Momma’s Boy
Jessie Bates III’s story as told to Mitchell Carter The car had hit a snowbank…
Facing Hunger from Kansas State University (Manhattan, Kansas)
Making The World 1% Safer
Scotty Lee’s story as told to John Lynch Are you 1% better than you were…
Let’s Talk About It
Jordyn Carswell’s story as told to Alex Schmitt The world is full of differences. There…
Accepting Your Mental Health
Trey Moses’ story as told to Thomas “TC” Deckard I remember just looking over at…
The Story of a Modern Day Erin Brockovich
There is no such thing as a normal day at the Breadbasket. I get up…
The Story of a Grandmother
My mom was a single parent. Toys were something we deserved, like the organ I…
The Story of a Survivor of the System
My real parents were abusive, so when I was nine-months -old I was sent to…
The Story of a Helper
I never expected to end up in Manhattan, Kansas, especially coming from a place like…
The Story of an Immigrant
Moving to America has brought about many changes in my life. I’ve had to leave…
The Story of a Futurist
Hope is easy to find when you’re young. Open the door and walk on through.…
The Story of an International Student
In January, my wife, newborn son, and I came to Manhattan, Kansas from Mexico. We…
The Story of a Hit-and-Run Survivor
Jobs are hard to come by; I’m still currently looking. I’ve worked at Wendy’s, a…
The Story of a Cosmetologist
I just got a job today so thank God for that. But that leaves me…
The Story of an Independent Woman
I have always considered myself to be an independent woman. I don’t like to have…
The Story of a Gardener
I’m addicted. Addicted to daylilies. I’m in three daylily clubs. One in Salina, Topeka, and…
The Story of a Caretaker
I grew up in Wyoming. When I lived there with my family I had a…
The Story of a Veteran
I am a thirty six year old Army Veteran. I served thirteen years in the…
The Story of a Librarian
Hunger can happen to anyone, from any background. You never know how quickly things can…
The Story of a Fighter
My adopted mother made me who I am. I watched my mother be killed right…
The Story of a Lifelong Learner
My mother had an eleventh grade education. She got married because she got pregnant, but…
The Story of a Future Educator
Most people don’t think college students struggle with hunger. And most college students are good…
The Story of a Provider
The gas station just cut my hours, and the hospital my wife was a nurse…
Jolie Marie’s Story
Jolie Marie’s Story 19 The age my life changes forever. Nevada highways on a Harley…
Improbably Vulnerable
What you can’t see in the photos of Jason and I walking through the woods…
Living Truth
This summer, I went on a dream trip to France: sleeping in an ancient…
Twice Convicted…Forever Free
The year was 1991 and I was in my late 20s chronologically speaking, but I…
A young mother with 18-cents to her name struggles to feed her child
Episode 11 of The Facing Project is available now! You hear a story. You are…
Episode 11: Stories that inspired action against human trafficking
Episode 11 of The Facing Project is available now! Each Facing Project seeks to create…
Episode 10: The Depths of Addiction: Breaking Cycles
Relapse can cause many individuals struggling with drug addiction to feel like they have failed.…
A Shift in Perspective… and Ryan Reynolds
She sent me to Christian therapy to “fix me” once, my mother. She tried anyway.…
Coming Back to Life
I was studying to be a minister when I fell in love with another minister.…
Where Do I Fit Into The Rainbow?
I always thought I was a lesbian. I came out to myself when I was…
Express Yourself, Own Your Story
Classmates started calling me gay in 5th or 6th grade. I just never told them…
Curls
My family cried when I cut them off: half a spine’s length of corkscrews that…
My Brother’s Acceptance Helped Me Accept Myself
It took a while for me to accept myself as gay. I was raised in…
Kind of a Funny Story
The real reason Dracula could not see his own reflection in the mirror wasn’t…
What Does It Mean to Make Progress
My husband had a hard time when he first found out our son is gay.…
Questioning My Way to Queer
I have not always been comfortable sharing my own story. Raised in a conservative, Pentecostal…
An Open Letter to my Community
It’s a small world, being gay in Indiana. You know everybody because there’s not a…
Just Ask Me
I’ve always known I wasn’t straight. I thought it was completely normal to be attracted…
On Bowling Together
The very first time a middle-school student told me they were trans, they were very…
Keeping the Light On
When I was seven years old, I went through a phase where I was convinced…
The Word I Was Looking For and the Words I Found
Growing up, I knew I was different. There were parts of me that didn’t fit…
They Will Always Be My Child
I had C.S. on my mind for quite a while. They remember . . .…
Coming Out of a Mindset
I became a youth pastor to help kids and teens grow into healthy young adults.…
Sometimes You Just Have to Come Back
I thought that once I left Muncie I was never coming back. Right after graduating…
My Body, My Prison
My dad still mourns the loss of his son. His Facebook posts show me with…
Finding Where I Belong
Do you want the short version or the long version? I didn’t even know who…
Creating My Space (For Our Space)
My grandpa outed my aunt to me on a road trip to Tennessee. “I think…
20 Minutes changed my life.
It is amazing to me how a chance encounter with another person can test your…
A little bit messy, a little bit ruined. A beautiful disaster.
I’ve never been someone who dresses really girly. I’m always in leggings and a T-shirt;…
When the Bomb Went Off
Can you find the Marshall Islands on a map? Did you know that from 1946…
No One
We were sitting on the couch and they came in and said, “Your daddy passed…
Hollywood’s Poem (You Know. I Know. I Mean.)
