Narrative Strategies for Systems Change
Through narrative research, media, culture and movement-building strategies rooted in holistic storytelling approaches, we help make complex issues more accessible, relatable and actionable.
uNLOCKING THE POWER OF STORIES
We believe lasting change starts with people. It starts when families can see themselves in the stories shaping public conversation. It grows when communities have access to information that is clear, honest and grounded in lived experience.
In an ever-changing and crowded media, content and information landscape, we leverage narrative strategies designed to help Coloradans better understand the systems shaping everyday life — and the possibilities for building something better. Through narrative research, media, culture and movement-building strategies rooted in holistic storytelling approaches, we help make complex issues more accessible, relatable and actionable.
Our Approach
1
Build Narrative Intelligence
through audience understanding, market research, message testing, narrative evaluation and measurement
2
Raise Narrative Awareness
through journalism strategies that aim to educate and inform audiences through digital, print and broadcast media platforms
3
Create Narrative Resonance
through storytelling strategies that aim to provide emotional resonance through film, TV, podcasts, art and social media platforms that shape audience attitudes and opinions
4
Activate Narrative Movements
through community organizing, convenings and events that transform audiences from narrative observers to believers and champions of people and the issues impacting them
Our COre beliefs
We put this work into practice by leaning into five crucial tenants of effective storytelling.
so the insights of families — especially those most impacted — inform how challenges and solutions are understood
into human-centered, accessible, and emotionally resonant stories that help people see – and feel – how policies and practices affect families
on and offline by bringing forward perspectives, ideas and platforms that are often underrepresented or ignored
across communities and sectors to cultivate common ground and effect lasting change
alongside families and communities to ensure every story is told with integrity, on their terms, and in ways that build trust
What We Fund
We do not currently have any open requests for proposals regarding narrative strategies. In alignment with our approach to grantmaking, we periodically issue specific requests for proposals designed to transform systems to better serve kids and families and expand pathways for families to build wealth and long-term stability. We provide full editorial independence and artistic freedom to grantees, creatives and media partners.
What We Don’t Fund
- Media, culture and movement activations that do not support systems change or wealth building in Colorado
- One-off media and culture activations unconnected to a comprehensive systems change or wealth-building initiative
- Narrative frameworks, reports or white papers
- General operating support for media, creative storytelling or grassroots organizing organizations
- Projects aiming to support the overall sustainability of journalism, the first amendment or the arts and humanities
Stories
Co.Created
CO.created is a community storytelling platform that honors the power of collaboration and the changemakers who partner with us on narrative strategies that drive long-lasting systemic change for Colorado kids and families.
Discover More
The Power of Impermanence
What becomes possible when you have a deadline? It’s not a question most philanthropic institutions are asking themselves.
Standing with Center
Center once had Colorado’s lowest graduation rate. Now it’s among the highest. What fueled the turnaround?
Black Wealth Cannot Wait
In 4 years, The Dearfield Fund has helped first-time Black homebuyers close on more than 230 homes in Colorado.
Struggling to Find Childcare & Preschool in Colorado? this podcast Can Help
Parents and providers, you’re not alone. A growing coalition wants to solve our child care and preschool woes.
shining a light on Child Care in Colorado
We recently provided philanthropic grant funding to a diverse group of researchers, journalists and newsrooms, artists, storytellers, content creators and communicators to raise awareness about the challenges facing Colorado’s child care system. The following stories are among the many pieces published by our grantees.
Colorado Child Care Narrative Survey
Findings from the 2026 Colorado child care narrative survey by Corona Insights.
A day in the life of a child-free Coloradan
— and the child care that makes it possible
moms call attention To child care challenges
The Denver chapter of Chamber of Mothers is asking families to share their experiences.
CO Sun: Out of reach Series
Through grant funding from Gary Community Ventures, The Colorado Sun is taking a microscope to the state’s childcare system
Connect with our team
While we are not currently accepting funding requests, we welcome opportunities to connect with and learn from others using narrative strategies to advance systems change. Email us at communications@garycommunity.org.
