The Corner Table Releases Strategic Plan Guided by Community Feedback

The Corner Table, a nonprofit ministry serving neighbors facing food insecurity in Catawba County, is proud to announce the adoption of a new Strategic Plan that will guide its work through 2029. This plan introduces a refreshed mission, a bold vision, and a set of actionable goals designed to expand the organization’s reach and deepen its impact in the community.

More than 200 community members participated in the planning process by responding to surveys and one-on-one interviews. Through this intentional listening phase, The Corner Table board became aware of some misconceptions about who the ministry serves and their future plans. “To clarify two misconceptions revealed in the listening phase,” said Summer Jenkins, Executive Director, “the vast majority of guests served by The Corner Table have a job and a place to live. While the board was only testing the idea of a temporary shelter through the listening process, we have removed that as an option from our current Strategic Plans. We also affirmed that the community trust of this ministry is high, and those who support the ministry are faithful and dedicated. We are incredibly grateful to everyone who took the time to share their thoughts. This plan is a reflection of your voices and the needs we see growing in our community. It shows us where we’ve been and where we need to go.”

A volunteer Strategic Planning Team, made up of community members, board representatives, and local leaders, met for several months to review community input, analyze opportunities, and chart a path forward. Their work ensured that the plan is not only aspirational but also practical and responsive to real needs. The Corner Table sincerely thanks this dedicated team for their time, insight, and commitment to the mission.

Updated Organizational Identity

Mission:
The Corner Table provides meals—and so much more.

Vision:
A community where everyone thrives.

Core Values – “Our Recipe”:
At The Corner Table, we value dignity, compassion, responsiveness, stewardship, and community. These values guide every decision we make and every meal we serve.

New Core Ministry Goals

Goal 1: Unite All Programs Under One Roof by July 2028
The Corner Table will consolidate operations and our current programs into a single, efficient location to better serve guests, expand capacity, and streamline food storage and distribution. This includes launching a capital campaign beginning July 2025, with plans to break ground in 2027.

Goal 2: Launch Job Training in Culinary and Warehouse Skills by January 2029
A new workforce development program will equip individuals with valuable life and employment skills, preparing graduates for jobs in food service and logistics through hands-on training and partnerships with local employers and colleges.

Goal 3: Increase Awareness of Mission and Impact by July 2026
The organization will implement a brand awareness campaign using storytelling, regular public updates, and educational events to ensure the community understands who The Corner Table serves, the programs it offers, and how to support the ministry.

Goal 4: Grow and Diversify Fundraising by July 2026
Efforts will expand to include annual giving, planned gifts, and capital campaign support. Strategies will also include consistent donor outreach, board engagement, and a gratitude plan to sustain long-term relationships. The Corner Table has a strong financial position. This goal will diversify revenue to allow for continued growth and responsiveness.

“This plan gives us clarity, focus, and momentum,” Jenkins added. “We believe in a stronger, healthier community—and this plan helps us build it, one meal at a time.”