Center For Inquiry West

The Center for Inquiry West is part of an international organization for secularists and skeptics; those who practice critical thinking skills instead of accepting dogma or faith. It serves as a place to socialize and network, make friends and celebrate life passages — the role usually played by church attendance. The office of SOS, Secular Organization for Sobriety, the non faith based self help group for those grappling with addiction, is at CFI West, as well as IIG, the Independent Investigations Group, whose members investigate claims of the paranormal from a scientific perspective. (Small annual membership fee required, but the first two meetings are free.)
Along with the monthly book club meeting, and twice monthly Feed Your Brain lectures, there is plenty to do — and free parking! Some other groups that meet at CFI are GALAH (Gay and Lesbian Atheists and Humanists), Spanish Speaking Atheists, and Freethinkers Toastmasters. There is a weekly ebulletin with reminders of upcoming lectures and other activities, for those who wish to receive it. There is a modest annual membership fee, but those who want to can pay for just the lectures they want to attend.
I discovered this place about ten years ago because of the display ads in the magazine Skeptical Inquirer, and have been attending and volunteering ever since. The staff members are kind and creative, and it’s great to feel accepted as a member of this community.

CFI-​LA is the best place for critical thinkers of all stripes to challenge their thinking and encounter new people and new ideas. The Feed Your Brain lectures feature current authors and film makers. The Book Club provides some of the best conversations I’ve had. The monthly Café Inquiry features the same stimulating ideas as the lectures, but in a more laid back setting. The Independent Investigations Group meets here monthly to investigate claims of the paranormal. There’s so much more, and so many opportunities to socialize and get involved.
This building is also home to Secular Organizations for Sobriety, Atheists United, and The Steve Allen Theater, which has an awesome lineup of plays, music and comedy acts.