Somewhere between what I think & what I say is what I mean. Old guns,…
Cycles of Life
In some sense, where I am today completes a circle in my life path. From…
Man on a Mission
Understanding Christianity did not become real to me until my senior year at Ball State…
Unexpected Faces of Poverty
As I lifted 1,176 jugs of apple cider into vehicles on Thursday morning, my heart…
A Square Peg
I am the oldest of seven kids. We were raised in middle class by strict…
Limbo
There is nothing more heartbreaking than listening to your child cry “dada” while he is…
An Open Door
When I was younger, there was no doubt in my mind that I wanted to…
Not Just a Driver
I am a driver, but not just any driver: a deliverer. Most people see me…
How can you find a love through the site and make a mistake?
Recognize that none of you designed to destroy the pair beforehand, each individuals moves with…
Difference is not a problem, it’s a strength
Diversity makes our communities stronger, more colorful, more interesting, more adaptable places to live. But…
Please don’t ask what’s wrong with my child?
A mom asks people to see her daughter with autism for who she is on…
The woman on the treadmill
A college student, decides that self-love is more important than letting other people define her…
Love shouldn’t hurt
Think about the mothers, daughters, aunts, and friends in your life as you read this…
When LGBTQ Teens Are Rejected By Their Families
What happens when LGBTQ teens are rejected by their families? According to The Trevor Project:…
Paying it Forward: Dion’s Story
Dion Sampson’s Story I have lived in Dayton my whole life. I love my community…
Politicized
Jacqueline Patterson’s Story I remember great Grandma taking me into the voting booth with her.…
I Am Proud: Roma’s Story
Roma Stephens’ Story I have been to hell and back. I have seen the army…
Heart and Home: The Story of Ray and Shelby
Ray and Shelby Deck’s Story Ray grew up in Dayton and has been here almost…
They Still Call Me Coach
John Ivory’s Story I’m just glad to be from North Dayton an’ Dayton. Dayton’s been…
Cory’s OND: A Town of Transition
Cory Ivory’s Story It was, for me, a very close neighborhood growing up. We would go…
Full Circle
Mary Jo Dahm’s Story I was born in Old North Dayton to my fabulous mother…
A Grandfather’s Destinee
Les Hamilton’s Story I’m gonna give you some homework. When you get home, I want…
Sharon’s Story: Pave the Way
Sharon Mitchell’s Story The bus will let them off in the back and they’ll come…
Where Are You Now? Jerry Bowling III’s Story of Reinvention
Jerry Bowling’s Story Jerry Bowling has lived in McCook Field for nearly all his life…
Facing Neighborhoods: Dale’s Story
Dale Richardson’s Story One night I came home and got into bed and my wife…
My Life in Dayton: Jamesetta’s Story
Jamesetta Lewis’ Story My name is Jamesetta and I was born and raised in Knoxville,…
Through Life’s Changes, God Provides
Bill Johnson’s Story I have learned many lessons during my 77 years of life: relationships…
Reminiscing: Willie’s Story
Willie Clemons’ Story It’s everything. My neighborhood means everything to me. I was born in…
The Story of Me
Linda Burks’ Story I grew up in a large family; I have four sisters and…
The Best of Times and the Worst of Times
Charles Burks’ Story While I grew up in a time when racism and discrimination were…
Blessed in the Valley: The Life Story of Billi Ewing
Billi Ewing’s Story The word “valley” can be defined as an “elongated depression in Earth’s…
The Story of Helen Serrano
Helen Serrano’s Story I was born July 19, 1951 in Brooklyn New York. My parents…
My Neighborhood
Joan Means’ Story My husband, Michael, and I, along with five children and a dog…
Rediscovering Our Values: Dayton Through My Brown Eyes
Steve Ross’ Story I was born in Dayton Ohio, on September 16, 1952 in the…
Just Keeping Hope: Margaret’s Story
Margaret Smith’s Story I’ve always lived in Dayton but not always in my current neighborhood.…
The Ties That Bind
Dorothy Woods’ Story I don’t know why they took away the Priority Boards. They were…
Family, Community, and a Life of Politics
Tom Roberts’ Story I was born and raised in the city of Dayton. I grew…
My Grandbaby,
Linda Woods’ Story Have I ever told you the story of how you got your…
The Rugrats of Harvard Blvd.
Marco Marmolejo’s Story Some of the kids these days just drive me crazy. It makes…
Influence to Dominance
Dev Bailey’s Story When I was growing up I spent most of my time outdoors.…
Changing Neighborhoods
Mama Nozipo Glenn’s Story I lived in Africa until ’72, lived in Nashville, TN until…
Dayton: The Home I Never Thought I’d Have
Leona Marmolejo’s Story I wasn’t born and raised in Dayton…I’m actually from Chicago. How did…
Community: Common Unity
Gwen Buchanan’s Story Community activism was huge in my upbringing. It taught me the importance…
Community Centered
Barbara Pinson’s Story The first time I saw Carillon we were riding down Stewart Street…
Investing in Our Community
Mary Varnado’s Story I’ve been in the neighborhood since ’62. Almost everyone I know is…
Hard Times for Teachers, Students, and Curriculum: How We Educate in Indiana
Allan Kidd’s story as told to John Volbrecht Hard times for teachers are not a…
Lighting the Way
Niki Fitzgerald’s story as told to Gabriella Fluhler Just another move. Just another school. Nothing…
“I believe I can fly!”
An anonymous story as told to Gabriella Fluhler I will never forget the happiness in…
Do I Want to be a Teacher?
An anonymous story as told to Andrea Eads I knew I liked biology and could…
The Difference between Fate and Choice
Holly Mosier’s story as told to Janay Sander “What is the Medicaid card doing up…
Mrs. Miller, You Set Us Up
Barbara’s story as told to Clarissa Bowers Early in my teaching career, I took a…
Anonymously told to Suzanne Clem
My dad grew up dirt-floor poor. My grandfather struggled with alcoholism, which made it hard…
Writing My Husband’s Story One Student At A Time
An anonymous story as told to Michael Daehn I have been an elementary school teacher…
It’s Hard to Teach When You Can’t Pay Your Bills
Pat McCrory’s story as told to Matt C. Bloom I came home and my wife…
Votes for My Students: Legislation for Holistic Education
Melanie Wright’s story as told to Susan Volbrecht I ran as a state representative because…
Is Teaching Worth It?
