In recent weeks, concerns have been mounting over the Trump administration’s apparent efforts to silence American voices, particularly when it comes to policies and programs that directly affect the lives of everyday citizens. From limiting public comments on proposed regulations to restricting access to public forums, these actions seem designed to block public input and stifle the democratic process. As more people are being shut out of the conversation, the question arises: what can we do about this to ensure the voices of those directly impacted are heard?
Last month, we explored the power of a human face in shaping public relations and the critical role personal stories play in driving meaningful changes in legislation. Now, let’s take that insight further by examining how nonprofits can take proactive steps to amplify the voices of those they serve. In addition to simply telling stories on behalf of individuals and families, nonprofits can empower those directly impacted to share their own narratives – through speaking, writing and onsite opportunities – ensuring they are not only heard but are actively influencing the decisions that affect their lives.
Inviting Media into a Grandmother’s Home Inspired Program Participation and Donations
During Big Brothers Big Sisters of Eastern Massachusetts’ 25th annual Big Night celebration in 2024, Sheila White, a guardian of youth in the nonprofit’s one-to-one mentoring programs, was honored with the James J. Pallotta Award, an award that represents leadership, partnership, and an unwavering passion to help young people achieve their fullest potential. She expressed gratitude for the nonprofit as she shared more on her experience as a grandmother raising her six grandchildren with help from volunteer adult mentors in the organization’s signature community-based program.
Before the event, Sheila welcomed The Patriot Ledger into her home to hear more about her experience as a guardian in the program and meet some of her grandchildren who consider their mentors, referred to as Bigs, like family. Having had her own mentor as a child, Sheila knew firsthand the positive impact that having a caring adult in your corner other than family can have on a young person’s life. The profile on her family showcased the different ways in which her children’s mentors have impacted their individual lives as well as the family unit at large. Conducting the interview in Sheila’s home allowed the reporter to see and feel the warmth and connection within the family, bringing an authenticity to the story that would have been harder to capture in an office setting. As a result, Sheila was contacted by area residents wanting to contribute to the nonprofit and her family.
A Student and Mother Helped Make Free School Meals Permanent through Op-Eds
When emergency waivers during the pandemic allowed thousands of Massachusetts children to access free meals, the expiration of those waivers threatened to undo this vital support. That’s when Project Bread and its Feed Kids Coalition launched a three-year campaign to make free school meals permanent in Massachusetts.
Through media outreach, the nonprofit highlighted the voices of those directly benefiting from the program, like Adarrio Miranda, a high school student whose access to free meals transformed his academic performance and outlook on life. In 2023, Adarrio shared his experience in a WBUR op-ed titled, “It’s hard to learn when you’re hungry. ‘I’m living proof.” That same year, a mother, Musu-kulla Massaquoi, shared her experience with childhood food insecurity and how free school meals gave her child a better future in a Bay State Banner opinion piece called “Thankful my child won’t go hungry at school.” These personal stories, told in the first person, allowed the subjects to shape their own narrative, making the stories even more impactful and authentic. By speaking directly to their experiences, they were able to connect with readers on a deeper level, ensuring their voices were heard without the filter of a reporter’s interpretation. This direct approach helped build a powerful case for permanent free school meals, culminating in the successful passage of the bill that became law in August 2023.
In a time when everyday voices are increasingly silenced, nonprofits have a unique opportunity to amplify those most affected by policy decisions. By empowering the individuals they serve to share their stories themselves, nonprofits put a human face to pressing issues and drive real change. As seen with Sheila White and Adarrio Miranda, when people are given a platform, they become powerful advocates, influencing public opinion and shaping policies that reflect community needs. By continuing to elevate these voices, nonprofits ensure those most impacted are heard and lead the way to solutions.
Teak Media has a wealth of experience helping individuals and families from all different backgrounds share their stories in a way that is both comfortable and meaningful to them while representative of the nonprofits that serve them. Click here to learn more about Teak Media’s services.
Cover photo courtesy of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Eastern Massachusetts.
