The Vision
Growing up, most of us were taught the dangers of talking to strangers. Sure, that was a great rule when we were little--but is it really necessary to carry that fear into adulthood? In a society where everyday kindness and respect in conversation seem to be fading, how can we build meaningful connections beyond our familiar circles?

Expanding our social spheres in positive ways is key to combatting loneliness, learning from different perspectives, expanding our networks, and healing the divisions in our world.

Talk to Strangers provides one very fun way to connect safely with new people and renew our hope for kindhearted human connection.

Talk to Strangers is an event centered around a very simple card game designed to get strangers talking in a way that feels safe for them.

It may take a little courage, but you also might just leave feeling seen, heard, known and connected to many people who were strangers when the evening began!

How Talk to Strangers Works

(click here for a video explanation)

When you arrive, you'll check in at a table up front. You'll be assigned a seat with 5-7 other people. If you come with friends, groups of greater than 2 people will be split up so that you can--Talk to Strangers! Groups of 2 may choose whether they stay together or split.

A host will guide the whole room throughout the evening, making sure every table has what they need. A table leader will be assigned to each table who understands the game and has received training in keeping the tone of the evening kindhearted and safe for all who are present.

The game will last about 2 hours, and you will be dismissed.

Come curious. Come ready to listen generously, express yourself freely, disagree kindly and learn from everyone!

Refreshments
Coffee and Desserts will be available for purchase from Hatfield's! 

Shared Values: 

• Automatic respect - All humans are worthy of respect. By speaking kindly and responding curiously, we validate one another in transformative ways. 
• Generous listening - Everyone wants to be known. We value the intentional choice to generously offer the gift of active listening to others.    
• Authentic Connections - We have more in common than we know. We value celebrating the things that unite us over than emphasizing what divides us. 

Who's Hosting This Event?
This event is hosted by Grace Church with the support of Hatfield's Restaurant! 

Although it is hosted by a church, Talk to Strangers is intentionally designed as a community-focused event. It will not contain any overtly religious elements throughout the evening except for a few of the conversation cards that allow the participant to share their views on spiritual matters. All viewpoints are welcome! 

Details:

Date
Jan 17, 2025

Time
6pm Doors Open (Local coffee, dessert, and thrift store open)

7-9pm Talk to Strangers Event

Address
Hatfield's
16700 Lorain Ave, Cleveland, OH 44111

Ages 16+