Healthy Community Initiative

Before the Event

Tips for Inviting Guests

• Practice – Spend a couple minutes reviewing HCI’s website – including the vision/mission and HCI’s supported programs – before sending invitations to your prospective guests. Personalize your message to invitees to include a note about why you’re excited to support HCI. Consider what could be accomplished with more community support.
• Make Connections – Connect your prospective guests’ interests with HCI’s mission. Highlight HCI’s programs and priorities you feel will best resonate with your guests. 
• Be Clear – Let your guests know what to expect. This is a one hour event serving free breakfast where guests will be asked to consider giving a gift to HCI. 
• Have a Backup Plan – What if your prospective guest says they cannot attend your event? It doesn’t have to be a complete loss. Be ready to offer alternative ideas such as, “Do you know anyone who would appreciate an invitation?” or “Can I send you some materials to look over when it is convenient for you?”
• Thank them! No matter their RSVP, the opportunity to talk with community members about HCI raises awareness in the community.

Making the Most of Hosting a Table

• Be prepared to share your reasons for supporting HCI – Share your insight, experience, and stories that connect you to HCI’s mission. If they motivated you to donate, they may inspire others, too.
• Encourage donations – Let guests know that donations can also be made online or by mail after the event. 

Digital Resources

Inviting Guests to Your Table

• Digital Invitation to email to guests (or, download text for copy/paste)
• Donation Webpage

Recruiting Table Captains

• 2026 HCI Community Breakfast Table Captains Expectations

Learn more about HCI

• HCI Annual Community Reports
• HCI-Supported Programs