Registration and Host Guidebooks will be available beginning on Tuesday, September 9.
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 bright 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, September 9.
FAQs
Launched in 2016, The Big Table is a community-wide day of conversation. Through intentional dialogue, participants are encouraged to meet new people, share their lived experiences, and actively listen to build a kinder, more connected community where everyone has a seat at the table.
Amid an era 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 come together, knowing that we don’t have all the answers but by actively listening and engaging, we can acknowledge and address challenges and opportunities. By fostering a culture of curiosity and kindness, we can improve 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 and, ideally, some or all participants will be meeting each other for the first time.
All throughout central Ohio! 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, September 9.
As a Big Table 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 Tuesday, October 21, 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, September 9.
Email your questions to bigtable@columbusfoundation.org or call 614/545-3232.
2024 BIG TABLE HIGHLIGHTS
Through a survey, Big Table participants shared their ideas, stories, and feedback. Here is a snapshot of what they said!
Reflections from Past Participants
Whether you’ve hosted a Big Table conversation before or are getting involved for the first time, you have the power to bring people together for meaningful conversations about our shared future. Donte Woods-Spikes, a Big Table Ambassador who has hosted many conversations, sat down with five community members to discuss the value of being part of The Big Table and the lessons they’ve learned along the way.