Telling Their Story, Respectfully: Ethical Storytelling for CBOs

BREAKOUT #3

LOCATION: CROSS TIMBERS 2

This session will walk through a practical framework for storytelling that protects the dignity and agency of the people we serve, even when there are no formal guidelines or policies in place.

About This Session

Description

Storytelling is one of the most powerful tools a CBO has — but how do we collect and share client stories in a way that is ethical, trauma-informed, and empowering? This session will walk through a practical framework for storytelling that protects the dignity and agency of the people we serve, even when there are no formal guidelines or policies in place.

We’ll explore how to collect, craft, and share stories — including tips on writing policies, gaining informed consent, and sharing stories without exploiting vulnerability. You’ll also learn alternative storytelling methods when client confidentiality is a concern, such as third-person narratives, volunteer or staff perspectives, and composite stories.

What we'll cover:

Learning Outcomes:

  • Understand the elements of ethical, trauma-informed storytelling
  • Learn how to develop basic story-sharing policies and permission processes
  • Explore storytelling alternatives when client anonymity is crucial
  • See how ethical storytelling builds trust, credibility, and community support

Interactive Element: Attendees will discuss story examples in small groups, reflect on current practices, and receive a take-home checklist for ethical story collection and sharing.

Topics & Focus

Primary Topic Area
Session will also cover:

Assigned by TCALL

Audience
Level
Case study?
no
Promotion?
no

Find definitions of topic areas, audiences, levels, and PD categories by clicking on any icon, or see them all on this page.

A note from the presenter:

No other info available at this time.

Handouts & Materials

No handouts or materials available at this time.

“Name of Session” – session presentation slides (PDF)

Name of Document – lesson sample (PDF)

Name of Document (PDF)

Name of Document – infographic (JPG)

Presenter

Campbell, Julia

Julia Campbell
Principal
Marketing for the Modern Nonprofit

Named as a top thought leader and one to follow by Forbes and LinkedIn for Nonprofits, and one of the 30 Nonprofit IT Influencers to Follow in 2025, Julia Campbell is a wealth of knowledge when it comes to designing social media and storytelling strategies that help nonprofits share their mission across the digital landscape.

An international keynote speaker and host of the acclaimed Nonprofit Nation podcast, she’s written two books for nonprofits on social media and storytelling, and her online courses, webinars, and talks have helped hundreds of nonprofits make the shift to digital thinking.

You can learn more about Julia at www.jcsocialmarketing.com/blog

Breakout26 – CAMPBELL

Page checked or updated: 6/10/2026

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