DC Bridge Club by Tempest - FREE

The Location

Bridge Club will meet in the SOE Meeting Room in the basement. There is an accessibility ramp on the north side of the building. The closest metro stop is Eastern Market (orange, blue and silver lines).

What is Bridge Club by Tempest?

Bridge Club is an in-person, community-led support group currently open to all women and gender non-conforming individuals who are interested in sobriety and follow the group guidelines. Our mission is to empower individuals seeking connection to find and build meaningful relationships that support a sober lifestyle.

We believe that sobriety isn’t our great consequence, it’s our chance to become who we were always meant to be. It’s the foundation of our great adventure, where we decide what makes us feel happy and connected.

What to expect at our Monthly Bridge Club gathering?

Our signature Bridge Club gathering is a monthly event where sober or sober curious folks meet to share and make meaningful connections. It’s a way to anchor our community and ensure that we have a physical space to engage in intimate conversations and process what’s happening in our recovery and our lives.

Each event is crafted in a way to make sure that all who come are seen and spoken to, so connections are made, and so that we are each left stronger by knowing each other a little bit more intimately. Think—relaxing music, light snacks, small groups, and more fizzy water than one person could ever drink.

FAQS

Q: What is Bridge Club?

A: Bridge Club is an intimate gathering of people who want to be free from the destructive power of alcohol. We don’t just want to quit drinking—we want to build a life that’s full, authentic, and empowered. Bridge Club is an opportunity to connect with others on a path to freedom. Whether you are sober or curious about sobriety, you’re welcome.

Q: Is Bridge Club similar to AA or other 12-step meetings?

A: Bridge Club does not follow a 12-step recovery model. Bridge Club uses Tempest’s recovery approach and looks at every individual's mind, body, relationships and environment to ground the recovery process. Through meditation and breathing, group discussions and exercises, Bridge Club members have the opportunity to explore and make informed choices about building a healthier lifestyle while building connections with other folks on a similar path.

Q: Do I have to pay to attend?

No! Bridge club is free. Just RSVP for the event you’d like to attend!

Q: Who is welcome at Bridge Club?

A: Bridge club is currently open to all women and gender non-conforming individuals who are interested in sobriety and follow the group guidelines. While you don’t need to have accumulated sober time, you will be asked to leave if you attend a Bridge Club under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Q: What’s the purpose of Bridge Club?

A: The goal of Bridge Club is to build a sacred and supportive space for people to connect, share, and provide support while building relationships that extend beyond Bridge Club and into daily life.

Q: How often does Bridge Club meet?

A: For now, we typically meet once monthly.

Q: What is Bridge Club like?

A: In its current form, Bridge Club begins with an opening meditation and group introductions. After getting to know each other, the host introduces a discussion topic. Then, we break out into small groups to ensure everyone has the chance to share and be heard. We come back together at the end to discuss what we talked about in our groups and hold a brief ending meditation. Bridge Club events last about an hour and a half and we limit the number of attendees to about thirty to preserve an intimate atmosphere. There are typically light snacks and beverages.

Q: How do I attend Bridge Club events? Do I just show up?

A: Sign up here to receive updates and invites to Bridge Club. Keep in mind that we’re rolling out very slowly and intentionally. For now, Bridge Club is only operating in New York City, San Francisco, Portland, Los Angeles, Kansas City, Denver, Austin, and Charlotte. We’ll be in touch as we grow.

Q: Do you have to go through HSS or TSS to attend Bridge Club?

A: No. Just make sure to register your interest and RSVP for upcoming events when you receive invitations.

Q: How can I get involved with Bridge Club?

To join a Bridge Club in your city, please visit our program page here and follow the links for the group you’re interested in. We are launching 35 groups in new cities this year. To bring Bridge Club to your area, apply to be a Bridge Club Volunteer Host or Volunteer Social Event Coordinator.

Q: Can I/ How do I start a Bridge Club chapter in my city?

A: Yes! We are bringing Bridge Club to (35) new location in 2020. We are looking for individuals who are interested in working closely with our team to launch new community-led meetings. You can apply to be a Bridge Club Volunteer Host or Volunteer Social Event Coordinator. Please indicate the city where you live. For more details on how to launch a new group, email hello@jointempest.com.

Q: I want to be a host for Bridge Club. What are next steps?

A: See answer above.

Q: When are you coming to [insert location]?

A: Bridge Club is JUST starting out and we are launching events in new locations very slowly. For now, we’re operating in New York City, San Francisco, Portland, Los Angeles, Kansas City, Denver, Austin, and Charlotte City. Register here to stay in the loop and find out when we come to your city! We are looking for individuals who are interested in working closely with our team to launch new community-led meetings. You can apply to be a Bridge Club Volunteer Host or Volunteer Social Event Coordinator. Please indicate the city where you live. For more details on how to launch a new group, email hello@jointempest.com.

Q: Can I attend Bridge Club if I’m still drinking or doing drugs?

A: While you don't need to have accumulated sober/clean time to be a part of Bridge Club, you can’t be under the influence of drugs or alcohol while in attendance. Anyone who is under the influence will be asked to leave.

Q: Is Bridge Club Anonymous?

A: What happens in Bridge Club, stays in Bridge Club. This means we do not share quotes, identifying details, or photos of other attendees without permission. You are welcome to tell others that you attend Bridge Club events, but please do not break the anonymity of fellow attendees.

Q: Are men allowed at Bridge Club?

A: For now, Bridge Club is only open to women and gender non-conforming individuals. We will be piloting groups in the year ahead that will target new audiences and be available to all genders. Our commitment will remain the same, providing a protected and safe space for individuals who have been traditionally left out or marginalized by mainstream recovery groups