The power that storytelling has - with its ability to convey morals and give people a sense of connection to their space, place, and identity - is both well known and well-documented. Long before the internet, movies, television, novels, or even recorded history, people looked to the spoken word and the particular narratives of their culture to learn what they needed and help them find their way in the world.
And while the details certainly do vary through space and time, the underlying value they have remain the same. Stories deal with the timelessness of human nature, pose existential questions, help us to learn about our past, and understand where we are going. Be it in literary form, narrative form, or just plain-spoken tales, stories told (and told well) have had the power to shape minds and even alter the course of history.
Hence why the Rockefeller Foundation, the New York-based philanthropic organization and private foundation created by the Rockefeller family, created the Rockefeller Foundation Storytelling Challenge. Basically, the Challenge invites current and former grantee organizations with a history of social work to share their best stories using whatever means or media they choose.
The power of storytelling has been well-documented, despite changes in delivery and available media. Credit: hatchforgood.org
These can take the form of a song, a written account, an audio/visual presentations, or even a dramatic reenactment, so long as they convey an inspiring, interesting or instructional story that could make a difference in the lives of others. Much like the long history of storytelling itself, the focus is not on the medium, but on the value it had in helping to advance the work of those involved in social change.
Those seeking to become involved in the competition are also encouraged to check out Hatch, the Rockefeller Foundation's suite for storytelling resources. Developed for storytelling in the digital age, the purpose of Hatch is to ensure that people and organizations that have stories that could make an difference in the lives of others can connect to the tools and strategies they need to bring those stories to an audience.
Thus arises another aspect of the RFSC, which is how storytelling has changed with the advent of the internet and new media. With the slow death of long-narratives and print. and the rise of online media, smart devices, and other digital resources, a paradox of accessibility has been created. While it is has never been easier to reach audiences, the comparative impact that information can have in such a fast-paced, temporary medium has made reaching them (in the deeper sense of the word) that much more difficult.
The Hatch Project is dedicated to effecting social change through storytelling. Credit: hatchforgood.org
Hence why the RFCS is looking for stories that can effect social change and make a difference in people's lives, and why it is providing the resources and tools necessary to help organizations develop the necessary strategies to do so in the modern age. Those grantees that can show how a difference was made, or will be made in the future, using this timeless art will be eligible for cash incentives totalling $100,000 USD.
The first Grant of $50,000 USD will be awarded to the organization that can provide a story of their work, and demonstrate how that story made an impact. The second Grant will be awarded to those that can provide a story and explain how and where it will have an impact someday. The challenge officially kicked off on February 17th, 2015 and will run until May 19th, 2015. The two Grants will be awarded on June 23rd, 2015.
People interested in how storytelling can make a difference in the lives of many should stay tuned to the Challenge for further updates, which will be posted online at herox.com/RFSC. And for more information on the Rockefeller Foundation and details about what activities it currently supports, check out their homepage.
In the meantime, be sure to check out this promotional video of the RFSC:
Top image: comnetwork.org
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