Want to help others but not sure what really works?
We’re part of a movement that uses evidence and careful thinking to address the world’s most pressing problems—for people today and future generations.
We help you feel confident that the way you use your time, donations, and career truly helps others. We also offer a welcoming community where you can meet Houstonians who share your values and take action together.
Getting started is easy: Join the email list below to be notified of upcoming events, choose an event, and attend your first one.
Our Events
We run a mix of recurring and special events so there’s something for everyone:
Socials
(periodic; usually Saturday afternoons)
Relaxed, community-building events with EA-themed trivia or light games—no prep or prior background needed. Occasionally, we replace our regular Saturday discussion meetup (2–3:30 p.m. at Empire Café) with a social, keeping the same time but offering a lighter, more connection-focused format. Best for: first-timers, folks who want to reconnect with the community and socialize, and anyone who wants a low-pressure way to see what Houston EA is about.
Workshops
(every few months)
Hands-on, practical sessions on topics like:
- Effective Giving – how to donate where your dollars do the most good
- Effective Careers – pathways and next steps for high-impact work
- Workplace Advocacy & Volunteering – making a difference through your role and your time
Expect short talks, guided activities, and clear, actionable takeaways. Best for: newcomers and returning members who want step-by-step guidance.
Annual Community Picnic
A once-a-year gathering featuring casual conversations, food, and a relaxed way to meet people who care about doing good. Best for: everyone!
Weekly Discussion Meetups
(Saturdays at 2:00 p.m., Empire Café – 1732 Westheimer Rd, Houston, TX 77098)
Since 2023, we’ve met weekly for thoughtful, evidence-based discussions on high-impact topics. These are perfect for people who want regular, in-depth conversations and a consistent community to help improve their lives and impact. Drop-ins are always welcome.
The best way to see the most recent discussion topics and what people are sharing is through our Discord community. We also send updates through our email list. We’re planning to add each week’s topic to our Google Calendar as well. Topics are usually chosen at the end of each meeting and posted afterward.
To find us at a weekly meetup:
- Look for our sign on an outside table at Empire Cafe
- Or, message the Discord group so we can help you find the right table
What Is Effective Altruism?
Effective Altruism (EA) is a global movement and philosophy focused on using evidence and reason to figure out how to help others as much as possible—and then taking action.
At a high level, EA often involves:
- Prioritizing problems based on scale, neglectedness, and solvability
- Identifying effective solutions backed by strong evidence
- Continuously learning and adjusting as new information emerges
People apply EA principles in many ways, from donations and career choices to policy advocacy and scientific research.
Houston EA’s Unique Approach
At Houston EA, we align with the core principles of the global EA movement—but we also have our own community values that guide how we operate locally. These reflect what we’ve found works best for our group and our members.
Embracing Diversity
We believe our strength lies in the diverse experiences, backgrounds, and perspectives within our community. These differences deepen our understanding of complex issues and foster innovative thinking and actions.
Sharpening Critical Thinking Skills
Our discussions aren’t just about identifying actions but understanding why we choose certain paths. We encourage questioning, analyzing, and debating so members can form their own well-reasoned perspectives on how best to contribute to society.
Community Guidelines
To keep conversations respectful and constructive, we:
- Engage with kindness and openness
- Ensure everyone feels welcome to participate
- Keep disagreements relevant and respectful
- Handle controversial topics with care
Why Join Houston EA?
- Clarity – Feel confident your time, money, and career choices truly help.
- Community – Meet people who share your values and want to do good—together.
To stay updated on upcoming events: join our email list by entering your email below, subscribe to our Google Calendar and join our Discord community.
Houston Effective Altruism is a registered 501(c)3 nonprofit, supported by the Center for Effective Altruism.
Our team of dedicated organizers
Keirra Woodard
Keirra is an experienced leader, entrepreneur and University of Houston alum (BBA Marketing, Class of 2019). While she was a student, she founded the university’s Effective Altruism group. During the four years she managed the group, 50+ students completed the Arete Fellowship, an ~8 week introductory program to the effective altruism philosophy.
Since graduating, Keirra has stayed involved in the effective altruism community; she’s participated in various EA community events and conferences, including the EA Oxford In-Depth Fellowship and CEA group organizer’s retreat.
In addition to her work in EA, Keirra is a successful entrepreneur who founded and owns Forward Launch, a startup marketing consulting business.
Jon Flynn
Jon is a professor at Rice University and loves studying how our brains work. He has a special interest in how our brains communicate and how this affects what we see and hear.
When Jon isn’t teaching, he loves to share his knowledge with others. Jon is the lead representative of the Houston Chapter of the Society of Neuroscience. He also runs BrainSTEM, which teaches neuroscience to local middle and high school students, and Taste of Science Houston, which connects scientists to the local community.