Collaborative Storytelling: Sharing Client Stories with Dignity | A Connext Event
Storytelling is a powerful tool – but how do we create impactful, respectful narratives that honor those whose stories we’re sharing?
Join Connext for an important discussion on ethical storytelling and the positive impact this practice can have on the nonprofit sector and broader Kansas City community. We’ll spend time diving into ethical practices and practical frameworks so you can be equipped to leave exploitative practices behind and instead tell stories with dignity, empowerment, and collaboration in mind.
In this session, you'll learn:
- How consent is obtained
- When compensation is appropriate
- How to respect storytellers’ contributions
Presenters
Tahir Atwater | Director of Development, Jackson County CASA
Tahir’s personal and professional mission statement is: To build and support Equity and Belonging in each space he enters. As the Director of Development for Jackson County CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates), Tahir’s focus is growing CASA’s volunteer and donor base, while using intentional DEIB initiatives in the agency's growth and outreach strategies. CASA’s vision is to ensure every child that's faced abuse or neglect and involved with the Jackson County Family Court will end up in a safe and permanent home.
Sarah Kolsto | Refugee Resettlement Director, Della Lamb Community Services
Sarah Kolsto currently serves as the Refugee Services Director at Della Lamb Community Services – one of two refugee resettlement agencies in Kansas City, MO. She received her Bachelor of Arts in Spanish Language and Literature from Guilford College in Greensboro, NC. Prior to her work at Della Lamb, she served in various volunteer roles as an advocate for refugees in numerous cities throughout the United States. She is also currently serving as a Commissioner on the Mayor’s Commission for New Americans. Sarah and her husband Gregory are Kansas City business owners, establishing Oddly Correct – now a Kansas City staple – in 2008.
Aaron Mefferd is the owner of Aaron Mefferd Creative, a five-time award-winning video production company based in Kansas City. Specializing in storytelling and dedicated to serving nonprofits, his company has garnered acclaim for its outstanding work, including the prestigious 2022 Nonprofit Connect Community Champion Award. With a passion for narrative and a commitment to making a difference, Aaron leads his team in crafting compelling visual experiences that resonate deeply with audiences, showcasing the impactful stories of nonprofits and championing the power of storytelling to drive positive change in the community.
Debbie Frederiksen, MS, LPC | Director of Communications, Metropolitan Organization to Counter Sexual Assault (MOCSA)
Debbie worked in corporate marketing for 18 years before pursuing a master’s degree and joining the nonprofit field in 2014. She has extensive experience in strategic communications including writing and designing marketing materials, brand management, public relations, and fundraising event promotion. At MOCSA she brings a trauma-informed approach to working with members of the Survivors Speakers Bureau and supports individuals in crafting their stories to share publicly. Debbie also helped create and oversee the StoryShare campaign which collected stories from MOCSA volunteers, clients, staff, community members, and students. This community collaboration provided opportunities for storytellers to share on various platforms including radio, online, social media, and during a live in-person event.
Program Policies
Nonprofit Connect may take photographs, screenshots, or video recordings at public and virtual events, so we ask that you read our Privacy Policy for more information. Each registration is for one individual. We kindly ask that you do not circulate your webinar link with others who have not registered.
So that we can serve you better, we want to understand who is in the room. You will be asked two demographics questions as you register for this event. We will never share your individual information, and we will only report on demographics in aggregate. Any questions or comments? Contact us at connextkc@gmail.com.
A Connext Program
Connext (formerly YNPNkc) provides learning and networking opportunities for the next generation of nonprofit leaders. We welcome people of all ages and professions, although most of our members are in their 20s and 30s and working in the nonprofit sector.
Event Sponsors
Date and Time
Tuesday Jul 23, 2024
3:30 PM - 5:00 PM CDT
3:30 - 4:30 PM | Panel Discussion
4:30 - 5:00 PM | Audience Q & A
Fees/Admission
$10.00 for members and non-members
If this fee presents a barrier to your attendance, please email connextkc@gmail.com.
Not yet a Nonprofit Connect member? Learn more.
Contact Information
Connext Board of Directors
Send Email
