My name is Kiki, and I’m working to bring back The Cookout Onliner, a community app created by and for Black folks. If you’re new to my story, The Cookout was once a thriving, invitation-only platform where Black people could connect, share, and feel truly safe. It was intentionally pro-Black, anti-sexist, and pro-queer, with a unique system that made everyone intentional about who they invited. For many, it was the first time they experienced a social space where harassment was actively addressed and community safety was a priority.

Unfortunately, the original platform was derailed by intellectual property infringement and confusion caused by others raising money under our name. This made it impossible to secure the support we needed to keep The Cookout going, and it broke my heart to see such a vital space disappear. Since then, I’ve been working hard to rebuild from the ground up, learning from past challenges and designing a new, original experience. Every day, people reach out to ask when The Cookout will return, because nothing else like it exists.

Now, I’m asking for your help to make this vision a reality. The funds raised will go directly toward development costs, labor, and legal protection so The Cookout can launch safely and sustainably, and provide a secure, welcoming space for our community. Your support means everything. I invite you to be part of this journey with me, and together, we can create a lasting, safe space where Black folks can thrive.