#USA #Los Angeles #Unlikely Collaborators #Michael's Daughter Foundation #Our Stories

Empowering Youth Through Storytelling: A Grant for Change

Unlikely Collaborators, a non-profit organization committed to transformative storytelling, has recently awarded a significant grant to The Michael’s Daughter Foundation. This funding is aimed at bolstering their innovative program, Our Stories: Break the Cycle, which seeks to empower youth affected by parental incarceration and the justice system.

At the heart of this initiative is an engaging filmmaking workshop designed to provide a creative outlet for young individuals who often find themselves voiceless in the narratives surrounding their lives. The program encourages participants to explore and articulate their unique experiences, allowing them to reshape their personal stories into compelling narratives through the art of storytelling.

A Platform for Voices
Led by a dedicated team of professional teaching artists, Our Stories: Break the Cycle guides participants through every step of the filmmaking process. Youth involved in the program learn not only the technical aspects of film production but also how to harness their creativity and express their emotions freely. This empowers them to take control of their narratives, challenging limiting beliefs and discovering their potential for a brighter future.

“For youth affected by the justice system, storytelling becomes a lifeline, offering validation, self-expression, and hope,” states Ciera Payton, the Founder and Executive Director of The Michael’s Daughter Foundation and actress known for her role on Tyler Perry’s The Oval. Payton emphasizes how crucial this support from Unlikely Collaborators is, allowing the foundation to expand its vital work and create a safe space for young voices to be heard.

This initiative not only fosters individual growth among participants but also promotes community connection. As they collaborate on their projects, these young filmmakers build relationships with one another, creating a supportive network that can significantly impact their lives moving forward.

The Mission of Unlikely Collaborators
Founded and chaired by Elizabeth R. Koch, Unlikely Collaborators adheres to a philosophy that internal conflict can lead to external disputes. Because of this belief, they strive to support projects that confront societal assumptions, spark important conversations, and promote deeper self-awareness among individuals.

At the core of their mission is the Perception Box concept, established to help people recognize their bias, beliefs, and personal narratives that shape their view of reality. This focus on personal perception aims to unlock compassion and creativity, essential for community healing and progress.

Koch recognizes the importance of storytelling in healing and maintaining hope. “By providing a safe space for youth to share their stories, Our Stories Break the Cycle fosters healing, empowerment, and lasting change,” she asserts.

Looking Ahead
This grant marks a pivotal moment for The Michael's Daughter Foundation, enhancing its ability to nurture resilience and empowerment amongst youth who have been impacted by systemic challenges. By leveraging creativity through storytelling, these young individuals are not only finding their voices but are also redefining their futures.

For those interested in learning more about Our Stories: Break the Cycle, and the ongoing efforts of The Michael’s Daughter Foundation, please visit www.michaelsdaughter.org. To discover more about Unlikely Collaborators and their transformative initiatives, check out www.unlikelycollaborators.com.

Together, they are working towards breaking harmful generational cycles and fostering thriving communities through the simple yet profound act of storytelling.