Happy New Year's, UL! Glad you're scouting fun things that will bring a little joy and friendship to your life!
Just want to offer up an idea: As some of you know, I enrolled in a Master Gardener class last fall. Believe me, even though I have backyard gardens, I started out as a total beginner in terms of really knowing gardening. It has been amazing!! (BTW, I little bragging--I got a 97% on my midterm a couple of weeks ago!).
The benefit of a Master Gardener program vs community gardening is it's more intense. You're going with a goal of not only learning, but ultimately being a community resource. It's really rewarding!
I googled Master Gardener programs in Ohio and there's one at OSU: https://franklin.osu.edu/program-are...ener-volunteer. Is that anywhere near you?
It starts in January, so you may be able to slip in. At least in the Rutgers MG class, the cost is 0. You only pay for the materials for a year-long class. It's such a gift!
This is just a thought. I've really enjoyed it. Yes, there are a lot of old ladies like me, but we also have younger men and women. It's a diverse class, and fun.