In an ever-changing and challenging world, prioritizing conversation and social connection are more important than ever. By meeting new people, sharing our lived experiences, and actively listening to one another, we can help build a kinder, more connected community where everyone has a seat at the table.
The Big Table is free and open to all!
Sign up below to host* your own conversation or join a public conversation near you.
Together, we can inspire a culture of connection and kindness, one conversation at a time.
*Hosts are not required to register. However, if you choose to register, you’ll receive additional resources and supplies for your Big Table.
HOST A CONVERSATION
Bringing together your own Big Table conversation is easy and rewarding! Check out the Host Guidebook for everything you need to know about hosting your conversation.
Still have questions? Watch highlights from last year's Host Information Sessions here.
JOIN A PUBLIC CONVERSATION
The Big Table is about giving everyone an opportunity to share their voice. Help us build a kind, connected community by signing up to participate in a public Big Table conversation near you.
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.
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.
Everyone has a seat at the table! Hosts are encouraged to use the Host Guidebook (available in Arabic, English, Nepali, Somali, and Spanish) to prepare for their Big Table conversation!
All throughout central Ohio! Conversations can take place anywhere—at a coffee shop, school, community center, library, house, place of worship, office building, parks, or even virtual spaces.
Big Table conversations open to all are happening throughout central Ohio, including at Columbus Metropolitan Library branches, YMCA of Central Ohio locations, and on Zoom. Click here to find one near you!
There are several ways you can take part in this community-wide effort. See below for more information on how you can host your own Big Table conversation and register to participate in a Big Table event. Be sure to promote your involvement on social media using the hashtag, #TheBigTable!
Participate in a Public Conversation
If you have additional questions, please contact us at bigtable@columbusfoundation.org or 614/545-3232.
As a Big Table host, you’ll:
- Identify and secure a location and time for your conversation to take place on Wednesday, September 25.
- Register as a host to reserve supplies for your conversation. Hosts will be notified by email when the supplies are available to be picked up.
- Select a community topic (housing, education, etc.) for your Big Table conversation. You can also choose to have a more open-ended discussion using the suggested conversation prompts and/or by encouraging participants to shape the conversation's direction.
- Recruit 6 to 10 people and coordinate RSVPs for your Big Table conversation.
- Serve as your group’s conversation facilitator and ensure all voices are heard.
- Complete a brief survey after your conversation and encourage your guests to do the same.
View the Host Guidebook (available in Arabic, English, Nepali, Somali, and Spanish) for more information on how to prepare to be a host!
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.
Public Table Partners
