communications creating a storytelling organization stephen padre director of communications rcap...
Post on 04-Jan-2016
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CommunicationsCreating a Storytelling Organization
Stephen Padre
Director of Communications
RCAP National Office, Washington, D.C.
What this workshop will address
What are stories?
Where do we need to use stories?
Why do we need stories?
How do we get stories?
The Essence of RCAP’s Story
Exercise: Write RCAP’s story in 6 words (the 6-word memoir)
Famous example:
For sale: baby shoes, never worn
-- Ernest Hemingway
The Essence of RCAP’s Story
No clean water.
A community suffers.
Creating a Storytelling Organization
Why do we need to tell RCAP’s story?
Why do we need to tell RCAP’s story?
Raises visibilityBuilds trustImproves RCAP’s reputationShows how RCAP is making a
difference – raises viability in its sector and marketplace
Helps with funding flow
Why we need to tell RCAP’s story
Not: But:
Project cycle Funders
Communications happens here
or here
RCAP
communities
Communications happens here
Beginning End
Other stakeholders
Creating a Storytelling Organization
What are stories?
What are stories?
They should explain:Who you areWhat you doWhy people should care
What are stories?
They are:EngagingPowerfulMemorableMoving (to action)
What are stories?
They should be both:InformativePersuasive
The best stories have a face – they are personal.
What are stories?
RCAP has all the elements for great stories:Technical expertiseIdentifying problems and solutions to themLocal presence – knowledge of communitiesHistory and reputationCommunications skillsCommunications vehicles and access to audiences
Where will we tell our stories?
Our communication outlets:Rural Matters magazineeBulletinRCAP national websiteRegular reports to funders (case studies)Legislative visitsMedia (especially local)Training materials (manuals being produced)Brochures
How will we tell our stories?
You…
…and me
How will we tell our stories?
A request:Commit to writing for Rural MattersTake photosKeep your eyes open for stories to tellVisit our funders – RD offices, etc.Visit your legislators
Western RCAP
Rural Community
Assistance Corporation
(916) 447-2854
www.rcac.org
Midwest RCAP
Midwest Assistance Program
(952) 758-4334
www.map-inc.org
Southern RCAP
Community Resource Group
(479) 443-2700
www.crg.org
Northeast RCAP
RCAP Solutions
(800) 488-1969
www.rcapsolutions.org
Great Lakes RCAP
WSOS Community
Action Commission
(800) 775-9767
www.glrcap.org
Southeast RCAP
Southeast Rural Community
Assistance Project
(866) 928-3731
www.southeastrcap.org
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