Preparing to host a Family Dinner is a lot of work, especially in the final days leading up to the Dinner. Despite his hectic schedule, last week Our Brother Alexander Pullen found some time to chat with one of our Digital Reach Hosts about his experiences serving as a Washington D.C. host. Throughout the conversation, the thing that stood out the most is how much Alexander truly enjoys his responsibility as a volunteer host, doing his best to make sure that everyone feels welcome at Our Family Dinner gatherings in D.C.

Words by Our Sister Chauncey Cox
Photos Courtesy of Our Brother Robert Kingwood

“D.C. is full of young professionals that are movers and shakers in their fields, so it’s important to me to help create an environment where people feel unconditional love. We’re looking to create something that’s more receptive than competitive in spirit.”

The combination of a welcoming and receptive environment is ultimately what Alexander feels helps to distinguish Our Family Dinner from other gatherings.

“You are free to just be you at Our Family Dinner. It’s a time to share, experience unconditional love, and know that you are apart of the overall family.”

You are free to just be you at Our Family Dinner

Although Alexander works hard alongside other Our Family Dinner leaders and hosts to create a special environment for other family members, even he admits he was a bit nervous to attend his first dinner. However, he found that by serving as a host, it helped him open up more.

“My fraternity brothers in Baltimore first told me about Our Family Dinner. They encouraged me to attend, but I felt like by being a host I could be more a little more productive. As a host, I could help demonstrate to people that the more you take ownership in the experience, the more you will enjoy it.”

Alexander is also excited about the special bond he was able to create with the other Our Family Dinner D.C. citywide hosts and family members.

“I really enjoy being able to connect with people that are driven to make a different kind of impact in their city. You can learn so much from being around individuals that have a heart to serve,” he said.

Alexander is in the midst of his first year as a citywide host and has already set goals for his next year serving.

“In 2016 I would like to see more of our brothers get involved and stay connected. I think it’s important for men to feel comfortable in unique environments like those created at Our Family Dinner”.

We are so grateful for Our Brother Alexander’s time and commitment as a host. Citywide hosts help make a lasting impression as they serve and engage to make sure that everyone feels like family. The warmth in the room at the DC Dinner last weekend is a testament to the hard work put in by Alexander and all of our other hosts. As our Family continues to grow, it is the dedication and compassion of hosts like Alexander that ensures that we can continue to create a warm and loving environment everywhere we are.