A nonprofit agency was struggling to make stories out of data they they captured for their annual impact assessment report. One statistic–1 in 5 children can’t read–was the basis of a story they wanted me to help them with.
Statistics need context. A story needs a protagonist. When in doubt, or as a story prompt, try the journalistic, WHO, WHAT, WHEN, WHERE, and WHY.
Sally came home crying when her friends at school made fun of her because she can’t read.
There was more to weaving data into story for this agency, of course, but you get the idea. A story, especially a nonprofit story, is best told from the point of view of those you serve. If you’re not sure why this matters or how to accomplish this let’s meet for coffee or chat by phone.
Communication takes place within the other person.