from my experience, parts of River North and "southern Gold Coast" are probably exceptions too. There's also a geographic area - the River, Wells to Division, State between Division and Chicago, and Dearborn between Chicago and the river, that for residents is over 10% black as well. Something I don't think you'll find anywhere in a north side area like Lincoln Park or most of Lakeview as you have implied.

[mjtinmemphis]

Originally Posted by marothisu

From a pure going out perspective, from my experience, parts of River North and "southern Gold Coast" are probably exceptions too. There's also a geographic area - the River, Wells to Division, State between Division and Chicago, and Dearborn between Chicago and the river, that for residents is over 10% black as well. Something I don't think you'll find anywhere in a north side area like Lincoln Park or most of Lakeview as you have implied.

You are right about that.

Another honorable mention would be West Loop or Greek Town.

[marothisu]

Originally Posted by mjtinmemphis

You are right about that.

Another honorable mention would be West Loop or Greek Town.

There are a number out in Wicker Park too on the weekends.

[Manigault]

Originally Posted by mjtinmemphis

What ever you do don't draw silly lines on where you can and cannot go. Social options are better for professional Blacks south of Roosevelt in neighborhoods like South Loop, Bronzville and Hyde Park vs areas on the north side.

true, that.

[Iampoetic]

Thanks for all the suggestions! I guess I need to be adventurous and get out there!

[nj21]

Originally Posted by Iampoetic

Thanks for all the suggestions! I guess I need to be adventurous and get out there!

How's it going? Have you attended any outings and events? I feel the same way.

I'm a professional single black woman living in the gold coast and do not have any interaction with other black professionals. Except maybe a few in the office. I'd like to make more friends. This is a bit depressing. I'm even considering moving back to the NJ/NYC tri-state area.