Could a 30-minute conversation shift your preconceptions?
What is an Our Stories Connect Event?
Join us for our first annual community dialogue event as we bring together Delaware County neighbors who courageously share their unique lived experiences related to a specific aspect of their identity through one-on-one conversations with attendees.
Our event is designed to foster open and honest dialogue, creating a space where difficult questions are welcomed, and meaningful connections are forged. It’s a platform where stories intertwine, perspectives converge, and understanding deepens.
Come be a part of this enriching experience as we celebrate the richness of our community’s narratives and embrace the power of authentic human connection.
April 20, 2024
A meaningful afternoon of human connection
On April 20th, Media Fellowship House hosted our first “Our Stories Connect” event at the Media Borough Parlor Room. We extend our gratitude to the nine individuals who courageously shared their stories, fostering deep connections with fellow community members through meaningful, 30-minute conversations.
Stories shared included:
- “All the Little Things: Story of a Phoenix”
- “Fighting Your Lion: My Battle with Cerebral Palsy”
- “Guided by Heart: Thriving After Losing Vision”
- “Turning Vision to Reality: The Story of a Community Activist”
- “From Boy to Man: The Road Less Traveled”
- “My Heritage and Housing”
- “Finding My Place: A Journey of Adoption and Belonging”
- “From Partner to Caregiver”
- “You’re Never Too Young: A Young Mind’s Journey into a Fulfilling Career”
How does it work?
At our event, guests engage in one-on-one conversations with a community member, exploring topics and experiences that matter to them. This isn’t your typical storytelling session—it’s a dynamic exchange that unfolds organically. Participants are encouraged to ask questions, share insights, and listen attentively. All questions are welcome, and we respect each individual’s privacy. If there are topics one prefers not to discuss, that’s perfectly okay. Conversations typically last around thirty minutes but can be extended or concluded based on mutual agreement.
What to Expect.
When attending an Our Stories Connect event as our guest, here’s what you can anticipate: Upon arrival, guests will approach a Media Fellowship House volunteer to request a conversation with a specific community member “storyteller”. These community members are chosen based on the titles they provide, reflecting their lived experiences, biases, stereotypes, or stigmas they’ve encountered. Volunteers facilitate introductions between the storytellers and community guests in the welcome area, after which they find a space within the facility to engage in authentic conversations. Once the conversation concludes, guests return to the waiting area and are encouraged to connect with other community members willing to share their stories. Throughout the three-hour event, guests can expect to engage in four or five 30-minute conversations, although they’re welcome to depart at any point.
Who can attend?
As discussions may touch upon sensitive topics, Our Stories Connect events are open to adults aged 18 and older. We invite participants to engage in meaningful conversations and explore diverse perspectives within our community. Our primary aim is to cultivate a safe and respectful environment for all attendees.
Statement of Values and Disclaimer
At Our Stories Connect, we believe in the power of open and honest conversations to cultivate understanding, empathy, and compassion within our community. Each neighbor’s perspective is valued and respected, reflecting their individual experiences and insights. It’s important to note that the opinions expressed by participants are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views or endorsement of Media Fellowship House. We welcome diverse voices and perspectives as we strive to create a space of inclusivity and mutual respect.
Attend our Next Event
Everyone has a story to share. It’s when we take the opportunity to listen that we can be transformed by what we hear and learn. Join us for our first annual dialogue event.
- Saturday, November 9, 1-4pm
- Media Borough Parlor Room, 301 N. Jackson St, Media, PA 19063
- Space is Limited to 30 guests
Registration will open in Fall 2024
Everyone has a story to tell. Can we help you tell yours?
We’re seeking participants willing to share their stories at upcoming Our Stories Connect events. Those selected will be invited to attend optional preparatory workshops to inspire and empower attendees to harness the power of storytelling in their own lives. Upcoming events are scheduled for April 2024 and November 2024.
Paul Patchel Conversation Series
Struggling in conversations or relationships with others of differing viewpoints? For those interested in attending our upcoming Our Stories Connect community dialogue event, we encourage you to join any or all of our three workshops designed to help you engage in constructive dialogues with individuals of diverse backgrounds and viewpoints. The 2024 Paul Patchel Conversation Series will focus on exploring conscious and unconscious biases and approaching uncomfortable topics to grow deeper in our relationships.
Participant Experiences
“This day made me feel connected to the people, the stories, the life lived. Thank you.”
“Thank you for a beautiful afternoon of community that broadened our neighborhoods in a comfort of care”
“This was a great day of sharing stories. Everyone has a story! They are all unique and very interesting and we can almost always find common ground.”