"Sharing food with another human being is an intimate act," M. F. K. Fisher opined, "that should not be indulged in lightly."  If he's right, then the intimacy quotient in downtown Olympia is about to get downright freaky.

On Saturday, Sept. 11, the Olympia Action Network and the Volunteer Center of Lewis, Thurston and Mason counties will host an epic potluck supper from 4 to 8 p.m.  The grand buffet will be served on Fifth Avenue, which will be closed from Franklin to Washington.  Last year's debut event, which was organized by einmaleins as a Food Bank fundraiser, drew more than 500 people.  This year, it could be thousands.  Table for Olympia 2010 is funded partly by donations from the Arts Alliance of Downtown Olympia, First Citizens Bank and the Olympia Downtown Association.  It's completely free to everyone, but there will be a benefit beer and wine concession in the parking lot of First Citizens Bank.

The significance of this date isn't lost on anyone.  "I hope this event reminds people of what a great community we have," mused Sara Ballard, executive director of the Volunteer Center, "and inspires them to get more involved."  The Volunteer Center was created to help train and coordinate more than 250 public and nonprofit agencies, with more than 650 volunteer programs in play.  The Olympia Action Network began as a response to President Obama's call for increased volunteerism, and previous efforts have benefited United Way, Left Foot Organics, Safeplace, GRuB and the Salvation Army's "Sock It to Hunger" event.

Mathias Eichler of einmaleins is the media sponsor for Table for Olympia, so he's been promoting it heavily on his popular website, everydayolympia.com.  I asked him whether the health department has any objections to a massive shared-food event.  "We don't sell food," he replied.  "Everything is picnic style, meaning I eat my food and you eat yours.  If I share with you, then it's your responsibility."  One can almost hear the winky emoticon.  Eichler thanks downtown Olympia for helping the event through "a few legal humps," adding, "Overall, the process wasn't too bad.  The street can only be closed for a nonprofit, so we're grateful to the organizations who do a great job sponsoring the event."

Here's how it works:  Step one, cook the dish of your choice and invite your friends to do so as well.  Step two, take that delicious dish plus a plate, utensils and serving spoon, napkins and a cup to Fifth Avenue that afternoon.  Chairs will be provided, but participants are encouraged to bring their own portable chairs.  (Pets, unfortunately, will be obliged to stay at home and eat not-quite-people food.)  Step three, chow down.  You might even see fit to share the grub you brought with others, and they with you.  Your digestion will be aided by the soothing sounds of Artesian Rumble, plus additional musicians, games and live entertainment.

My girlfriend and I have been members of an Olympia secret supper club for months now, and our group is bringing what I can promise will be extremely proficient cuisine.  Personally, I'm planning something in the way of a gratin, and yes, you're more than welcome to a serving "while supplies last."  Think of it as your chance to play food critic - but remember, it's all for a great cause, so be gentle.  I'll bring Tums for the most deeply dissatisfied.  Bon appétit, Olympia.

A Table for Olympia

4-8 p.m., Sat., Sept. 11
Fifth Avenue between Franklin and Washington, Olympia

Olympia Action Network www.olyaction
network.com, 360.280.3436

Volunteer Center of Lewis, Thurston, and Mason Counties
www.volunteer.ws
360.741.2622