The Stories Project Play to Your Strengths
share your story and help a young leader
The stories project connects generations. Youth develop leadership skills as they interview and listen to the stories of people 50 and older. Adults have the opportunity to articulate their stories and reflect on their values and significant life moments.
if you would like To be interviewed:
Contact us here or call us at 612-888-7095.
We will call you to schedule an interview.
A young leader will conduct a 30-45 minute interview.
Following the interview, you will receive a summary of your story.
Note: Due to COVID-19 social distancing guidelines, all interviews are being conducted over the phone.
Testimonials
“Being interviewed for The Stories Project was a great experience. The interview helped me think through many aspects of my life and allowed me to focus on what has been, and continues to be, important in my life’s journey. The process pushed me to think about how I want to continue contributing to my world, as my day-to-day role changes. It was also a wonderful opportunity for conversation with my young interviewer. I feel I was able to share some insights with her, while enjoying a good discussion.”
“I had a fantastic interview from a young person. I could not believe the magnitude of the questions. I was impressed at the level of intelligence and compassion this individual had. Towards the end, he indicated that he was a freshman in high school, which caught me off guard. The entire time I thought he was a senior getting ready for college. This was based on the level of conversation we had. I enjoyed this exciting opportunity. It made me think and organize my thoughts. Thank you!”
story excerpts
Kathy
Advice Kathy would like to give young people about being successful would be to define success as something other than money, marriage or a career. Instead she encourages them to find something they are passionate about.
Ron
One of Ron's fondest memories is the summer he spent helping his friend, Dean, plant and maintain a farm. It was one of the strangest years of Ron’s life as they lived in a trailer home on the property because the old farmer had not yet moved out. Ron had enough of this crazy adventure when the entire farm flooded and the mosquitoes started taking over. That was the only year the farm ever flooded, oddly enough, but Ron didn’t stick around long enough to find out. So many laughs from that unique year in Washington.
Laurie
Laurie has a great respect for education and learning. She has been very inspired by teachers over the years. She remembers an 8th-grade teacher who was patient with her different way of learning. She also had a high school journalism teacher who helped her. While raising her family, she went to college for church work and liberal arts, graduating at 37. She worked as an educator, and learned that she loves sharing knowledge with others.
Roy
When living in California, Roy developed an early love of sports, especially baseball. One of his favorite childhood memories was attending Oakland A’s games (He’s such a fan, he even has an Oakland A’s tattoo!). His familiy would sit in the cheap seats, eating the tuna sandwiches his mom froze to bring into the game. His enjoyment of the game sparked his own interest in playing sports.
Marie
She has traveled to all seven continents, and remembers in particular the natural beauty God has shown in the Antarctic (and the penguins!) and an incredible South African safari with her family. She bowls regularly with one of her daughters and loves having fun with family, especially now as a grandmother.
Dave
Other defining moments in Dave’s life were the projects he took on when he was a student, like building a radio with a teacher and being involved in student council. He also will always fondly remember his wedding day when he and his wife eloped. From these experiences, he further developed his strengths of public speaking, writing, and using every opportunity to learn something new.
Frequently asked questions
What is the purpose of The Stories Project?
The Stories Project connects generations as young leaders develop professional skills by interviewing people 50 and over. Through a series of questions, adults have the opportunity to reflect on the values and significant moments of their lives, articulating their stories. Young people have the opportunity to be inspired and develop their own leadership abilities through listening.
Who can be interviewed for The Stories Project?
There is no age limit for The Stories Project. However, the more years of life experience to share the better! Generally interviewees are 50 years and over.
Who does the interviewing for The Stories Project?
Students from various Play to Your Strengths programs receive coaching to become interviewers in The Stories Project. These students range from middle school through college and have varying degrees of experience in interviewing adults. They are all working to develop their leadership and professional skills and they appreciate the opportunity to learn from the stories of a different generation.
What types of questions will I be asked?
Interviews are meant to be fun and are focused on positive things. There are no "right" answers. We intentionally do not provide questions in advance because the most authentic responses happen in the moment. Questions range from personal interests and significant people to important values and memorable occasions. You may always skip a question if you would prefer not to share.
How long does an interview take?
Generally, the Stories Project interview takes 30-45 minutes. Students take notes during the interview and practice active listening.
What happens to the content of the interview once it is complete?
Responses to The Stories Project can feel very personal, and for this reason, they are not shared publicly outside of our organization without your permission. Students with more experience and those who are strong writers will write up a story to summarize the experience. This story will be returned to you in appreciation of the time you have shared.
