The Power of Stories  

Stories are among the most powerful ways we connect as humans. They can heal, inspire, and move people to action. Stories shape communities, preserve history, and define cultural identities. At Orangewood Foundation, we recognize the power of storytelling—but we also understand its responsibility.  

Traditionally, nonprofit storytelling has followed a “deficit narrative,” often portraying those we serve as victims in need of rescue. While this approach may evoke sympathy, it also reduces individuals to their hardships rather than highlighting their resilience and strength.  

This realization led us to shift toward Ethical Storytelling, a model that centers dignity, empowerment, and authenticity in the way we share narratives.  

Why We Changed Our Approach 

In 2019, a conversation with a young adult who had received Orangewood services became a turning point for us. They told our Chief Development Officer, “You don’t know me. You just take the saddest parts of my story to sell it to donors.” This powerful statement made us reflect: Were we amplifying the struggles of our young people without honoring their full experiences?  

“You don’t know me. You just take the saddest parts of my story to sell it to donors.”  

We put a stake in the ground and committed to doing better. Ethical Storytelling became our guiding principle—a way to share stories while upholding the dignity of those we serve. Over the past three years, we have transformed the way we tell stories, ensuring that young adults remain the heroes of their own narratives. 

What is Ethical Storytelling? 

Ethical Storytelling is a strengths-based approach that moves beyond deficit-based narratives. It focuses on: 

• Highlighting strengths rather than struggles 
• Making the client the hero of their own story 
• Inspiring rather than exploiting 
• Ensuring deep, ongoing consent 
• Providing aftercare to storytellers 

Before sharing a story, we ask ourselves: How would this person feel reading their own story? Would they feel proud of their journey, or would they feel reduced to their trauma? 

By shifting our storytelling model, we recognize that our young people are not defined by their hardships but by their resilience and the strengths they bring to the world. 

Reframing the Narrative 

In traditional nonprofit storytelling, organizations often position themselves as the hero, solving problems for those in need. Ethical Storytelling shifts this dynamic: 

Old Approach (Deficit-Based) 

“Before coming to Orangewood, Sarah was homeless, struggling, and alone. But thanks to our support, she is now thriving.” 

New Approach (Strengths-Based) 

“Sarah faced challenges but took control of her future. With the resources from Orangewood, she worked toward her goals and built the life she envisioned for herself.” 

The difference? In the first story, the organization is the hero. In the second, Sarah is the hero of her own story, and Orangewood is simply a resource that supported her journey. 

Ethical Considerations in Storytelling 

Ethical storytelling isn’t just about using the right words—it’s about ensuring respect, agency, and care throughout the entire storytelling process. Here are the key ethical considerations: 

1. Deep, Ongoing Consent 

Consent is not just about signing a release form. We ensure that young people: 

• Fully understand how their story will be used 
• Can opt out at any time 
• Are never pressured to share 
• Have control over where and how their story appears 

2. Respecting Healing Journeys 

We work with young people who are in a place where sharing their story will not re-traumatize them. We avoid storytelling that forces individuals to relive their pain for the sake of an audience. 

3. Aftercare and Support 

Sharing personal experiences can be emotional. We provide follow-up support to storytellers, ensuring they have a safe space to process their feelings and experiences. 

Implementation: How We Made the Shift 

Our commitment to Ethical Storytelling required a complete transformation of our processes, training, and expectations. We developed: 

• Guidelines for Ethical Storytelling to ensure consistent practices 
• A Storytelling Toolkit for staff and vendors 
• Training programs for employees, volunteers, and youth ambassadors 
• Ongoing education for media and nonprofit partners 

We also focused on educating donors and stakeholders about the importance of ethical narratives and how they align with our mission. 

The Impact of Ethical Storytelling 

A major concern during this transition was whether ethical storytelling would affect donations. Traditionally, sensationalized stories drive fundraising—but we believed that well-told, strengths-based stories could be just as compelling. 

The results? A 74% increase in revenue during our Spring and Year-End campaigns. We also saw increased support from institutional funders, many of whom appreciated our shift toward ethical storytelling. Our Ambassador Celebration raised more funds than any year in the past five years. 

The results? A 74% increase in revenue during our Spring and Year-End campaigns 

Addressing Myths About Ethical Storytelling 

Myth #1: “We are intentionally telling stories unethically.” 

Most nonprofits do not mean to exploit stories. However, traditional storytelling norms often unintentionally reduce individuals to their hardships. Ethical storytelling is about making a conscious shift toward dignity-centered narratives. 

Myth #2: “Stories cannot have emotion.” 

Ethical storytelling does not mean avoiding emotion. Emotion is a key part of storytelling—but it should educate, advocate, and empower, not exploit. 

Myth #3: “We will raise less money.” 

Our experience proves otherwise. Strengths-based storytelling has resonated with donors, leading to increased revenue and deeper engagement. 

How You Can Be an Advocate for Ethical Storytelling  

Ethical storytelling is not just for nonprofits—it is a practice everyone can embrace. Here’s how you can advocate for ethical storytelling in your community:  

• Encourage nonprofits to highlight success rather than struggle  
• Give feedback when you see a deficit-based story  
• Resist media narratives that focus solely on disempowerment  
• Connect organizations with resources on ethical storytelling  
• Use strengths-based language when sharing stories  

At Orangewood Foundation, we believe in the power of stories to inspire change, build communities, and honor the incredible resilience of the young adults we serve. Ethical storytelling ensures that we tell these stories with dignity, integrity, and care.  

Are you ready to join us in shifting the narrative?