Last week, I was honored to attend the quarterly community supper thrown by Big Table — the nonprofit that provides assistance on a referral basis to employees in the food service and hospitality industries who find themselves going through a rough patch. Big Table is based in Spokane, Wash., and its Nashville operation literally has a big table — a 45-foot-long one that seats 48 diners for a meal and fellowship. Invitees at the event included restaurant owners and current clients of their care program. The meal was prepared by Sarah and Karl Worley of Biscuit Love, and volunteers acted as servers for the evening.
While the meal was fantastic, the highlight was the opportunity to interact with the staff and clients of Big Table and hear their stories of what the organization has meant to their lives and this community. In addition to offering financial assistance to meet the immediate needs of workers who find themselves in crisis situations, Big Table care engagement coordinators continue to invest in their clients over the long term, offering counseling, coaching and encouragement to individuals dealing with mental health issues, addiction and the danger posed by the limited safety net available to many restaurant and hospitality workers.
The organization focused on helping workers in crisis is now accepting care referrals
I’ve written about Big Table and Nashville city director Jen Seger before, and the fact that the group established a full operation here in Nashville is a blessing to the local restaurant community that deserves our support. For examples of the sort of impact the organization has made to local individuals and the industry writ large, take a minute to read some of the stories from those they have helped through the years. We as diners should recognize the razor’s edge that many of those who serve us live on, where a brief setback can quickly spiral into addiction, eviction and serious mental health difficulties.
Outside of simply making direct donations, there are other ways we can help. You can participate in the referral process if you see someone going through rough times or adopt a restaurant and help to build a long-term relationship with Big Table and their services. Even easier (and more delicious!), you can make plans to attend the group’s biggest annual fundraiser “Eats Around the World” on Monday, Nov. 11, at the Franklin Marriott Cool Springs.Â
The gala tasting event and dinner will run from 5:30 until 9 p.m. and feature international cuisine focused on Spain and Thailand. In addition to the food, wine and spirits, the evening will feature live and silent auctions, live music and the chance to learn more about Big Table’s good works.
Tickets will go on sale soon, so mark your calendar and keep checking the event website for more info.
