Engage

The Engage page is your hub for connection at The Gathered Table. Here, you can explore upcoming community events, nominate a neighbor for a monthly soup surprise, join the community as a volunteer, and read heartfelt stories from local residents through our Sota Stories blog.

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Upcoming events

  • April 2026 Pick-Up Orders

    Thursday, April 23 | 5-8 p.m.
    Mount Hope Lutheran Church Bloomington, MN

    Each month, we prepare a rotating selection of comforting, culturally inspired soups for easy pick-up. Order ahead, grab your favorites, and keep warmth on hand at home.

    Fill My Bowl

  • The Great Gathering | A Community Building Experience

    Saturday, May 2, 2026 | 1-4 p.m.

    Mount Hope Lutheran Church

    3601 W. Old Shakopee Rd, Bloomington, MN 55431

    The Great Gathering is a community-centered event designed to bring people together through shared experiences, creativity, and conversation.

    We’re creating a space where you can spend time, explore different activities, and connect with others in a way that feels natural and low-pressure.

    Throughout the event, there will be facilitated experiences and activities rooted in five areas of community building:

    • Create & Express
    • Gather & Grow
    • Live & Learn
    • Nature & Nurture
    • Relax & Reflect

    Each space will offer something a little different! You’re free to move through them at your own pace, join in, or simply take it all in.

    You can come with others or come on your own.

    We’re still finalizing details around programming and logistics, but wanted to start sharing early for anyone who might want to be part of it.

    We are also vetting for volunteers and potential facilitators. If this is something you may be interested in, send us a message!

    More information coming soon.

    RSVP

Join The Gathered Table Community Crew

The Gathered Table is more than food, it’s about connection, culture, and creating spaces where people feel seen and valued.

As we continue to grow, we’re building a Community Crew of individuals who want to be part of bringing these experiences to life. These are stipend opportunities to support events, food service, storytelling, and community engagement.

Whether you love cooking, organizing, creating, or simply showing up for community, there’s a place for you here.

Sign up

Nominate a Neighbor

Nominate a Neighbor

We believe connection starts with simple acts of care. Our Nominate a Neighbor program invites community members to recognize someone who deserves a little extra warmth: whether it’s for their kindness, resilience, service, or quiet contributions that often go unnoticed.

Each month, we select 2-3 neighbors to receive a free quart of soup, personally delivered, along with a shoutout (if they’re comfortable) celebrating their story.

It’s our way of lifting up everyday heroes and reminding one another that we’re surrounded by good people — sometimes right across the street.

Disclaimer: The nominee must live within one of the seven-county Twin Cities metropolitan area (Anoka, Carver, Dakota, Hennepin, Ramsey, Scott, Washington).

Sota Stories

Sota Stories is our storytelling corner — a growing collection of moments, memories, and neighbor-to-neighbor connections that reflect the heart of The Gathered Table. Here, we’ll highlight community voices, share the inspiring stories from our Nominate a Neighbor program, and celebrate the people who make Minnesota feel like home. Check back often as we begin gathering and sharing the stories that bring our community to life.