Registration and the Host Guidebook will be available beginning on Tuesday, August 13.
Individuals and organizations are encouraged to host or join Big Table conversations on a topic that is important to them. Whatever you discuss, the goal of The Big Table is to build momentum toward a just and kind future for all.
Save the date! Click the button below to add The Big Table to your calendar. Registration and the Host Guidebook will be available on Tuesday, August 13.
FAQs
Launched in 2016, The Big Table is a community-wide day of conversation. Through intentional dialogue and connection, participants are encouraged to imagine the next steps toward a kind and just future for the central Ohio region. Meeting new people, sharing our lived experiences, and actively listening to understand are crucial steps toward building a kind, connected community where everyone has a seat at the table.
Download The Big Table Fact Sheet for more information.
Amid an epidemic of loneliness and isolation in our society, it is essential to prioritize opportunities for meaningful connection. The Big Table is an invitation for community members to connect, knowing that we don’t have all the answers, but by actively listening and engaging, together, we can acknowledge and address challenges and opportunities. By fostering a culture of curiosity and kindness, we can enhance our individual and collective well-being, opening doors for stronger social bonds and a more connected, resilient community.
Anyone can participate in The Big Table and everyone has a seat at the table! The more voices, experiences, and perspectives, the better.
Big Table discussions are facilitated by volunteer hosts equipped with a guidebook and materials. Most discussions will include 6-10 people; ideally, some or all participants will be meeting each other for the first time.
All throughout the central Ohio region! Conversations can take place anywhere—at a coffee shop, school, community center, library, place of worship, office building, parks, and even virtual spaces.
Registration to host and/or join a Big Table conversation will open on Tuesday, August 13.
As a host, you are committing to bringing together a group of people to collectively explore issues important to our community. Hosts believe in each person’s power to make a difference. Your conversation can happen any time on Wednesday, September 25, and in any place where guests feel comfortable.
The Columbus Foundation provides a Host Guidebook and materials for the conversation, but each host is encouraged to choose the conversation topic(s) and format, making the discussion their own. The Host Guidebook, which will include more information about hosting your own Big Table conversation, will be available beginning on Tuesday, August 13.
Email your questions to bigtable@columbusfoundation.org or call 614/545-3232.
-
2023 Big Table Highlights
Thanks to the participation of community members like you, last year’s Big Table was an inspiring day of kindness and conversation! Thank you for playing a role in creating a strong, connected community where everyone is valued. Read highlights of participant survey responses, the topics we talked about, and what we are learning together in this Big Table snapshot.