An anonymous story as told to Todd Smekens When you grow up with a father…
Facing Education
An anonymous story as told to Kate H. Elliott My classroom mascot is a Yeti,…
Aloha Shirt Man Thanks the Students Who Made His School Psychology Career a Gift
By Michael Brockley In the beginning, I showed you how to scramble blocks. Now at…
A Pocket Biography of a Teacher of the Year
Kazakhstan My introduction to kids with disabilities occurred while I worked in a Kazakhstan camp…
He Who Does the Work Learns
Deb Kirkman’s story as told to Deena Wickliffe It took a long time to say…
A Teacher’s Heart
Felicia Gray’s story as told to Beth A. Messner I was born with a teacher’s…
Teachers Shape our Community
WaTasha Barnes Griffin’s story as told to Caroline Siler I am a mom who supports…
Embarrassing Moment led to a Breakthrough
Deena’s story as told to Caroline Siler Growing up I never realized just how human…
United We Teach
Jenni McGalliard Marsh’s story as told to WaTasha Barnes Griffin I was a teacher’s kid…
Anonymous as told to Megan Mullins
Teaching children has been a great profession for me. I’ve gained more than I’ve given.…
The Story of 2017
2017 was a year of growth for The Facing Project. As we count down the…
Life After High School
As told to Ian Cree Life After High school It was my junior…
The Story of Brianna Gilbert
The Story of Brianna Gilbert as Told By Joshua Shelton “Live life for the moment…
Finding My Voice
Sota Fujimoto as told to Amanda Trogus Finding my Voice My name is Sota…
Trailblazing a Family Legacy
Dr. Edward Potcanowicz as told to Mitchell Colvin Trail Blazing a Family Legacy, Dr.…
Pathway Through Transitions
Cody’s Story as told to Victoria Ternes Pathway Through Transitions I thought…
More Than My Chair
Morgan’s story, as told to Sammy Voors More Than My Chair When I was first…
Facing Life After High School: The Story of Clay Burkholder
As told to Emily Gremling Facing Life After High School: The Story of Clay Burkholder…
My Rock, My Reason, My Grandmother
About Freshman Austin Smith as told to Cheyenne Smith My Rock, My Reason, My Grandmother…
Small Town, Big Personality
About Jeannie Blevins as told to Hallie Woods Small Town Big Personality Through my…
Life is like a garden . . .
The Life Story of William Mancuso as told to Abby Godwin I love to garden.…
I Would Never Be Like Him
The story of Sanson Frendo as told to Mya Ray I Would Never Be Like…
The Story of a Mother
As told to Autumn Snesrud. I woke up this morning with a feeling in my…
Drugs Destroy Lives
As told to Kelly Sickafoose. I had a great mom and dad, both pillars of…
What is Not Love
Kiara’s story as told by Katrina Brown and Megan Caldwell. It all started a…
Time In Need Means Time To Serve
Silvia Tefore Age 73 When I was a little girl I always dreamed that when…
Something’s Got To Give
The Story of the Georgia Mountain Food Bank I am not a food pantry, although…
School Social Work
Danielle Age, 35 I always tell people the easiest way to understand school social work…
The Queen of Gainesville
The Story of the Queen City Bridge I am the Queen of Gainesville. I have…
Pride and Change
Peyton’s Story Age, 22 During the Spring semester of 2016, I had an internship at…
Marijuana, Forgiveness, and Redemption
Age 23 If you ever walk into Good News at Noon, you’ll notice a heavy…
I Never Worry About My Electric Bill
Ted Age 55 Laughing, I look out the window. What a great night it’s been.…
Housing: The Cornerstone
Mark Age, 28 I am an Assistant Public Defender. Any felony case that gets assigned…
Home Sweet Home
Jonathan Smith Age 34 Homelessness. When I think of homelessness I think of underprivileged, injustices,…
Having A 4G Life
Jah-Boo Age 37 Growing up in Albany, Ga. in my early 20’s, there was a…
Have Faith
Margaret Age 49 Food always felt like a connecting point, food could help break the…
Facing My Giant
David Age, 54 I have faced many struggles in my life. These struggles make and…
By the Grace of God, We Just Did It
Kay Blackstock Raising three children as a single mother, nobody knew my struggle. My kids…
Behind the Scenes
Brandee Age 30 I’ve always been a helper, which is how I ended up here.…
Bad Habits
Raymond Age 49 I’ll be 50 next April. I’m a Taurus. We can be mean…
Against All Odds
Kay Age 20 I went to seven schools in Atlanta, lived in three hotels, a…
Being the Key
As told to Abby Walton by Lisa Combs. Lisa’s story. She is 48. I first…
Taking Flight
Meredith’s Story / 19 years old written by Megan Haynes I have faded scars. Some…
Finding Home
As told to writer Cindy Baldwin I lay on the floor of my silent mobile…
A Lesson in Gratitude
As told to Cathy Shouse Journalist, novelist, author of Images of America Fairmount & Community…
Missing My Sister
Jennifer’s story written by Christine Rhine God, just let me die, I whispered. Everybody will be…
Helicopter Mom
“I hope when my daughter grows up, I will be her best friend like my…
A Cultural Racial Identity Struggle
“Since my return from India, I know who I am and to whom I belong.…
No Second Chances: Life with a Permanent Record
“I am not my crimes. I want to be remembered for more than that.”
What’s on the Menu?
