Who can register to organize a table?

Really, anyone! Individuals, companies, organizations (like Rotary) or cities. We just ask the lead organizer to invite 7-8 people from across your community to help create the gathering and set the table.

 

​

What does it mean to “set a table”?
Setting a table simply means gathering people—neighbors, colleagues, or strangers—around food and conversation. Your table can be:
 

• A dinner in your front yard

• A potluck at a park

• A gathering at a school, church, or community center

• A large, city-wide event

 

Just remember, we ask your table gathering has several intentional elements. See our 10 Commitments guide.

​

 

 

When do tables take place?
Tables can be hosted anytime between May and November 2026. You choose the date that works best for your community.

​​​

​

​

Do I have to follow a certain format? 
We have 10 Commitments - intentional things drawn from our 13 years of setting tables - we ask every Organizer to follow. Outside of these commitments, feel free to be as creative as you wish!

​

​

​

Why is Colorado one of the best states in our nation?

Because people like you are willing to give of themselves, their time, energy and presence to help people from all walks of life feel seen, connected and that they truly matter. 🙏

​

​

​

I want to participate, but I/we can't afford the registration fee.

We never want money to be a barrier to organizers, or guests who want a seat at the table. To apply for a grant to cover a portion of or all of your registration fee, click here. 

 

​

 

How big does my table need to be?
There is no minimum or maximum size. (Length insight: A table is as long as the number of people who sit at it: a 50-foot table sits 50 humans.)
 

• Small tables (20–30 people) are powerful and encouraged

• Medium tables (40–120 people) build broader connection and make significant impact

• Large tables (120+) create visible community impact

• X-Large tables (500+) require significant planning and volunteers, but catalyze massive impact in your community

 

Every table counts.

 

 

Who should be on the guest list?
Tables aren’t just for your friends and people you know (although they’re welcome!). We encourage you to invite a diverse mix of people:
 

• Different backgrounds, perspectives, and life experience

• People you already know and people you don’t

• Those who may feel disconnected or unseen

• Those who are often overlooked

 

The goal is not just gathering—it’s bridging.

 

​

 

Can I get sponsors or partners?
Yes—and we encourage it.
 

• Local businesses, organizations, and community leaders often:

• Contribute food, decorations or rentals

• Help fund and cover the costs of your table

• Become a Co-Host or Super-Host - hosts invite guests to the table and help guide conversation at the table.

• We provide guidance on how to approach sponsors and partners in our guides.

 

 

​

What support will I receive from Longer Tables?
As part of the campaign, you will receive:
 

• Detailed, step-by-step guides

• Conversation prompts and facilitation tip

• Branding and promotional material templates

• Connections to organizers across the state!

• Some really fun surprises along the way!

 

We’re your champion— as you bring the table to life.

 

 

 

What are the “rules” of the table?
To create deeper and meaningful connections at the table, we ask you to follow and share these rules with your guests:
 

• No job talk (focus on who you are, not what you do

• Come as you are (we want to experience the real you)

• Share stories around conversation prompts at the table (we provide these)

 

These create space for real, human connection.

 

 

 

What kind of team should I form?
We invite you to plan your table with 6-8 others who represent different parts of your community. 
As part of connecting your community, we guide you in recruiting hosts to invite guests and help co-create the table gathering, along with volunteers.
 

Types of Hosts
 

• Co-hosts (individuals helping fill tables)

• Super-hosts (organizations or companies)

• Kid-hosts

• Volunteers and community partners

 

Great tables are never built alone.

 

 

What happens after my table?
Your table is just the beginning of new connections, gatherings and relationships in your community.
 

We have an entire guide outlining ways you can use your table gathering to catalyze ongoing connection, as well as how to share the story, photos and video from your table gathering to inspire and invite more people to get involved in your community.
 

This campaign is about sparking ongoing connection, not just a one-time event.

​

​

​

What makes a “successful” table?
A successful table isn’t about size or perfection.
 

It’s about:

• People feeling seen and welcomed

• Honest, meaningful conversation

• New connections forming

 

If people leave feeling more connected than when they arrived—you did it.

 

​