About Michigan Sober Social

Connection. Community. Belonging.

Michigan Sober Social is a statewide nonprofit community bringing people together to build real friendships, shared experiences, and meaningful connection — without alcohol at the center.

Across Michigan, more and more people are choosing a different kind of social life. One rooted in clarity, fun, and genuine connection.

Michigan Sober Social exists to make that possible.

We create welcoming spaces where people can show up as themselves, meet others, and build friendships that feel real.

A group of people in a forest campsite, engaged in conversation and activities, surrounded by tents and camping gear.

Why Michigan Sober Social Exists

For many adults, social life revolves around drinking. But many people today are choosing something different.

What they all have in common is something simple:

Michigan Sober Social was created to make those connections easier to find.

A pickleball paddle with a colorful stripe rests on a blue court next to a bright yellow pickleball.

A Different Kind of Social Experience

Michigan Sober Social hosts events across the state designed to bring people together in ways that feel welcoming, relaxed, and fun.

Our hangs include things like:

These experiences allow people to meet others who value connection, conversation, and shared experiences.

A Community That’s Growing

What started as a small idea has grown into a statewide network of people building friendships and connection across Michigan.

Michigan Sober Social is now:

More importantly.

Its a place where all feel welcomed.

A group of people in casual attire is setting up folding chairs around tables in a bright, spacious room.

A group of six people sitting together on a bench at the beach, smiling and wearing sunglasses, with playground equipment in the background.

What Happens When People Join

When people become part of Michigan Sober Social, something powerful happens.

They discover:

What once felt isolating becomes something completely different. It becomes community.

Our Mission

Michigan Sober Social exists to create welcoming spaces where people can experience connection, fun, and belonging without alcohol at the center.

We believe:

And everyone deserves a place where they belong.
A group of people smiles around a large Jenga tower, with flags and framed photos in the background.

Join the Community

Michigan Sober Social continues to grow because people across Michigan are choosing to build a different kind of social culture.

Join the community and experience it for yourself.

Our Values

Connection, Fun and Support for All

Connection

We put human connection first — real, honest, open conversations and social networking.

inclusion

Everyone is welcome. All identities, all stories, all walks of life.

Rad Times

Sobriety isn’t just about abstaining — it’s about rediscovering fun without the buzz.

Community Support

We show up for each other. No judgment. Just encouragement, honesty, and love.

The Journey

How It Started

What began as a simple gathering quickly grew into something much bigger. Michigan Sober Social was built through connection, community, and a shared belief that sober people deserve real spaces to belong.

2023

A Simple Collaboration

Co-founders Kelley Carter and Austin Margilia hosted a simple Jenga tournament. What started as one casual event sparked an idea worth growing — a space for sober connection, community, and something more.

2023

SOcail growth

As the Facebook group grew, it became clear there was a real need for in-person community. Collaboration with others in sobriety began to grow, and weekly events started creating meaningful momentum.

2024

A Bigger Vision

A large-scale comedy night helped show what was possible. It became clear this was more than a few events — it was something worth building well. A board was established, and plans were set in motion to form a 501(c)(3).

2025-26

Volunteers Stepped Up

As Michigan Sober Social continued to grow, volunteers stepped up in a big way to help keep the momentum going. Their leadership, consistency, and heart helped make it possible to host hundreds of events and create even more opportunities for sober connection across Michigan.

2026

A New Chapter of Growth

With official 501(c)(3) status secured in 2026, Michigan Sober Social entered a new chapter. Fundraising efforts officially launched to support future events, expand outreach, and build a stronger foundation for long-term impact.

Join The Movement

This isn’t just our story — it’s yours.

A group of five friends joyfully holds ice cream cones outside an ice cream shop, laughing and enjoying each other's company.