“My parents and the R.A.C.E. Group that we attend have taught me, through dialogues and…
Text Message Received
“This time I texted back right away, and let this person finally know who I…
Emily’s Thoughts on Racism
We could all learn some lessons from this 12 year old
The Story of a Jail Program Coordinator
“These adults are vulnerable; as rough and tough as they may seem, they are easily…
Remembrance of a Legacy
“What does it mean if you contribute so much to a community and a place…
The Question Mark
What separates us: Black . . .White . . .Yellow . . .Brown?
You Can Only Go So Far With Optimism
“Second chances are hard to come by nowadays. The world forgets that people make dumb…
Abdullah Albayk’s Story
Abdullah Albayk’s Story As retold by Jacob Baum and Ashley Harris The rising sun threw…
Abner Vallecillo’s Story
Abner Vallecillo’s Story As retold by Raquel Osborn Many people think that there are cities…
Andrea Rivera’s Story
Andrea Rivera’s Story As retold by Jillian Lueker I’ve never really seen myself as a…
Chi Tiet’s Story
Chi Tiet’s Story As retold by Kelsie Rose I was 23 with my life figured…
DJenebou Doumbouya’s Story
DJenebou Doumbouya’s Story As retold by Patricia Wisenbaugh My son loves the snow. Two inches…
Duong Phan’s Story
Duong Phan’s Story As retold by Michaella Ford As I walked into class on the…
Gupartap Singh’s Story
Gupartap Singh’s Story As retold by Alysa Figgins I was born in India in Holy…
Hanan Alnassar’s Story
Hanan Alnassar’s Story As retold by Mary Rily-Walravin My story is not like my fellow…
Nina’s Story
Nina’s Story As retold by Lauren Gould “If you can dream it, you can do…
Jessica Galindo’s Story
Jessica Galindo’s Story As retold by Brianna Bilodeau When I was three years old my…
Jose Gomez Macias’ Story
Jose Gomez Macias’ Story As retold by Gwendolyn Hopkins Contradiction Saltillo Coahuila, Mexico Most of…
Laura Ybarra’s Story
Laura Ybarra’s Story As retold by Arianna Pittenger Looking back at my life now it…
Maria Martinez’ Story
Maria Martinez’s Story As retold by Rachel Osborn and Debra Gibes What defines me? It…
Marcella Rahmon’s Story
Marcella Rahmon’s Story As retold by Janasia Thomas-Gant The Move: Part One My mom is…
Marylin (Amaya) Stancroff’s Story
Marylin (Amaya) Stancroff’s Story As retold by Jazzmin Jackson Eighteen hours each week, its only…
Mawa Tabir’s Story
Mawa Tabir’s Story As retold by Rachael Hinton I have been many things in my…
Minh Dang’s Story
Minh Dang’s Story As retold by Elizabeth Draeger “We must let go of the life…
Mohamed Ashmawy’s Story
Mohamed Ashmawy’s Story As retold by Dakota Holzwarth I am a modest man and…
Mustafa Almahasnah’s Story
Mustafa Almahasnah’s Story As retold by Haley Burnett In 2007, I graduated high school. Honestly,…
Ola El-Wahsh’s Story
Ola El-Wahsh’s Story As retold by Rebecca Parsell I wish there was a universal language…
Pardeep Kaur’s Story
Pardeep Kaur’s Story As retold by Debra Gibes I should be nervous, and I am,…
Rania Khirfan’s Story
Rania Khirfan’s Story As retold by Alyssa Linn To my father, school was never “optional.” …
Regina Hernandez’ Story
Regina Hernandez’s Story As retold by Sharonda Love-Wilson I am the youngest in the family.…
Seema Botz’ Story
Seema Botz’s Story As retold by Anthony Koro and Rodney Summers Walking through winter, I…
Serena Enemodia’s Story
They say girls shouldn’t go to schoolSerena Enemodia’s StoryAs retold to Rylee Fritsch from The…
Shuruq Alshakhi‘s Story
Shuruq Alshakhi‘s Story As retold by Rachel Moffitt My English Dictionary Home/hōm/ Some may think…
Thao Tran’s Story
Thao Tran’s Story As retold by Mackenzie Kato I have always known what I’ve wanted…
Vera Koval’s Story
Vera Koval’s Story As retold by Rachel Gonser My story is made up of many…
Wafa Alwageeh’s Story
Wafa Alwageeh’s Story As retold by Anna Spoelman I was in a supermarket once and…
One Day at a Time
“My father has never been in the picture, so my mom and I were very…
Transcending Racism with Culture and Pride
“High School basketball coach was a tremendous bigot. He did not want me to get…
The Life of Tom
“About 90% of the people in jail have had at least one major traumatic life…
Sunrise, Sundown
Then, I understood. This is how hate survives. This is how hatred is learned and…
Doing Both?
