The Athens County Foundation is launching a new initiative called The Community Table. Throughout the year, community members representing different backgrounds, neighborhoods and interest groups will join in conversations to connect and discuss the future of our community.

The Athens County Foundation believes inviting people into conversations that matter builds resilience as individuals and as a collective. And that the wisdom of the collective is what stewards real change. We have invited over 20 people in Athens to train in the Art of Hosting facilitation techniques and these people use their skills in their work and on behalf of the Foundation. This project is another tool in this work. The Foundation’s goals are to get people talking and to inform the work of the Foundation going forward.

The Community Table is designed to bolster understanding in these challenging times. By coming together around tables, everyone has the opportunity to talk, listen, and learn from each. Table hosts will provide the space for authentic human connection and civic engagement.

The Foundation is inviting people in Athens County who are interested in hosting a conversation to contact us. Your event can happen on any day and time that works for you and your guests in a space where everyone is comfortable. Food and drink can range from light snacks to full-course meals. The only requirement is that hosts provide productive environments for authentic conversations about the community.

Hosts will be asked to invite 8-12 people to participate and are encouraged to have a good mix of experiences and perspectives. This is a great chance to invite people who you may not spend much time with socially or do not know at all.

If you are interested in hosting a conversation, please call (740) 594-6061 or email shayne@athensfoundation.org.  Hosts will be required to attend a short training prior to scheduling your Community Table conversation.

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