Question 1

Is this amazing event really free?

Accepted Answer

YES! There is no charge to attend this dinner. This is a potluck, so we ask everyone to consider bringing a dish (appetizer, main, dessert, or nonalcoholic beverage) to share. A donation to Community Plate is welcome and can be made at the door, or online at https://communityplate.me/donate

Question 2

Do I have to bring a dish?

Accepted Answer

While we hope that everyone who comes to a Story Sharing Supper will bring food to share, if bringing something is an impediment to participation, then feel free to come without a dish. There is always plenty of food, and bringing yourself and your stories is a gift of community as well!

Question 3

What should I bring?

Accepted Answer

Bring a dish to share (and serving utensils if needed), and it can be anything at all! If it has a story behind it even better! What you bring doesn't have to be something you make. If there's a store bought food that has a story, bring that! And you don't HAVE to bring anything - just you is ok!

Question 4

Do I have to share a story?

Accepted Answer

No, if you don’t have a story to share, or don’t want to share a story, focus on listening! Sharing stories requires at least two people. In order for stories to be successfully shared, there needs to be someone listening. We welcome story sharers and listeners alike!

Question 5

What’s the difference between story sharing and storytelling?

Accepted Answer

Storytelling is an art form that is practiced and performed. Story sharing is how human beings communicate with one another. It’s how we learn from one another, make connections, and establish common ground. Everyone can share a story.  Story sharing is an act of community building.

Question 6

Are children invited?

Accepted Answer

Yes! We love creating opportunities where intergenerational connections are possible. Parents will be asked to supervise their children during the event. You know whether your kids will enjoy an event like this. If so, please bring them! If you are not sure, reach out to us with any questions.

Question 7

Is alcohol allowed?

Accepted Answer

Because this is a public event, and there may be children in attendance, we ask that you not bring alcohol as your contribution for the potluck. Smoking and vaping is also not allowed at the supper.

Question 8

I have dietary restrictions, how will I know what I can eat?

Accepted Answer

When guests arrive, everyone is instructed to fill out a “recipe card” that will include your name, your dish, your story, and a list of any ingredients that may be things someone with dietary restrictions might need to avoid, for example: meat, dairy, fish, eggs, nuts, gluten, etc.

Question 9

Do you need me to bring my recipe?

Accepted Answer

Yes! In the weeks following the Story Sharing Supper, we’re going to create a mini community cookbook made up of the recipes and stories shared at the supper. Everyone who attends the supper will get a copy to commemorate the evening and the community we created together.

Question 10

How do I tell a story at the Supper?

Accepted Answer

If you are interested in telling a story, please contact us at community@communityplate.me. We would love to hear from you! Stories should be about food, community, or tie (in some way) into the theme of the evening, and need to be in line with our policy on inclusion and belonging. See our website.

Question 11

How do I register?

Accepted Answer

Register through our Eventbrite site. All of our suppers have limited space. There may be a waiting list of people who would like to attend. If for any reason after registering you cannot make it, please let us know as soon as possible so another member of the community may attend. Thank you!

Question 12

Who do I contact for other questions?

Accepted Answer

If you have any other questions, please feel free to reach out to us at community@communityplate.me !

Story Sharing Potluck Supper - Westbrook