“I am a mother first and an attorney second. I had this precious little baby…
Ok I’ll do it |
“Whereas in my last year at my all black elementary school, I was learning algebra,…
‘Our’ Issue |
“Seeing an offender as the actual person they are, rather than just seeing their offense,…
Cutting Up. Getting Along. Working Together. |
“You know, they were my people. I mean, everybody is completely different. Black, white, green,…
A House by Themselves
“Losing my brother was probably the worst thing that’s happened to me, but having my…
Behind the Face of Criminal Justice in the Chippewa Valley
“All I ever wanted to be was the mom who could survive. To do good…
Love Over Fear
“I want to teach children who go through similar accidents or the loss of a…
It’s the Passion
“The problem now is that people are not starting bands at the rate that local…
Breaking Cycles |
“At that time the court only focused on addiction. It never dug into the relationship…
The Anger is Mine |
“What compels me the most about my journey is all the hatred and anger that…
Where My Story Begins
“Just like that, they were gone. Lives were changed as families were separated, leaving tear-stained…
Madelyn’s Story
“We can’t have apathy or ignore something because we don’t think it is our problem…
Mary’s Story
“The bomb from Bikini Island—the biggest one ever—is what lit the sky that morning when…
Reuben’s Story
“If you have a loved one with an addiction, the best thing you can do…
The New Racism
“The racism that I experience takes the form of microaggressions. This is the new racism.…
Just a Tiny Little Scene
“That makes me realize that it’s no longer a tiny little scene, here in Greeley.”…
To the Boy Who Works at the Café Down the Street
When I have the money, I come down and buy coffee from you. It’s not…
Ken’s Story
“Research has shown that having a diverse mix of people from various socioeconomic statuses is…
Sink or Swim; in Code
“I was tested over and over. I just made myself irreplaceable and developed skills no…
Stand Up
“You will find that a person that’s going to ridicule someone for something is usually…
Corrie Smith
I can face me because that’s who I had to overcome to get to where…
It Shouldn’t Matter
She never said, “You stay away from the white side of the street.” She just…
The Story of One Marshallese Woman
As told by Camilla Hemann I came here in the fall of the year. It…
An Anonymous Marshallese Story
As told by Marie Therese Kalb It was ten years ago – I was 9…
An Anonymous Marshallese Story
As told by C. Jean Hayen In 1995, I was born in Majuro, Marshall Island.…
Donella Samson’s Story
As told by Mary Jean Ferry My name is Danella Samson. I am a single…
Arcie Lokeijak’s Story
As told by Mary Ellen Caldwell In 1997, when I was l7 years old and…
Barlina Samson’s Story
As told by Mira Mosle Christmas In 1857, missionaries came from Boston to preach. This…
An Anonymous Marshallese Story
As told by C. Jean Hayen After my Catholic high school graduation on a Marshallese…
An Anonymous Marshallese Story
As told by Marian Klostermann I came here to the U.S. in November 2006. My…
Methelindia Joe’s Story
As told by Donalda Kehoe When my mother and father came from the Marshall Islands,…
The Evolution of a Small Agricultural Town
“Greeley is really different. It almost looks nothing like the small place that I knew…
Sarah’s Search for Identity
“Because alienation is a disease we can fight.”
When Unrest Came to Middleton
“I worry now because I see it starting again. . .the unrest is coming back.…
Taking a Chance
“I’m in my early seventies, and I’ve never actively tried to hide being gay, even…
A Long Road Travelled
“Education is the key to escape the bonds of racism. Both society and individuals must…
Irene Ernest’s Story
“The pharmacists taught us how to take care of ourselves with the medicines that we…
Love, Hope, and Music
“My aunt, who goes to that church, told me ‘If they are going to treat…
Facing Diversity: Marshallese Stories
After WWII, the US used the Marshall Islands for Nuclear Bomb Tests. Now, Many Island…
Eli Asbury Underwood
“So I changed my major. And I felt alive. I knew this change was necessary…
Facing Childhood and Adolescence in Iowa’s Cedar Valley: Running Past the Trees
Illustrated by: J.D. & Abby K. Written by: Alex I like going to my aunt’s…
Facing Childhood and Adolescence in Iowa’s Cedar Valley: A New Friend
I made a new friend, let’s just call her A. She’s been with me for…
Facing Childhood and Adolescence in Iowa’s Cedar Valley: Waiting…
Illustrated by: Ethan Written by: Day It’s not that I don’t wanna tell you how…
Facing Childhood and Adolescence in Iowa’s Cedar Valley: A Big Mistake
Illustrated by: Kaitlyn Written by: Rayvon I had a pretty dull childhood. But, there is…
Facing Childhood and Adolescence in Iowa’s Cedar Valley: Hometowns
Illustrated by: Denae Written by: Dedra When I was younger I went to live with…
Facing Childhood and Adolescence in Iowa’s Cedar Valley: Beats and Lyrics
Illustrated by: Hailey & Liv Written by: Daniel I walked down the rickety stairs as…
Facing Childhood and Adolescence in Iowa’s Cedar Valley: For You My Future Daughter
Illustrated by: Hailey Written by: Au Revoir For you, my future daughter. I shall shower…
Facing Childhood and Adolescence in Iowa’s Cedar Valley: I Remember
Illustrated by: Caitlin Written by: Ashley I remember simplicity, actually no I don’t I remember…
Facing Childhood and Adolescence in Iowa’s Cedar Valley: Kindergarten
Illustrated by: Amber Written by: Shakira This is a story about when I was in…
Facing Childhood and Adolescence in Iowa’s Cedar Valley: A New School
Illustrated by: Kumari Written by: Denaya One day, I went to my new school.…
Facing Childhood and Adolescence in Iowa’s Cedar Valley: This is a Dream
Illustrated by: Haley Written by: Joshua When I was a child I used to have…
Facing Childhood and Adolescence in Iowa’s Cedar Valley: Shy
Illustrated by: Chiska Written by: Lariah I went to my school. I was shy. I…
Facing Childhood and Adolescence in Iowa’s Cedar Valley: A Terrible Day
Illustrated by: Tanner & Maria Written by: Kenyon I was in the desert and we…
Facing Childhood and Adolescence in Iowa’s Cedar Valley: Untitled
Illustrated by: Sami & Ryan Written by: Daelon Elementary school was all about trying to…
Facing Childhood and Adolescence in Iowa’s Cedar Valley: Flowers
Illustrated by: Emma Written by: Gissele One day my dad took me to the park…
Our Geographical Palette
“I am back in a place where many people are afraid to utter the words…
Who’s on Your Team?
