Photo by RJ Schmidt on Flickr.

If we want to make our region better, we have to get involved in the community beyond just reading—that’s why we put together a weekly list of events for you to consider attending. Next week, take a dive into how WMATA’s budget works with the Coalition for Smarter Growth and a panel of experts.

Funding is a huge issue for Metro, from recent ideas to cut service to the ongoing question of what role, exactly, the jurisdictions the system serves should play in making sure it stays up and running. It’s extremely important to understand how we got into the current financial situation and how we can move toward reliable funding to provide a stable future for Metro.

Next Wednesday, October 26, at Georgetown University of Urban and Regional Planning (640 Massachusetts Avenue), the Coalition for Smarter Growth will moderate a fireside chat with seven experts, including DC Councilmember Jack Evans and Maryland state delegate Marc Korman. After that, the audience will have a chance to ask questions. RSVP now for details.

Can’t make it? The event will also be livestreamed here on Greater Greater Washington.

Below, check out more ways to get involved beyond the Metro forum!

Next Tuesday, October 25: Join Greater Greater Washington at RFD in Chinatown (810 7th Street NW) for our monthly happy hour to hang out with readers, contributors, and the winner of the MetroGreater contest! If you think our region is great and can be greater, please RSVP today!

Tuesday, October 18: Local beer. Tasty treats. Fun prizes. Good conversation. Supporting more walkable, transit-oriented places. What’s not to love? Join Coalition for Smarter Growth this Tuesday, October 18, at 6:30 pm at the North Hall of Eastern Market (225 7th Street NE) for the Smart Growth Social. You don’t want to miss this party! Grab your ticket now or buy at the door.

Wednesday, October 19: A major project is in the works to renovate Union Station’s transit concourse, the area where passengers wait for Amtrak and MARC trains. Head over to a meeting this Wednesday, from 4 pm to 7 pm to see the latest design and hear about the environmental impact study. The meeting will be in the East Hall of Union Station (50 Massachusetts Avenue NE).

Wednesday, October 19, and various dates to come: DC’s Comprehensive Plan, the guidebook for where and how to grow, is due for an update. We need your help to make it the best it can be. There are meetings all over the city over the next few weeks, starting this Wednesday at 6pm at 3101 16th St NW. Find the one closest to you, attend a meeting, and weigh in to have a real impact on the future of DC.

Thursday, October 20: Metro has proposed cuts to late night service, but the agency also wants your feedback. This Thursday, October 20th, there will be an all-day open house where you can weigh in and make your opinion heard. It’s from noon to 10 pm at Metro’s headquarters (600 5th Street NW). There is plenty of time to weigh in, make sure you make your opinion heard.

Saturday, October 22: With the new UDC Student Center, the Art Deco-inspired Park Van Ness, and the new WAMU offices, Van Ness, a once quiet stop on the Red Line, is awakening. Hear from local experts and architects at a walking tour on Saturday, October 22 at 10 am. RSVP for details.

Calendar: Beyond what we’ve highlighted here, there are many other worthwhile events across the region. Check out more great events in our events calendar:

Do you know of an upcoming event that may be interesting, relevant, or important to Greater Greater Washington readers that should go on our events calendar? Send it to us at events@ggwash.org.

Claire Jaffe was born in DC and now lives in the U Street area. She is a University of Michigan graduate and currently works at Coalition for Smarter Growth. On her off time, Claire can be found biking the street of DC or exploring the many green spaces throughout the region.