Stories at the Center
Connecting Through Shared Experiences
Join Us for Shared Stories and Connection
Gather with us from 12:00 – 1:00 PM for Stories at the Center. These monthly gatherings bring community members together to share personal stories and engage in meaningful conversations. By listening to one another, we can imagine ways to build inclusive, equitable communities where all people belong and thrive.
Why Join?
Stories have the power to connect us, challenge assumptions, and inspire change. Whether you come to listen, to share, or simply to connect with others, your voice and presence are valued.
We hope you’ll join us for this enriching experience of storytelling, empathy, and community building.
Please note we will not hold a story exchange in June.
July 7 Prompt
Aligning Actions With Values is one of our Wassmuth Powerful Practices. It means considering what we value about human rights and the dignity of others before we act, ensuring that action is in alignment with our values.
Share a story about a time when you had the choice to quickly react on impulse or pause to consider a response aligned with your values. What did you choose? What was the impact? Would you make the same choice next time?
Each story we share helps bridge differences and reminds us of our shared humanity. Join us and add your voice and perspective.
A Story Exchange
Stories at the Center follows Narrative 4’s Story Exchange format, designed to foster empathy and understanding. Here’s how it works:
Come with a Story in Mind
Prior to the evening, participants receive prompts to help them prepare a personal story to share.Partner Story Sharing
During the event, participants pair up to share their stories. Each person listens closely as their partner tells their story.Retelling in the First Person
The group gathers back together, and each participant retells their partner’s story as if it were their own, using “I” statements to deepen understanding and connection.Reflect and Discuss
After sharing, participants reflect on what they felt and learned through the exchange.
Share this program
“We are all storytellers. We all live in a network of stories. There isn't a stronger connection between people than storytelling.”
-JIMMY NEIL SMITH, DIRECTOR OF THE INTERNATIONAL STORYTELLING CENTER