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Information for Community Organizations

Supporting Connection
in Communities

Community work depends on strong relationships. Narrative 4 uses story to help people understand one another.

Two boys hold Narrative 4 documents standing together.
Participants work on art together at tables during a workshop.

Community organizations play a critical role in strengthening their regions. Narrative 4 partners with nonprofits, grassroots groups, and civic organizations to support this work. Ready to take the first step? Connect with us to start a conversation.

From disconnection to shared action

Creating Space for Connection & Change

Community work is complex. People bring different stories, needs, and perspectives into the same space. Without spaces for listening, community tensions deepen. Narrative 4 uses story to help communities listen, relate to one another,
and move forward together.

Story Exchange Workshops

Story Exchange Workshops bring people together to share personal stories and to listen. This process helps community members feel seen, heard, and more connected to one another.

Facilitator Training

Story Exchange Facilitator Training prepares you to lead Story Exchanges in your community or organization. You’ll learn how to guide conversations, support listening, and create spaces where everyone feels respected. Training is open to anyone — leaders, volunteers, staff, and more.

A child stands behind a brightly colored collaborative artwork.
An older man speaking with a student.
A picture of Kat Holstlaw.

N4 has allowed us to build a sense of community and has established connections between peers and staff that wouldn’t have been possible [before]…every youth should feel supported during their journey.

Kat Holstlaw
Afterschool Coordinator, Uka, Illinois

Get Started
with Narrative 4

A Narrative 4 facilitator leads a workshop.

Continue Exploring N4

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Research

Explore research that explains why connection matters at work and how story-based approaches support engagement and communication.

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Stories from the Field

Discover real-world examples of how Narrative 4’s work shows up in organizations, schools, and communities.

Media Highlights

Find articles, interviews, and features that highlight Narrative 4’s work in education and communities.
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Resources to Support
Your Work

Use these resources to prepare for Story Exchanges, support facilitators, and build understanding within your organization.

Planning & Facilitation Tools

Find ready-to-use tools and lesson plans to use as a facilitator. These tools help you prepare for Story Exchanges and guide conversations with care and intention

Learn to Lead Story Exchanges

Facilitator Training prepares staff and youth leaders to guide Story Exchanges with confidence. It covers everything from creating welcoming spaces to leading the exchange. The skills gained can be used across courses and student programs.

A group of people sitting in a circle during a story exchange.
Two students having a discussion while sitting across from each other.
Two participants review notes together at an event.

N4 in the Media

  • Article , Aug 08, 2025

     Carnegie Corporation of New York wrote a feature on N4!

    This week, Narrative 4 was honored to be featured by the Carnegie Corporation of New York in their article, “Your Story, My Story: How Narrative 4 Builds Understanding”.

  • The power of stories helps young people overcome differences: Narrative 4 on PBS
    Article , Jul 16, 2025

    Narrative 4 Shines on PBS NewsHour

    Last month, PBS NewsHour featured a heartwarming segment on Narrative 4, as part of its Art in Action series. Senior arts correspondent Jeffrey Brown explored how Narrative 4’s signature Story Exchanges are helping young people build compassion and bridge divides—whether political, cultural or socioeconomic.

  • Article , Feb 05, 2025

    ‘Tell Stories of Hope’ Narrative 4 Joins Pope Francis at the Vatican

    Narrative 4 hosted a one-of-a-kind Story Exchange at the Vatican with 130 young journalists from 62 countries at the Jubilee of the World of Communication Conference.