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Where The Boys Are

© Brenda

When I was in college, meeting men was a cinch. You just had to be, that’s all. They came to you. Even when you didn’t want them to.

Growing older, I’ve found that although I date quite a bit, the places I frequent aren’t the same as those in my younger 20s. A friend of mine recently complained that she never meets any men. Quizzing her, I found that mainly it was because (a) she works with nothing but women and no men visit her office, so the work contact (more on work later) is out and (b) because she is shy.

Doing research on different places to meet other singles, I found that many websites listed some of the same suggestions. Here are a few I found worthwhile:

Volunteer Work

If you have a particular cause or interest, volunteering may be just the thing for you. Not only will you meet other people with a similar passion, you will be giving back something to your community as well. Animal lover? The ASPCA has chapters in most every major urban area. Scout out your city to see if they have no-kill shelters, too. Our homeless furry friends need walks, affection and their cages cleaned. Besides, if you already have a dog or cat, wouldn’t you rather date someone who loved them (or was capable of loving them) the way that you do? Feeling like something needs to be done for those who cannot do for themselves? Try your local homeless shelter, food bank or soup kitchen. Adult illiteracy your particular gripe? Get involved, and give others the gift of reading. True, your small act won’t “save” the world, but you’ll be doing something other than the typical happy hour thing, and you are bound to meet like-minded individuals with a sense of community purpose. (Remember, you need to make a commitment to keep volunteering, regardless of whether or not potential dating partners are there. Besides, one can never have too many friends – so look at it as potential friendships instead.)

Political Activism

During college, I became active as a delegate for the Democratic Party in the presidential race (won’t date myself with which one!). At first, it was extra credit for a political science course. I went with my friend and classmate, and we had a blast. In the end, because of the cost of school, I couldn’t attend the State Convention in Houston, but I was elected to go. Many of the same people show up at these events and have been active in the “fight” for years. Not only can love blossom while working for your candidate, but you will also meet people with whom you can network for your career, share the joys (and disappointments) of a close race, and possibly become friends. To me, there is not much sexier than a man with a passion for a cause.

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