Storytelling is an innately human tradition, by which people share their experiences and learn from one another. Stories of community participation written and shared by young people have the potential to highlight strengths and strategies young people use to engage in their communities. Directed by Dr. Snethen, this project builds on the Temple RRTC’s prior work (http://tucollaborative.org/wp-content/uploads/Storytelling-Manual.pdf) developing and implementing community participation storytelling trainings and hosting associated “storyslams.”
This project supports peer support providers who work with Young Adults with SMHC from disadvantaged backgrounds to develop and share their own stories of community participation and use this process to support Young Adults in doing the same. Peer support is an emergent service within mental health services for Young Adults. Community participation stories feature experiences of participation in diverse topics like education, new jobs, independence, or friendship/family tales. Storytelling can be a powerful tool for peer support providers to inspire Young Adults with SMHC from disadvantaged backgrounds to pursue their participation interests.