Upcoming Events

The Siposium: One Paycheck Away - The Real Cost of Living in Franklin County

Thursday, March 26, 2026 7:00-9:00 PM

Parsons North Brewing Company

This month, Why is it getting harder to afford to live in Franklin County? Learn more about the realities of low-wage work, rising costs, and economic insecurity in Franklin County. Drawing on local data and research, Will breaks down what it's like for residents with low-wages to try to afford groceries, housing, childcare, and health care in Central Ohio – and why so many families are one unexpected expense away from crisis. The conversation will explore how we got here, what's driving rising costs, and what policy solutions could make life more affordable. Join us for a beer and an engaging conversation!

Speaker Bio: Will Petrik believes that all of us deserve freedom, dignity, and economic security. He has helped expand healthcare coverage (Medicaid) to over 750,000 Ohioans, win paid parental leave for Cleveland city workers, and advanced policies to make life more affordable for families. More recently, he helped launch guaranteed income pilots in Central Ohio to help single moms and families in crisis have more stability and peace of mind. He is the Director of Policy & Advocacy at the RISE Together Innovation Institute and Vice Chair of the Ohio Progressive Caucus.

Sip Salon: The Generation Gap Calculator - Why Life Costs More (and Feels Harder)

Sunday, March 22, 2026 6:00-8:00 PM

Junto Hotel, Trade Room

Welcome to the Sip Salon where we gather to learn together through articles and discussion. No experts, just curious folks coming together to discuss topics. Whether you know a little or a lot, we hope to grow together in our understandings. With drinks.

What does it really cost to “make it” in America today?

From homeownership and higher education to childcare and retirement, the traditional milestones of adulthood are carrying record-high price tags. At the same time, each generation seems to be navigating a different economic reality — shaped by wages, housing markets, debt, and shifting expectations.

In this Sip Salon, we’ll explore what the data says about the rising cost of the so-called American Dream and how financial pressures compare across generations. Is life actually harder now — or just different? How have our definitions of success changed? And if the old milestones feel increasingly out of reach, what should replace them?

As always, Sip Salon is discussion-based and welcoming — no experts, just curious people gathering over a drink to unpack timely ideas together.

Come ready to think, reflect, and share your perspective.

*Note - we will meet in the Trade Room of the Junto hotel (just to the right as you enter). Street parking in the area is also free on Sundays.