Sow a Seed of Support in the Village. Watch it...

GROW! Greetings!! My name is Erin Patrice- founder of The Breaking Bread Village. Someone recently told me to ask for the things I believe- so here I am. These funds I'm asking for will support the production and storytelling during and after our LIVE SHOWS! Stories that will continue to help for a long time after they're shared. It will enable us to continue to sow seeds of the local small businesses and community members- we share space with that help us along this journey. We love giving to the community and ask for a seed of support as we continue these necessary conversations.

At the height of a pandemic, while tensions were high and civility appeared to be a thing of the past, the birthing pains began, and TBBV was birthed on May 12, 2020. In those divisive moments, the absolute need for empathetic and transparent conversations and for creating safe spaces and community building- was evident.

First, let me share something with you about the why- of valuing conversation. One is because of the many times I remember as a child and young adult being told not to share, not to feel, not to speak, or speak the way I was told. I was made to feel like I was to be seen and not heard. It impacted me in such a way that I've always advocated for voices to be heard and welcomed without judgment—a place where someone feels comfortable to be and not simply tolerated.

Secondly, after working in the school system, one on one with many students, for years, as a life coach, I saw firsthand the need to advocate and encourage. The need to have healthy dialogue and spaces was palpable. I was always partnered with students who needed extra love, and I found success with them by communicating. This helped them feel seen and heard, led them to trust me, and allowed them to be vulnerable. I've seen it work and believe in this method. Secondly, differences should be welcomed, not shunned. We need to share our stories and experiences. We can celebrate what makes us different and not be afraid of it. Yes, as simple as some feel conversation is, and I value it deeply, I believe at times we've proven- in our current state- that it's not quite as simple as we'd like to think, unfortunately. With TBBV method, although the tangible benefits can be hard to see- initially- the benefits are there, and many seeds are planted.

For example, two panelists from the first show met for lunch to further the conversation and get to know each other better. These were two people with very different views, opposites actually, and at some moment during the live show, they heard something that allowed them to open their minds to continue the learning process. Another person contacted a family member- whom they hadn't spoken to for two years- after our Agree to Disagree show. I can't help but believe that it had something to do with the method and environment created for them to be vulnerable. We've gotten numerous emails, texts, and conversations - about outcomes from audience members- and panelists- that attended a LIVE SHOW.

The feedback has been mind-blowing, humbling, and beautiful. We may not see all the residual effects of our conversations at that moment, but I know an impact takes place- every time. This is based directly on the feedback from both the panelist and viewers/guests. The reviews made my heart smile. I honestly had no idea that a lasting impression would be left this way, but I am forever grateful and hopeful. I wholeheartedly believe in us- TBBV, and I'm asking you to believe in it, too.