Placing Community Conversations “On the Table” [Meet Your Neighbor]

“Community” is a word that gets used quite frequently in conversation….and we all wish to strengthen our home communities. But quite often, it can get mired into very high-end thinking with little action. In celebrating its hundredth year, the Chicago Community Trust is putting on a year-long celebration of community-based philanthropy, and on May 12th, they are kicking off their anniversary by putting that conversation….On the Table.

On The Table is the name of Chicago Community Trust’s initiative to encourage Chicago residents to begin talking about philanthropy, and how their efforts can make a difference in their community. It is an ambitious year-long effort to better engage the greater Chicago community in fostering these conversations. After a contentious election that focused on community-based efforts, this is a conversation that is sorely needed in our city.

Plans are afoot to hold conversations at various sites on May 12th…and this is where you can make an impact. On The Table is looking for people to either host events or attend as guests. All those invited are asked one simple task: discuss the ways in which we can commit to making our communities stronger, safer and more dynamic – communities where opportunities grow, quality of life is enhanced and families thrive.

It may seem rather superficial, but great efforts have been sparked by small groups banding together. As a former community organizer myself, I understand the difficulty – and importance – of gathering people towards a common end. (As a blogger, my hope is to foster conversations, especially around topics that normally do not receive the attention that they deserve).

It may not seem like much….but it’s a sorely needed first step towards a greater conversation. Nonprofits, social ventures, and other organizations work to make a positive impact – now, there is the opportunity for individuals to learn how to make a positive impact.

I know I’ll be attending – won’t you? For more details (and to sign up as either guest or host), please visit http://www.onthetable.com

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