Here are some specific things that Suncoast Storytellers, guided by our mission statement, could do to achieve the end result of strengthened community bonds through shared narratives:

Programs and Events:

• Story Swaps: Organize themed story swaps where people from different backgrounds share personal stories on a specific topic. This could be anything from childhood experiences to cultural traditions.
• Intergenerational Storytelling: Create programs where elders mentor younger generations in the art of storytelling. This fosters a connection between age groups and allows traditions to be passed down.
• Public Storytelling Performances: Host regular storytelling nights at libraries, parks, or community centers. Feature storytellers from diverse backgrounds, showcasing a variety of stories and perspectives.
• Storytelling Workshops: Offer workshops on the art of storytelling, open to both aspiring and experienced storytellers. This equips community members with the skills to share their own stories effectively.
• Community Collaborations: Partner with local schools, museums, or historical societies to create storytelling programs that explore the community’s unique history and culture.

Initiatives:

• Storytelling Bench Project: Install “storytelling benches” in public places, encouraging people to sit and share stories with each other.
• “Humans of the Florida Suncoast” Project: Create a community storytelling project modeled after “Humans of New York”, where local people share short stories and photos that capture the essence of the community.
• Community Story Archive: Develop an archive of local stories, preserving the community’s history and traditions for future generations.

Overall Approach:

• Focus on Diversity: Actively seek out and showcase stories from a wide range of backgrounds, ethnicities, and age groups.
• Create a Welcoming Environment: Ensure that storytelling events are open and inclusive, where everyone feels comfortable sharing their stories.
• Promote Empathy and Understanding: Use storytelling as a tool to bridge divides and promote understanding between different groups in the community.

By implementing these strategies, Suncoast Storytellers can create a platform for shared narratives that fosters a sense of belonging and strengthens relationships within the community.