“I fight it in schools. I fight it there because that’s where I needed it…
Always Latina
The fact that I call Greeley home does not mean that I deny my roots.…
Awake
At the end of the day, I realized there is a reason I’ve been called…
Meet Our Intern: Sarah Connolly
Sarah is thrilled to be interning at The Facing Project this summer! She was born…
Hearts and Homes
Happy PRIDE Month! June is the best time of year to discuss the challenges faced…
Zack’s Story
“We shall pass through this world but once. Any good thing therefore that I can…
Laura’s Story: Following a Dream (Eventually)
As told to: Courtney Aycock, Matt Landcaster, and Tyler Lawson Well, I was born in…
Christopher’s Story: A Lot More Out There
As told to: Tristan Wright and Corey Pryor One of my favorite memories growing up…
Abby’s Story: Proud to Be a Spartan
Some things I’m sure about; some things I’m not. I think that’s pretty typical for…
Shelby’s Story: Following a Calling
As told to: Riley Schelhaas I think, for people that want to go into the…
Elizabeth’s Story: Optimistic and Excited
As told to: Charlie Marshall and Anonymous I’m a very independent person. I always have…
Jackie’s Story: Figuring It Out
As told to: Natalie Liou For me, coming to MSU was a very last minute…
Sarah Ann’s Story: Perfectionism and Cookies
As told to: Natalie Kallemeyn I don’t really get homesick. I mean, I did get…
Trevor’s Story: Always Have Hope
When I was a kid growing up, I never thought my life would be the…
Robin’s Story: They Say
As told to: Jordan Robbins They say life is supposed to be more happy times…
Adar’s Story: Finding the Right Puzzle
As told to: Luke Shermetaro and Jared Thompke I think everyone has their own unique…
John’s Story: Ready to Explore
As told to: Jake Klok and Andrew Walker I’m a first-generation college student, and, honestly,…
Ana’s Story: In Mexico and Michigan
As told to: Hannah Alverson So, it was my birthday and I had just arrived…
Tyler’s Story: Part of the Solution
I’m a little different than most MSU students, I guess. I’m married, for one, and…
Aari’s Story: Change
As told to Diana Serrano I’m from Southfield. In Southfield, I had a great life.…
Lucy’s Story: Reaching the Dream
As told to: Dani Fournier I work a lot. I always have. I worked at…
Marie’s Story: Not Perfect Anymore
As told to: Caity Buechner Going through high school I was a 4.0 student. I…
Alisha’s Story: Becoming Who You’ll Be
As told to: Bridget Dexter What does college mean to me? Well, I think it’s…
Ami’s Story: Green, White, and Luck
As told to: Avery Allen Go right through for MSU, watch the points keep growing!…
Susie’s Story: Working to Make Michigan Great
As told to: Aaron Kovanda and Andrea Witcher So here’s the story. I didn’t know…
Mike’s Story
I have seen extreme sadness and defeat. I have also seen the most beautiful things…
Learning From Our Children:
I believe that racism or any discrimination grows because we are ignorant and we cocoon…
Irene Ernest’s Story
As told by Art Roche My mother was Marshallese and my father was Kosraean. That’s…
Mary’s Story
As told by Anna Kelley On the morning of March 1, 1954, I woke up…
Dr. A.:
“My greatest lesson learned is one of perseverance, passed down by my grandfather, and I…
Pastor Stanley Samson’s Story
As told by Sue Leibold I came from Enid, Oklahoma in summer of 2002 to…
Treasure in the River
“It’s just a reminder of the crazy little fantastical things that happen. Things like discovering…
Facing Diversity: Marshallese Stories
In 2013, I decided to go back to school and finish my college education by…
Rediscovering Community
“I finally found a place that I can call home. I have found friends, who…
Flint native’s pathway to success
The Pathways program is designed to increase the retention and graduation rates of first generation…
Where My Story Begins
A story from the Greenly community Family is everything to me, family represents home and…
Addiction
Addiction is something that everyone sees or experiences at least once in their life. Addictions…
First – An Original Spoken Word
This story originally appeared in Facing College: First-Generation Stories, a publication of The Facing Project that…
Signs
Amari’s story as told by Erin Loehr and Alyssa Reisinger I started dating this guy…
What Love is Not
Kiara’s story as told by Katrina Brown and Megan Caldwell It all started a few…
Take Me Seriously
Sarah’s story as told by Kimmi Beard and Natalie Kuss When you think of abuse,…
Even My Best Friend
Shayna’s story as told by Kimmi Beard It took me years to realize that I…
The “Love” of a Leach
Pam’s story as told by Robert Hunt and Ammity Means When I was in high…
Through the Eyes of the Past
Emma’s story as told by Madison Savage There are days when I look in the…
You’re Not Alone
Annie’s story as told by Carli Scalf …
Scars
Ellie’s story as told by Keli MacDonald & Kaytlyn Bell Things changed when I snuck…
Concerns of a Friend
Ashley’s story as told by Erin Lichtenfeld My best friend, who I’ll call Beth, is…
Dating Violence Meets Horrific End
Becky’s story as told by Molly Flodder I first saw something about it on Facebook…
She’s Not the Person She Once Was
Lisa’s story as told by Pam Fancher She won’t talk about any of this or…
Suffering in Silence
Alicia’s Story as told by Brianna Thompson I’m what you might call a second-hand victim…
“If you love me . . .”
