One type of support I particularly enjoy is serving as a nonprofit organization’s storytelling partner; we work side by side to keep storytelling moving forward and strategically aligned. Recently, I updated my story writing package to reflect this partnership approach of longer-term engagements that combine advisory support and story development.

The difference a nonprofit storytelling partner can make

I’ve had the privilege of providing storytelling support to AlphaPlus, an organization that helps adult literacy professionals in Ontario to integrate digital technology, for many years. When I recently asked my client, executive director Alan Cherwinski, to share a testimonial about our work, he provided more than a testimonial; he provided a mini-case study!

Alan’s words are such a lovely encapsulation of the experience and results I aim to deliver that I asked his permission to share them here:

“One of our Board Directors first connected us with Marlene in early 2019, bringing her in to support Board development and to demonstrate the value of storytelling in our non-profit charity. We have never looked back.

Marlene has provided us with ongoing story guidance and writing ever since. We have a regular story generation arrangement, and her brief process has become well engrained in our organization — our internal team has consistently found the experience straightforward and engaging. 

The stories she writes do something rare; they recognize the impact of our services while also elevating and celebrating what our clients and their organizations are capable of achieving. In our world, where client success stories are so often overlooked or undervalued, that distinction matters deeply.

Much like adult literacy work is fundamentally about helping people see that they are capable of learning, Marlene’s stories have helped shine a light on the hard work and dedication of the teachers and programs we support. Her ongoing guidance, advice, and professionalism have made a real difference, and I very much appreciate the consistency and care she brings to her work.”

This is precisely the type of result I aim to deliver for all my clients, and I thank Alan for his kind words.

Would your organization benefit from working with a nonprofit storytelling partner?

Would you like my help planning and capturing your nonprofit’s stories so they’re available to support your communications when you need them? Please see my story writing service for nonprofit organizations and contact me if you’re interested in working with me as your storytelling partner.

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