All throughout the central Ohio region! Conversations can take place anywhere – at a coffee shop, school, community center, library, house, place of worship, office building, parks, and even virtual spaces.

There are many public Big Table conversations throughout central Ohio, including at Columbus Metropolitan Library branches, YMCA of Central Ohio locations, and on Zoom. Click here to find one near you!

Launched in 2016, The Big Table® is a day dedicated to community-wide conversation. Through intentional dialogue and connection, participants are encouraged to imagine the next steps toward a kind and just future for all. The Columbus Foundation provides a Host Guidebook and materials for the conversation, but each host makes the discussion their own. Meeting new people, sharing our lived experiences, and actively listening are crucial steps toward building a kind, connected central Ohio region where everyone has a seat at the table. 

Download The Big Table Fact Sheet for more information.

Anyone can host or participate in a Big Table conversation. Everyone has a seat at the table! The more voices, 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.  

For hosts, view the Host Guidebook (available in English, Spanish, and Arabic; Somali coming soon) for more information on how to prepare for your Big Table conversation!

There are several ways you can take part in this community-wide effort. See below for more information on how you can host a Big Table conversation, register to participate in a Big Table event, and promote your involvement on social media using the hashtag #TheBigTable.

Host a Big Table Conversation

Participate in a Public Conversation

If you have additional questions, please contact us at bigtable@columbusfoundation.org or 614/545-0841.

As neighbors with interconnected lives in an ever-changing, increasingly polarized, and fast-paced world, we can choose to slow down and listen to one another to prepare for whatever tomorrow may bring. Socially connected communities are more trusting, resilient, prosperous, safe, and healthy. Being ready for the opportunities and challenges ahead starts with widening our circles and listening to understand.   

Watch this video featuring Donte Woods-Spikes, previous Big Table host and local creative, on why you should take part in The Big Table!

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, October 11, and in any place where guests feel comfortable.

• As a host, you will:  
• Identify and secure a location and time for your conversation to take place on Wednesday, October 11.
• Register as a host here 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, or you can choose to have a more open-ended discussion utilizing the suggested conversation prompts and/or allowing participants to shape the direction of the conversation.
• 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 English, Spanish, and Arabic; Somali coming soon) for more information on how to prepare to be a host!

Contact us at bigtable@columbusfoundation.org or 614/545-0841.