In 1998 Chef Tom created the Bountiful Table

The Bountiful Table followed through on a commitment to bring people together at one table to explore emerging critical issues and social dynamics of our time.  Through community celebration and feasting, people experienced the power of positive action born out of authentic relationship.

The project focus was to create a forum for communities to engage in dialogue about hunger, education, and environment; to explore innovative solutions for complex community issues and develop an action strategy for community projects that deliver results. In October 2000 the first Bountiful Table Day of Abundance took place after a full year of planning and promoting. Over 27 US communities, 7 International communities and hundreds of individuals and families registered their participation.

In 2001 just days from the tragic events of 9/11 Chef Tom created Stand Up and Take a Seat and invited all communities to come together at the table in an invitation to engage in a rich public and civic conversation about the human condition and how we as individuals, families and communities can impact positive change by working together. It was in his words “an opportunity to demonstrate the human spirit of innovation, resilience and generosity. By connecting individuals, families and communities at the common table, we empower the vision of a better world.”