The Ivy Table
Pay-it-Forward Cafe
and Event Space
10180 E Grand River Ave,
Brighton, MI, 48116
The BIG Dream
​Many years ago, God placed on our heart the vision of opening a brick and mortar space in our community, a space where people of all ages, all backgrounds, and all income levels, could gather together for great food and meaningful fellowship. That vision will soon become a reality in the former Brighton House/ Alexanders building, which has been vacant for over 7 years.
The new space will include:​
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A 1500 sf dining area that will host a pay-it-forward cafe* during weekdays AND be rented out as a small event venue on weekends where parties of up to 120 people can gather
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A large commercial kitchen that will allow us to increase our meal production for the food insecure in our area AND be rented out as a commissary kitchen to small food based businesses
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A small conference room that will provide an office space for our team AND can be rented out for corporate meetings, bible studies, support groups, etc.​​​
And best of all, 100% of the proceeds that are generated from this unique and beautiful space will be used to bless those in need both locally and abroad.
The BIG Questions
*What is a pay-it-forward cafe??? It will look like and operate like a typical restaurant with a limited menu of high quality dishes. People will come in and place their food order... BUT, they will NOT receive a bill. Guests who need a free meal can accept one with dignity. Those who would like to pay-it-forward can make a donation that covers the cost of their meal or of the meal of someone else. It will be a cafe that promotes generosity and doing good for others. It will be a place where the community unites to support one another and make a positive impact. At any time, you will not be able to tell who is there to be blessed and who is there to be a blessing.​
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Why do we need a pay-it-foward cafe in our community? In Livingston County, 1 in 13 people are now experiencing food insecurity (not having access to enough nutritious food to live a healthy lifestyle) and 50% of them do not qualify for government food assistance. Having a shame free, stigma free place where healthy and delicious food is available to everyone is essential. No one should have to go to bed hungry in any community (but especially one as affluent as ours). Increasing education about the food insecurity and providing simple and practical ways for everyone to help will have a huge impact on combating the problem.
The BIG Ask- Help us open our doors!
After replacing all of the insulation in the attic, updating the electrical, plumbing, and heating/cooling systems, and rebuilding the walk in refrigerator/freezer from the ground up, the total cost of the purchase and renovation of this building will now be around $1,300,000. Over the past 9 months we have raised over $900,000 toward the project, but we are still about $400,000 short. Plese consider giving. Any amount, large or small, makes a difference.
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As we look to open the space, we are seeking individuals and businesses who would like to help the support operating costs. 2025 Cafe Partnership levels are detailed below. ​​
2025 Cafe Pay-it-Forward Partners-
click to enlarge
This new space is being build for the community, by the community. Join the cause and partner with us today!​​​​
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In-Kind Donations- In addition to financial donors, the building has already utilized over 1000 volunteer hours to help with cleaning and demolition. We still could use people who are skilled at drywall, painting, trim work, cabinets, furniture assembly, etc​. We now need volunteers to help us start putting it all back together. Do you have a time or talent you could share? We would love to hear from you. Volunteer opportunities are always available.​​​
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The BIG Answer!
Although purchasing a building seemed like an unachievable task, God has opened door after door in order to make it possible. We still have a lot of work to do before being able to open our doors, but we know that God will provide. Keep praying!
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"To him who is able to do exceeding abundantly more than we can ask or imagine... to Him be the glory!" -Eph 3:21
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Singer, Jon Bon Jovi has a restaurant chain with a very similar mission. This 6 minute video helps explain the how and why of a nonprofit cafe.
Great Meals + Great Mission!