Update on DIG’s Supper Social Club
By: Deborah Dietz
DIG envisioned the Supper Social Club in the summer of 2017 to bring people in the disability community together. Our goal was simple but powerful: to create a welcoming space where people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and autism could go out to dinner, socialize, and enjoy being part of a community without feeling judged.
I worked with our summer interns to design the project from the ground up. Together, we created a logo, discussed which restaurant concept would work best, and ultimately selected California Pizza Kitchen. Matt and I visited the restaurant in advance, met with the manager, and shared our vision. The excitement and support we received made it clear we were onto something special.
Our first Supper Social Club event took place in February 2018. We were a small but mighty group, gathered around a few tables in the back of the restaurant. Many of the young adults who attended were shy and unsure at first; some barely spoke, some kept to themselves, and some needed encouragement just to walk through the door.
What happened over time was truly incredible.
As we continued to meet, we watched people come out of their shells. Those same young adults who were once quiet began starting conversations, forming friendships, and looking forward to each event. Confidence grew. Laughter came easier. The Supper Social Club became more than dinner; it became a place of belonging.
We met regularly through July 2025, and the group grew to more than 50 people. Not even COVID-19 stopped us; we adapted and continued to meet virtually, because connection mattered too much to lose. Along the way, we changed restaurant locations and expanded the experience by adding a Karaoke Holiday Party and a Summer Bowling Event, creating even more opportunities for social engagement and fun.
The impact of the Supper Social Club was recognized when the City of Coral Gables honored California Pizza Kitchen with its first City For All Award. You can watch the video about that award and our project.
These events have been incredibly special to me. I have loved every gathering and deeply valued the chance to get to know each person who joined us. Watching friendships form and confidence grow has been one of the most meaningful parts of my work.
DIG will be pausing the Supper Social Club for the next few months. As we take this break, I want to sincerely thank every individual, family member, organization, and partner who helped make these events possible over the years.
You can find more photos and videos from the Supper Social Club on our website, and I hope they remind you of how powerful community can be when people are given the space to belong.
