May 10 mealtime conversations across Chicagoland will unite residents,
inspire new solutions to strengthen the region
Media Contact: Katelyn Yoshimoto
katelyn_yoshimoto@jtpr.com
312-573-5492
CHICAGO – February 23, 2016 – The Chicago Community Trust today announced the return of its region-wide civic engagement initiative On the Table on Tuesday, May 10. On the Table, entering its third year, has provided a platform for Chicago-area residents—40,000 total over the past two years—to come together as a community in small groups and talk about ways to make their neighborhoods stronger, safer and more dynamic.
On the Table is designed to elevate civic conversation, foster new relationships and create a unifying experience across our region.
“When we come together as a community with a shared commitment to listen, we learn from and with each other. We form and deepen our relationships with neighbors, friends and co-workers,” said Terry Mazany, president and CEO of The Chicago Community Trust. “From these relationships we will draw the collective power to impact both neighborhoods and lives.”
The Trust launched its On the Table initiative in May of 2014 to elevate the invaluable act of convening for meaningful conversation – no matter the topic, location or time of day. The premise of On the Table in 2016 remains the same. Mealtime conversations—breakfast, lunch, dinner and everything in between—can take place at private residences, local restaurants, places of worship, libraries, offices, in backyards and other community locations. They can be sit-down, catered, picnic, or potluck—it is entirely up to the host on how the meal is designed.
“This act of coming together has never been more important and we encourage residents to join us by hosting an On the Table conversation,” said Cheryl Hughes, senior director of strategic initiatives at The Chicago Community Trust. “These conversations will inspire collaboration and action as they have in years past, driving progress across the region.”
The Trust aims to engage more individuals this year than ever, expanding On the Table’s diverse reach to ensure that all Chicago-area residents have an opportunity to have their voice heard. The Trust will offer a number of information sessions throughout the region leading up to May 10, as a way to share information about On the Table and what it means to host a conversation. Dates, times and locations can be found at www.onthetable.eventbrite.com.
To learn more or to sign up to host an On the Table conversation, visit www.onthetable.com or call 866-737-6951. Join the On the Table 2016 conversation on social media using the hashtag #OnTheTable2016.
