SUPPORT THE OPEN TABLE
During this COVID-19 crisis, we are facing the unknown which is undoubtedly mentally, physically, and spiritually exhausting. Yet, in the midst of this crisis, we have also seen incredible community emerge. People are reorienting what is most important to them as we realize that we need each other now more than ever. It is during this time that we are asking you to consider supporting The Open Table, a community committed to working toward the liberation of all and where all people have the power to pursue their dreams and ambitions.
Like many organizations, The Open Table’s sustainability has been affected by the COVID-19 crisis. We have had to cancel spring fundraising events and lack important revenue from regular gatherings and antiracism trainings. We humbly ask you for your help to continue this vital work of spiritual care and antiracism in our community. If you haven’t given, consider making a recurring gift, or maybe even a one-time gift. If you are giving a recurring gift already, consider increasing that gift by $15-$50/month. Our fundraising goal for this year is $100,000, and we think we can get there. We invite you to consider partnering with us as we seek to be a community of peace and justice in a city divided.
THE OPEN TABLE’S ACCOMPLISHMENTS
COMMUNITY SUPPORT
The Open Table has fed over 7,000 people during our community gatherings over the past five years. We continue to be a place of refuge and belonging for people who have felt excluded from the church or who have given up on the church altogether. Together, we are building community among people from different racial, class, gender identity, age, status, and faith backgrounds.
CONSISTENT GROWTH
The Open Table began as a small group of about 12 and is now averaging 70 to 80 in attendance (quintupled!). The staff team has grown from one to five members: two full-time, two one-year Residents co-sponsored by our denominational partner, and one AmeriCorps VISTA position who helps support our antiracism training work.
ANTIRACISM WORK
Our antiracism trainers have trained over 2,500 people from over 30 institutions and continue to organize people around KC to build communities of peace and reconciliation. Some of the organizations that we have trained include Avila University, William Jewell College, PCUSA denomination, Headstart, Jewish Vocational Services, Gladstone Elementary, United Way of Greater KC, and MO Coalition for Community Behavioral Healthcare. The antiracism cohort is currently preparing to train a new group of trainers as well as developing new curriculum.
WHAT YOUR DONATION SUPPORTS
We need your support to keep this community alive and thriving. The Open Table has a modest $120,000 annual budget which covers two full-time staff to support the work of the spiritual community and the antiracism training cohort, the cost of food for 80 people at each gathering, leader honorariums, a community benevolence fund, and other overhead costs. Here is how your donation will help:
