Finding Friendship, Purpose, and Community: My Journey With Cincy Girls Who

I first discovered Cincy Girls Who on Instagram sometime in the summer of 2022. I remember seeing a post about what I think was one of the very first walks. I was so bummed because I couldn’t make the first several walks due to prior commitments. So when a free weekend finally came along, I was genuinely excited that I could finally show up.

At that time in my life, things felt a little off. I had just switched to working remotely full-time right as everyone else seemed to be going back into their offices. I was lonely. I wanted deeper friendships (quality over quantity) and I didn’t feel like I had that locally. I also felt this strange void, watching friends get promoted, move abroad, or have babies while I had just made a career switch into a very entry-level role. I knew I needed connection, but more importantly, I needed purpose.

Taking That First Step

Walking into my first CGW event, I was very anxious. I almost talked myself out of going altogether.

But I had my dog Shelby with me, which helped. Worst case scenario, I told myself, she needed a walk anyway so at least the drive wouldn’t be wasted.

Of course, Shelby needs a shoutout!

But the moment I joined the group, everything felt easier. People were warm, kind, and genuinely interested in connecting. I left feeling relieved and pleasantly surprised by how natural the conversations were. That one decision to show up ended up being life-changing.

The Moments That Matter

Some of the most meaningful CGW moments for me are the small ones.

Watching two girls exchange numbers. Seeing photos of women grabbing coffee together outside of official events. Noticing friendships forming in real time.

Those moments remind me of our mission and of everything CGW has given me. They show the impact this community has on so many women across Cincinnati.

CGW has absolutely changed the way I feel about living here. I don’t know if I would have stayed in Cincinnati as long as I have without finding this community. I’ve met some of my closest friends through these walks. I’ve found belonging.

Growing Through Community

CGW has helped me grow in more ways than I expected. It has pushed me outside of my comfort zone simply by encouraging me to show up. It also nudged me to try new activities like trampoline workouts and sound baths that I never would have done on my own.

The biggest impact has been on my mental health. Even on the days when I didn’t want to leave the house, CGW got me outside, moving, talking, connecting. Those little pushes mattered.

Through this journey, I’ve also learned so much about myself. I discovered leadership skills I didn’t realize I had. I found out I’m more outgoing than I ever gave myself credit for. And every time I look back, I feel proud that I showed up for that first walk because it connected me with others and also with myself.

Four Years Later: What CGW Means to Me

What started as a way to meet new people (and get my dog’s walk done) has turned into four years of deep friendships, new experiences, and personal growth. I’ve been part of the leadership team for two years now, which has allowed me to support the same kind of connections that once supported me.

CGW means community, self-care, feminism, women supporting women, and showing up for yourself. It has shaped my Cincinnati story and added so much joy, purpose, and friendship to my life.