FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

We use a model called Intentional Social Interaction (pronounced “IZI”) to engage warm, authentic connections and catalyze bridging social capital as we partner with communities in participatory action research.

​Marnita’s Table seeks to close gaps across difference through making Intentional Social Interaction (“IZI“) / Digital Intentional Social Interaction (“dIZI”) the new pattern for society where Indigenous; Black and brown people; the disenfranchised; the poor; the LGBTQ+; those from historically and currently pushed to the margins communities; the traditionally unheard and excluded are actively and intentionally included and valued at the policy-making and resource-sharing table. 

Attend a quarterly Tea at the Table information session or attend IZI 101 training to learn about the five foundational roots and 21 touchpoints of IZI. 

Although Marnita’s Table is a 501c3 nonprofit organization, about 15% of our funding comes from our special events, grants and private donors, while the remaining 85% comes from nonprofits, governmental, nongovernmental and community organizations that hire us to help “close the gap.” As a mission-driven organization, our projects are selected with our mission in mind – so we only work with those who have identified a clear and pressing need to bridge differences and find common ground in an effort to reduce disparities and inequities wherever they may be found.

In March 2023 we have launched Evolve! Inspiration to Institution Campaign to fully funded to expand our platform and optimize our capacity as we grow, sustain and plan for succession.

Our clients hire us to create systems change – and we take that seriously. Please go to our Funders and Sponsors page for our client list.

We go wherever there is an urgent and compelling need to bridge race, class, culture and other means of self-identity. Much of this work occurs in collaboration with governmental and non-governmental organizations, nonprofits and community entities, joint powers boards, cities, counties and school systems. In ten years, Marnita’s Table has transitioned from small home and community-based projects as we deepen our focus on creating meaningful, collaborative and lasting systems change. It is our goal to train as many people as we can in the model of Intentional Social Interaction in order to make authentic welcome and inclusion the model for society.

Marnita’s Table holds a quarterly information session called Tea at the Table where a brief explanation of the IZI model is given. For more in-depth information on IZI, we recommend the IZI for Individuals training which goes into more detail on our five foundational roots and 21 touchpoints.

The Marnita’s Table model of Intentional Social Interaction is what sets our organization apart. We create space for uninterrupted interaction between stakeholders and underserved communities. Every person in the room is given the chance to speak and let their voice be heard no matter their age, gender, color, or any other identity. There is always room at the Table.

Marnita’s Table brings the community and resources together in one room. We do not give out any person’s contact information for any reason, nor do we share our contact lists. If you have attended an event or you plan to in the future, we suggest taking down the information of those you would like to follow up with.

We do research on the community and personally contact youth organizations, schools and churches. We suggest that you do the same.

Our team undertakes extensive research to find restaurants and caterers in the area of our IZI that represent the community. We hope to build capacity for recommending some of these incredible partners and businesses to serve anyone who seeks to host an IZI feast. 

Marnita’s Table is very happy with the diverse gatherings that we work very hard to create. IZI trainings are a great opportunity to learn how we go about doing this and what it means to be culturally aware and a true community partner.

Tell us more about your panel. Please email [email protected] for speaking inquiries.

If you would like to host a table on this topic. Please come to a Tea at the Table info session or IZI training.

Please join us for an upcoming Tea at the Table to learn more about making IZI a new pattern for your own organization or community. To learn more, e-mail us at [email protected]!

Please continue check our website and follow us on Facebook. We continue to add new events every season! Only you can determine which events match your interests.

We love working with youth at the Table. It is a large focal point for our conversations. They are the future of the community and we like to support them in any way that we can. We write recommendations for youth that have directly volunteered or worked with the Table. It is important for us to know who you are and your unique strengths before writing a recommendation. If you would like to be a youth volunteer at the Table please email Lauren at [email protected].

The Mother Table has spent years perfecting Intentional Social Interaction so that anyone could take the model and duplicate it. Marnita’s Table is currently developing online trainings and materials for you to use at your own Tables! We will continue to have in person trainings for those who are interested.

This is great! Thank you for your interest in volunteering! Please contact Lauren at [email protected]. Please look at the calendar to see what Tables work with your schedule.

At Marnita’s Table we take mentoring and youth development very seriously. We believe that this is a big job and one that should not be taken lightly. Through the last year Marnita has been in the process of building her team and mentoring on an organizational level. However, if there is another member on the Marnita’s Table team that you feel connected to please do not hesitate to reach out to us.

Congratulations on furthering your education! Our Tea at the Table info session is a great opportunity to learn more about Marnita’s Table and the model of Intentional Social Interaction. It is also a great opportunity to get face to face with the Team. Please check the calendar for upcoming dates and contact Lauren at [email protected]!

We are always interested in adding new skills to our team! You may submit a cover letter and resume to us at [email protected]. In your cover letter please include what skills you currently have to contribute and what skills you may be looking to develop.