Enabling Solutions

Stories hold the power to inspire change, motivate action, and build community. By weaving together your personal experiences with the challenges we face and the urgency of the moment, you can help your work reach a wider audience and motivate meaningful engagement. 

This workshop draws from the Public Narrative Framework, developed by Professor Marshall Ganz of the Harvard Kennedy School, to help individuals answer three powerful questions: 1) Why am I called to this work? 2) Who is my community in this work? 3) Why is now the time to act? In many areas of  public health, facts and data alone are not enough and emotionally resonant storytelling is key to engaging others.

The workshop is offered to researchers and practitioners who are part of CAFE’s community of practice. Active participation and practice are central to making the most of this experience. By accepting a slot in this workshop, participants commit to fully engaging in the process—including attending all sessions, preparing your personal narrative, presenting it to your peers, and receiving individualized coaching. 

Survey results from last year’s workshop show that all respondents:

• Gained a clearer understanding of public narrative principles.
• Reported improved skills in research communication.
• Indicated they plan to use public narrative in their public health efforts.

Most respondents reported increased confidence and a deeper sense of connection through the workshop. 

The workshop consists of four sessions: November 13, November 20, December 4, and December 11, 9:00–11:00 a.m. ET.

Applications were due September 12, 2025 and are now closed.