You’ll probably agree that some of the best conversations and connections happen around the table – usually one that’s loaded with food. You’ll probably also agree that these sorts of get-togethers are too infrequent. That’s why, about this time last year, the Vancouver Foundation set the precedent for a synchronized, province-wide day of sharing ideas and food with its new ‘On the Table’ community building initiative.

After a successful first run in 2018, On the Table is once again inviting people across BC to set their tables for a whole new round of discussions from September 26th to October 3rd. Anyone can be a host, and the topic, food, exact date, setting and size of the event is entirely up to the host to decide, so you can do what feels most natural and inspiring to you. Gatherings can be intimate or public, potluck-style or a catered affair – the important part is bringing people together to talk freely, whether they’re friends, co-workers or complete strangers.

There’s no pressure to sort out the details in advance, either; so if you know you want to participate but feel too pressured to sort out the specifics ASAP then don’t stress – you’ve got time! (You can also join in on a discussion when the get-togethers go live after registration ends.)

The On the Table website is also loaded with written and video resources, and even a completely free print-at-home toolkit that includes a banner, poster and introspective conversation cards. If you’re still feeling intimidated, take a scroll through the On the Table Instagram to see what people got up to last year, have a skim through the 2018 report, and check out their video below. Then, get brainstorming here.