Maria’s Story as told by Ty Batey and Lillian Marsh I didn’t know your boyfriend…
Slither
Christy’s story as told by Mandy Underwood I heard from someone that you beat the…
A Shift in Reality
Cassidy’s story as told by Anna McAtee and Erin Davenport Life seemed like an endless…
Growing Pains
Kara’s story as told by Jonel Thaller For most teenagers, prom is considered a night…
A Mother’s Story
Roberta’s story as told by Lynne Hellman You know that at age 15, 16 or…
Stepping Stones
Mary’s Story. She is 30 years old. I didn’t plan to be homeless… but then,…
Oxygen Mask
(JOSH, 20) I grew up in Detroit, a little bit outside of Redford. I have…
Two Rods, Twenty Screws
(DENESHA, 22) I grew up in Saginaw with my mom and brother. She was a…
47,000 Things
(ANONYMOUS, 19) I feel like my mission on this Earth is to help others because…
Wess’ Struggle
Watch this story as a video! The thought of college was never truly scary to…
Austen’s Story
Watch This Story as a Video! Attending MSU always seemed like a good option for…
Well Worth the Wait
As told to Becky Crooks, Student Writer My journey to Marilyn Ringstaff and the…
Gurp
Watch this story as a video! Looking back at it, this was the most humbling…
Dr. A.
As told to Zack Leonatti I was a young boy growing up in the city…
Love Over Fear
As told to Leah Casey Crunch. “Not again,” I think as I feel the toes…
Eli Asbury Underwood
As told to Corrie Smith Eli isn’t short for anything; it’s just what mom chose. …
Corrie Smith
As told to Eli Underwood How do I do this? I’m not really sure how…
Zack’s Story
As told to Albert Akyeampong I did not know the next direction in my life…
Three Days Later
As told to Dustin Rieman I was driving to Ohio Northern University. I was with…
The Team Behind the Decision: Sara’s Facing Life Beyond High School
As told to Caroline Mangan A single sheet of paper with multiple scribbles that had…
The Lucky Shot
As told to Samson Frendo As soon as I’d heard the news, I came to…
The Final Piece to My Puzzle
As told to Kara Horvath Carley and I met in middle school in an American…
Finding My Passion
As told to Sara Florian Nervous butterflies fluttered around in my stomach as I stared out…
Am I in the Right Place?
As told to Nick Schalitz As soon as the teacher’s voice began to drone through…
Now recruiting for Facing Projects in your community!
Bring The Facing Project Model to Your Community The Facing Project works with colleges, universities,…
Sam’s Story
Watch This Story as a Video! My name is Sam. I am a sophomore lacrosse…
Luis’s Story
Watch this story as a video! Being a first-generation college student isn’t very easy. Nor…
Matt’s Story
Watch This Story as a Video! Hey guys my name is Matt and I’m a…
Jacquelyn, Transfer Student
I transferred from Macomb Community College (Go, Monarchs, ha ha!), which is located in Macomb,…
Hannah’s Story
I’m Hannah Jung. Daughter. Sister. Christian. Athlete. Korean-American. Elementary Education major with a focus in…
Running from Demons
It was a Saturday night. My husband and I sat down to watch the 10…
A Home Again
It’s not uncommon to read about a house being seized because its resident is cooking…
Happiness is a Choice
Looking back on my life and where I came from, no matter how bad it…
Extinguishing the Fire
This disease of addiction wants you to remain in a state of obsession and compulsively…
Artificial Happiness
I believe in artificial happiness. That is the only thing I have known. You don’t…
Between Life and Death
On the nights when David Huston is on duty, he waits for a signal to…
Having Hope
I started using a substance ever since I was 12 years old. I started…
The Fifth Vital Sign
As told to Colton LeTourneau Since 1991, the U.S has seen a tremendous increase in…
Leading Horses to Water
I work at Meridian Health Services as a licensed clinical-addictions counselor. Most of my time…
Vivitrol offers new method to treat addiction
As told to Michelle Kaufman Meridian Health Services is the only healthcare facility in Muncie…
Life-saving drug counteracts effects of opioid overdose
As told to Chris Bavender It seems almost every day the news is filled with…
The Definition of Insanity
Tom Sloan’s story written by Elizabeth Barton I had my hand on the doorknob, about…
My Void
As told to G. Looker & S. Barker The alarm clock blared from the side…
Theatre Performances & Books
Theater Performances Our three theater performances were a huge success. We are so grateful for…
I Stopped the Cycle
Rebecca’s Story As told to Victoria Engelhardt It had been a perfect date. I…
Project Update: Opening Night! {by Nelda}
We’re creating our piles in the Service Center– tablecloths, brochures, an extra table in case…
Halfway Across the World
Sophomore, International Student from Beijing, China As I was sitting in my room watching Gossip…
Parker’s Story- Finding Myself
Watch this story as a video! Hi, my name is Parker, and I am a…
Comin’ to America
Field hockey is one of the most popular sports in Scotland. We don’t have field…
Facing College as a Visually Impaired Student- Through My Eyes
Watch this story as a video! Hey, guys. My name is Charlie. I am a…
Changes for the Better
I love that in America I have freedom and all the decisions that come with…
Ahmad’s Story
Watch This Story as a Video! Growing up as a Muslim in Dearborn, Michigan, I…
Don’t Believe in Stereotypes
Rex’s Story As told to Missy Reid A pill head is someone who is incoherent,…
Article: USU students to showcase local stories of depression through free theater performances
We appreciate reporter Clayton Gefre and the Herald Journal for their support of our project!…
Project Update March 28 {by Nelda}
Last year, when Jenni and I called The Facing Project headquarters with ideas about what…
Breaking a Mold That Shouldn’t Exist: Elizabeth’s Story
Written by Morgan McGrath. I stretch my sports bra over my head and break out…
What’s in a Name?
Konner Paxton’s story as told by Lisa Renze-Rhodes I want to use my name. I…
Child is the Father of the Man
Stuart Godfrey’s Story By Stephen Terrell In 2014, I walked in to my first board…
“Colonel Miller” on the Necessity of Unicorns
Christy Foster’s story as told to Mitch Isaacs This experience has opened up my eyes.…
Who Would Have Thought That I’d Be A Mentor?
