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We received the National Storytelling Network Brimstone Prize for applied storytelling to promote change in individuals and communities. This is wonderful recognition for our 2011-2012 year-long series, Intergenerational Interactive Storytelling for Seniors and Ex-offenders

The project creates a model for intergenerational interactive storytelling for seniors and ex-offenders. Our objectives are:

• to improve empowerment and self-esteem among ex-offenders
• to expand seniors' knowledge and concern for ex-offenders
• prepare a manual of instructions for other agencies and organizations to replicate this model intergenerational storytelling program 

We are working with four intergenerational groups, each meeting twice a month for three months.  At each meeting, two trained StoriesWork storytellers tell relevant folk stories followed by a question and answer period probing the challenges facing the characters in the story.  We create a safe, non-threatening, non-judgmental atmosphere in which all comments are respected and acceptable. The discussion centers only on the story and not on anyone’s personal life.  There are no right or wrong answers, only differences of opinion.  The audience is free to think for themselves and to share their thoughts with others. . Our expected outcomes include heightened empowerment and self-esteem among ex-offenders and increased knowledge and concern for ex-offenders among the seniors.

We are preparing a manual to explain and publicize this model, and encourage its replication by other agencies and organizations throughout the country.

Our program partners are the Durham Criminal Justice Resource Center and the Durham Center for Senior Life. We are grateful to The Mary Duke Biddle Foundation for supporting our pilot programs in the past and continuing their support of the current program.