A More Than A Smile Foundation Program
Engagement Nights
An evening of food, culture, and honest conversation — where Louisville's immigrant and refugee families come together and find that they belong.
About the Program
Where walls come down and community is built
Engagement Nights are one of our most beloved programs and for good reason. They are simple in concept: bring people together, share a meal, and make space for real connection. But the impact is anything but simple.
For many immigrant and refugee families, these evenings are the first time they have felt truly welcomed in Louisville. They arrive as strangers and leave as neighbors. They come looking for resources and find community. They show up quietly and leave with their voices a little louder.
Held regularly throughout the year, each Community Engagement Night is shaped by the community itself the food, the music, the conversations, and the energy are all brought by the people who attend.
What Makes It Special
Every Night Has Four Ingredients
Shared Meals
Families bring dishes from their home countries, turning every Engagement Night into a living celebration of the cultures that make Louisville extraordinary. Food is the first language of belonging.
Real Conversations
We create space for honest, open dialogue — between families, community leaders, and partners. These conversations build the trust that makes deeper collaboration possible.
Cultural Expression
Music, storytelling, and performance give community members a platform to share their heritage and be seen in their full humanity — not just as recipients of services, but as contributors of culture.
Resource Connection
Every Engagement Night includes a resource table where families can connect with local organizations, learn about upcoming programs, and get answers to questions they may not know where to ask.
Food as a Bridge
Every dish tells a story of home
Voices at the Center
Community members lead the conversation
In the Room
Moments from Past Nights
New friendships forming
Kids have their own space too
Voices heard and valued
Built by the community, for the community
I came not knowing anyone. I left with three new friends, a plate of food I had never tried before, and the feeling that I was home.
— Engagement Night Attendee
Event Details
Come as You Are
Frequency
Held regularly throughout the year — follow us on social media or sign up for our newsletter to be notified of upcoming dates
Location
Louisville, KY — specific venue shared with registered attendees
Who Is Welcome
Everyone — immigrant and refugee families, long-time Louisville residents, community partners, and anyone who wants to connect across cultures
Cost
Free and open to all — we just ask that you bring a dish to share if you are able
Attend the Next Night
Stay in the loop on upcoming Engagement Nights — dates, locations, and themes are shared through our newsletter and social channels.
Sign up for updatesVolunteer or Partner
Engagement Nights run on the energy of volunteers and community partners. Help with setup, translation, childcare, or bring your organization to the resource table.
Get involvedSponsor an Evening
Your support covers venue costs, food, childcare, and translation services making the night possible for every family who wants to attend.
Donate to supportSee You at the Next Night
Whether you are new to Louisville or have lived here your whole life, there is a seat at the table for you. Come hungry for food, for connection, and for community.