CHARLESTON, W.Va. – The Episcopal Diocese of West Virginia is embarking on an ambitious five-year project to document and amplify the stories of faith within the state and across the Appalachian region. Dubbed Seeds of Hope Storytelling, the initiative aims to capture the resilience, compassion, and spiritual lives of individuals and communities often overlooked in broader narratives. The project is currently seeking a creative director to lead its implementation, signaling a significant investment in community-based storytelling.
Funded by a grant, Seeds of Hope Storytelling recognizes the power of personal narratives to foster connection and understanding. Appalachia, a region historically defined by economic hardship and cultural stereotypes, is rich with stories of faith, perseverance, and mutual aid. This project seeks to move beyond those stereotypes and present a more nuanced and authentic portrait of life in the region. The diocese believes that sharing these stories can not only strengthen existing communities but also inspire hope and collaboration.
Capturing Voices Across Appalachia
The creative director will play a pivotal role in shaping the program’s identity and reach. Working closely with the Canon for Communications & Congregational Development and the Seeds of Hope project manager, the position will oversee branding, media production, and the planning of an annual storytelling festival. According to the job description, the role also includes grant reporting and the execution of storytelling trainings and events throughout West Virginia.
The scope of Seeds of Hope extends beyond the immediate boundaries of the Episcopal Diocese of West Virginia. The program specifically aims to include stories from neighboring Appalachian communities, acknowledging the shared cultural and spiritual heritage of the region. The Appalachian Regional Commission defines Appalachia as a 205,000-square-mile region encompassing parts of 13 states, including West Virginia, Kentucky, Tennessee, and North Carolina. More information about the region and its challenges can be found on the ARC website.
A Multi-Faceted Approach to Storytelling
The project’s emphasis on media production suggests a commitment to diverse storytelling formats. While the specific mediums haven’t been detailed, the creative director’s responsibilities indicate a potential for incorporating photography, video, audio recordings, and written narratives. The annual storytelling festival, a key component of the program, will provide a platform for sharing these stories with a wider audience. The festival is envisioned as a celebration of Appalachian culture and faith, offering opportunities for connection and dialogue.
The diocese is offering flexibility in work location, allowing for remote work from within West Virginia or nearby states. This reflects an understanding of the geographic challenges of the region and a desire to attract a diverse pool of applicants. The position is based out of the diocesan offices in Charleston, West Virginia, but the emphasis on outreach and community engagement suggests that the creative director will spend significant time traveling throughout the state and surrounding areas.
Training and Community Engagement
A core element of Seeds of Hope is the provision of storytelling trainings. These workshops will equip individuals and community groups with the skills and resources to document and share their own stories. This emphasis on capacity-building is intended to ensure the long-term sustainability of the project and empower local voices. The trainings will likely cover topics such as interviewing techniques, narrative structure, and ethical considerations in storytelling.
The program’s success hinges on building strong relationships with community organizations, faith-based groups, and local leaders. The creative director will be responsible for promoting Seeds of Hope at events, festivals, and conferences, fostering collaboration and raising awareness of the project’s goals. This outreach will be crucial for identifying compelling stories and ensuring that the program reaches a broad and diverse audience.
The program overview details that Seeds of Hope is a five-year initiative, suggesting a long-term commitment to documenting and celebrating faith in Appalachia. The project’s timeline will likely involve phased implementation, with initial efforts focused on establishing the program’s infrastructure and building relationships with key stakeholders.
The deadline to apply for the Creative Director position is not yet specified, but interested candidates are encouraged to review the full job description and submit their applications as soon as possible. The Episcopal Diocese of West Virginia is seeking a passionate and skilled storyteller to lead this vital initiative, one that promises to illuminate the vibrant faith and resilience of the Appalachian people.
The next step for the Seeds of Hope Storytelling project is the selection of a creative director, a process that will shape the program’s direction and impact. Updates on the hiring process and the program’s progress will be available on the Episcopal Diocese of West Virginia website. We invite you to share this story and contribute to the conversation about the power of storytelling to build bridges and inspire hope.
