The Mother Tree Effect: Sharing the Good News 2026
Join us for an evening of networking, collaborative strategy, and nourishment as we cultivate a resilient interfaith network in the Metro-East.
About the Event
Just as a forest is sustained by the "Wood Wide Web"—a hidden network that allows "Mother Trees" to share vital nutrients with the entire ecosystem—our community thrives when our faith traditions and non-profits are logistically linked.
This 2026 gathering is designed specifically for leaders and organizations committed to moving beyond simple relief toward food sustainability and self-reliance. We are moving beyond just "meeting" to building a robust system of mutual support.
What You’ll Experience:
🌿 The Digital Spotlight: See the "Good News" from across the region. A rotating slideshow will feature program highlights and success stories from participating organizations throughout the evening.
🤝 Intentional Networking: Connect with leaders from diverse faith traditions and agencies during our dedicated opening hour.
🍽️ Nourishing the Network: Enjoy a collaborative dinner while engaging in dialogue with others who are "on the ground" solving local challenges.
🎤 Insightful Presentations: Hear from gardening experts, community organizers, and regional logistics leaders from the St. Louis Area Foodbank on how we can better align our collective efforts.
How to Participate:
RSVP: Please register via our Google Form by January 20, 2026:
https://forms.gle/g4ESxqUNCEhEuqv36
Share Your "Good News": * Digital: Email 1–3 slides or graphics about your organization to
YXJiaXRlcjI4IHwgaG90bWFpbCAhIGNvbQ== by Jan 20 to be included in the event-wide slideshow and digital attendee packet.
Physical: Bring your business cards and pamphlets for our shared "Connection Table."
Schedule:
4:30 PM - 5:00 PM: Doors Open: Registration
5:00 PM – 6:00 PM: Networking: Connecting Deeply (Arrive early at 4:30!)
6:00 PM – 6:20 PM: Opening: The Roots of Local Food
6:20 PM – 7:00 PM: Dinner: Nourishing the Network
7:00 PM – 8:00 PM: Presentations & Keynote: Leveraging the Network
8:00 PM – 9:00 PM: Clean-up and Continued Dialogue
Location:
"The Station" in O'Fallon
212 E. 1st Street
O'Fallon, IL 62269
Cost: FREE Event
Co-Hosted By:
Metro-East Interfaith Partnership (MEIP)
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
- O'Fallon Illinois Stake
and
St. Clair Masjid and Education Center
Also check out other Meetups in O Fallon.
