New Pathway for Learning and Conversation

This spring, 135 people gathered in Penticton, Vernon, and Kelowna for introductory Table Talks sessions co-hosted by Kelly Terbasket of IndigenEYEZ / kinSHIFT and Kim English of the Community Foundation.

Designed as an entry point into deeper learning, the gatherings invited participants to explore reconciliation, relationships, and community through storytelling, reflection, dialogue, and connection-building activities.

Participants arrived with different experiences and reasons for attending, but a common theme emerged across all three communities: people wanted to continue the conversation. Many expressed a desire to keep learning alongside others and to explore how reconciliation connects to everyday concerns such as belonging, community, land, water, and caring for place.

The sessions also highlighted something deeper. In a time when many people feel isolated or disconnected, participants spoke about the importance of finding others who are willing to learn together. The desire for belonging and meaningful connection surfaced as strongly as the desire for information.

To support participants in taking a next step, the Community Foundation is now offering Table Talks micro-grants for small, relationship-based gatherings such as shared meals, learning circles, film discussions, creative reflections, and community conversations. Grant recipients will also have access to the Table Talks toolkit, a curated resource list, and practical tools to help guide thoughtful conversations in their own circles and communities.

As Kim English shares:

“What stood out most was people’s willingness to stay with the learning – to listen, reflect, and keep showing up in relationship. This isn’t about having the right answers. It’s about how we continue, together, in a good way.”

The introductory sessions may have ended, but the conversations – and the relationships growing from them – are just beginning.