Embracing the storytelling process to drive change, one step at a time.

SHOW NOTES:
November 21, 2024 – Episode # 165
Purposeful Storytelling: Empowering Community Impact with Dignity and Ethics  

Storytelling is the heartbeat of every nonprofit, yet many face the challenge of sharing their mission and impact in ways that are both compelling and respectful of the communities they serve. How can organizations craft powerful narratives that inspire donors, while also honoring the dignity and voices of those they seek to help? This delicate balance is crucial for building trust, fostering genuine connections, and driving lasting change.

In this inspiring episode of Raise Nation Radio, we sit down with Derria Ford, an advocate for ethical storytelling and servant leadership in the nonprofit sector. Derria shares her unique perspective on how nonprofits can tell impactful, respectful stories that empower the communities they serve. She discusses the importance of consent, community representation, and the ongoing process of ethical storytelling.

Derria also reflects on her work with the Martha O’Brien Center in Nashville, which is dedicated to eradicating poverty through education, employment, and family support services. Her dedication to creating stories that honor dignity and agency is contagious, and she offers valuable advice for nonprofits striving to connect with donors while maintaining the integrity of their mission.

Ethical storytelling means telling the story with the client, not just about the client.

Highlights of this Episode: 

  • The core principles of ethical storytelling: consent, framing, and community representation.
  • How to position clients as the heroes in their stories to build trust and empowerment.
  • Why consent is an ongoing, collaborative process, not a one-time form.
  • The dangers of perpetuating stereotypes and how to shift the narrative.
  • Tips for engaging donors with stories that are authentic, concise, and impactful.

Connect with our guest on LinkedIn:
Derria Ford