In an era with such divided opinions, whether in politics, business, AI, or healthcare, everything is a controversial subject. As such, there are many topics we don’t feel comfortable talking about; suddenly, giving our opinions has become the equivalent of testing out a grenade. Will it explode, or won’t it? One nonprofit is working to change that.
| Email: village@tbbv.org |
| Website: https://tbbv.org/ |
Breaking Bread USA creates safe spaces for these conversations to occur. Created by Mrs. Erin Patrice–a storyteller, life coach, conversationalist, and leader–to allow people from different backgrounds, cultures, and histories to gather in one area and discuss their beliefs, Breaking Bread advocates to see beyond an opinion into the reasons why someone believes that way. During our interview, she described how the program went beyond the literal meaning of bringing people together; rather, it managed to form connections, build bonds, and, as Mrs. Patrice likes to say, “sow a seed.”
Beyond facilitating spaces for conversation, Breaking Bread also brings together “people from a background of vulnerability and abuse”, provides support for “girls ages 9–12 who have begun their menstrual cycle”, and draws attention to the little moments, such as eating together and reflection. Started in May of 2020, the organization has come a long way; they have launched youth summits, creating conversations among teenagers and fostering connections, they have done workshops, building empathy and leadership skills, and they keep doing more, touching hearts and sowing seeds at every level.
With a goal to raise $60,000 in 2026, Breaking Bread continues growing and spreading; the root idea, though, remains the same. The significance of sharing a meal is something common to most cultures around the world, symbolizing peace, acceptance, and a lack of judgment. With this underlying theme prevalent through all of Breaking Bread’s programs, each event has a “foundation for respectful, active listening”. Due to the sensitivity of topics and the personal ties that are so central to the conversation, this can easily be destroyed; however, Mrs. Walker develops an environment where respect is a given.
For difficult conversations, Breaking Bread makes it as easy and as natural as human connection should be. Mrs. Erin Walker is the heart behind Breaking Bread, but with every new person who is introduced to the program, they share in the purpose and warmth that Breaking Bread gives.