Who would like a meetup group for 18+ with no age cap and transparency framework for Portland and surrounding area authentic friendship building?
Hi everyone!
Thank you so much for the incredible response to the initial idea for an 18+ platonic meet-up/ “meh-up” group!
It’s clear there is a huge demand for a space focused purely on building genuine, platonic friendships—whether you’re single or taken, introverted or extroverted, 18 or 75+, no cap.
Our goal is simple: create a relaxed, safe environment with clear boundaries and zero expectations.
How Gatherings Will Work
- Low Social Friction: Unstructured "mingle" events can be tough for introverts. To remove social anxiety, we’ll use micro-facilitation—gathering as a group and then splitting into small clusters of 3 to 4 with optional, low-stakes discussion prompts.
- Strictly Platonic: To keep everyone safe and comfortable, romantic solicitation and commercial promotion are strictly off-limits. This is purely about authentic friendship.
- Free & Accessible: Gatherings will be anchored in free public spaces (parks with covered shelter, libraries, and local cafes) with transit access.
Current Location Ideas
- Parks: Pier Park (St. Johns), Glenn Otto Park (Troutdale), Red Sunset Park (Gresham), A.M. Kennedy Park (Beaverton), Elizabeth Caruthers Park (South Waterfront), Wallace Park (NW Portland).
- Indoor Spaces / Libraries: East County Library, St. Johns Library, West Linn Library, Ledding Library (Milwaukie), Midland Library, and Attention Coffee (Sellwood).
(Have another free/accessible community space in mind? Let me know!)
Next Steps & How to Get Involved
I am finalizing the group culture and safety guidelines so everyone knows what to expect before attending.
RSVP / Connect: DM me here, email me at alchemyph1@gmail.com, or join the new subreddit at
r/platonicbydesign.
Pre-Event Check-in: Before our first in-person gathering, I’ll coordinate a quick virtual meet-and-greet/check-in so everyone can get introduced and review group norms together.
Thank you again for all the support—I’m looking forward to building this community with you all!