Hannah Sullivan’s Story. She is 21. As told to Corey Ohlenkamp I will never forget…
Made In Muncie
Meranda Herbert’s story. She is 22. As told to Suzanne Clem When I hear…
Taller Than the Trees
Nathan Barnett’s story. As told to Kira Childers I took a walk in the woods…
Challenging to Improve, Supporting to Succeed
Mitch Isaacs on his mentor Jeannine Harrold Life is full of surprising relationships. I first…
The World Through the Eyes of Another
Laura Williamson’s Story. Laura is 46. As told to Monique Armstrong I can stand with…
Independent Prayers
Kelly Miller’s story As told to Casey Smith It’s always been so nice to be…
Choosing To Be There
Annette Craycraft’s story as told to Sarah Connolly When I was growing up, there was…
Nontraditional Path, Big Impact
Chrystal Pearson’s story. She is 33. As told to Chris Bavender I think I…
Choosing to be Present
Anonymous As told to Rachel Lauve If I hadn’t gone to youth group that day,…
A Club of Leaders
Tony Benford’s story. He is 29, As told to Ron Groves I was born…
A Brothership Memoir
Kelsey Timmerman’s story. He is 37. Written by Michael Brockley Potential…
My Person Who Knows
Sue Godfrey’s story. She is 42. As told to Stephanie Fisher In college my…
Investing in a Change-Maker
Blayne Umansky’s story. As told by Rachael Alaniz I moved to Muncie from Indianapolis…
Unique Monique
Monique Armstrong’s story. She is 33. As told to Kelsey Timmerman I felt like…
Hurdles
Crystal Ivy’s story as told to Jennifer Stanley My name is Crystal Ivy and…
Facing Intolerance: Avery’s Story
Awake: Pastor Avery Sledge’s Story As told by Kailey Mau How do we know who…
Facing Project on Nightly News in Flint
Mott Community College is running a Facing College project focusing on the stories of immigrant…
Hearts & Homes
Hearts & Homes Katie’s Story I’ve taken great care in constructing my home. Not the…
The World Through the Eyes of Another
Laura Williamson’s Story. Laura is 46. As told to Monique Armstrong I can stand…
Project Update Feb. 17
Our “Facing Depression in Cache Valley” project is well underway. The response from the community…
Make A Difference
Through the Facing project, many can change lives by telling their story. You may think…
Meet The New Team Members!
Our team has gained two new hardworking, dedicated volunteers! Meet Madeline and Amanda! Madeline Grosh…
All it Takes Is Just One Night
As told to Kelly Sickafoose When I was younger, everyone seemed to want to party…
Marijuana IS a Gateway Drug
As told to Kelly Sickafoose I started smoking cigarettes at age 12. At about 13…
Drugs Destroy Lives
As told to Kelly Sickafoose I had a great mom and dad, both pillars of…
Using Brings Pain and Loss
As told to Kelly Sickafoose Drugs have been part of my life since I started…
Overconsumption Can Steal Lives
As told to Isabella Bailey My dear niece and nephews: I remember the car. The…
Alcohol, Prescription Drugs, and Marijuana: They ARE a Big Deal
As told to Kelly Sickafoose Many people don’t see drinking, using prescription drugs, or marijuana…
The Day That She Left Me
An anonymous story She left me on a cold winter day. Christmas decorations still lined…
With Drug Use on the Rise, No One’s Safe
As told to Kelly Sickafoose Early one morning in 2013, I was sleeping soundly in…
Life of an ER Doctor
As told to Abbey Jauregui As an emergency room doctor, it is hard to explain…
Drugs Ruin Families
As told to Kelly Sickafoose Before the problems started with my dad, our family was…
Drugs Hurt Those Who Are Left Behind
Det. Lt. Leonard Corral Jr.’s story, as told to Alexis Bloom The group of people…
Drug Abuse Destroys Families
As told to Kelly Sickafoose Together we had four children. Justin held a good position…
Both of Me
As told to Tim Ehlerding I’m lucky to be here, that is both of me…
A Look Through Their Eyes
Just because someone is from another country doesn’t mean they need to earn our respect…
Acknowledgments
To begin with, I would like to thank Professors Devin Bryson and Emily Adams, who…
Scene 11: The American Dream
(Projection of the DRC and US flags.) NARRATOR: America. Land of the free, home of…
Scene 10: The American Workplace Revisited
CEPHAS: There are two reasons people come to the US—for security and a better economy.…
Scene 9: Politics
RACHEL: I like the American Government. I like it because they give the candidates the…
Scene 8: Working in the Shadows
(NARRATOR begins and the cyc should light up with an ominous red color. The WORKERS…
Scene 7: Marriage
JEFFREY: In Africa how the family is is very different. Here what your family is…
Scene 6: Traffic
ANIMA: In the US you leave cars unlocked and no one touches them—and everyone has…
Scene 5: Cultural Differences
YUHUA: Are Americans different than you thought they would be? HATEEYAT: It’s always different from…
Scene 4: The Things They Carried
SCENE 4: THE THINGS THEY CARRIED AKUA: What did I bring with me to the…
Scene 3: Language Barriers
(Airplane/airport noise. MCABRAHAM enters, in America for the rst time, and speaks to the audience.)…
Scene 2: Jobs in the DRC
NARRATOR: Life is precarious in a number of ways in the Congo. About 2/3 of…
Scene 1: Conversations Across Campus
SCENE 1: CONVERSATIONS ACROSS CAMPUS (Three pairs of students appear.) MASON: What are you doing…
Introduction by Nancy Taylor-Porter — Congolese Immigrant Stories: A Facing Project
I have long been interested in theatre as a means for social justice. A couple…
FOREWORD FROM PAUL FREEDMAN
I’m not an expert on the Democratic Republic of the Congo, but I have spent…
A Lost Sister
As told to Hannah Dull When I see how relatively healthy people choose to abuse…
Through it All
Below is Lonna’s Poem. This story was first seen in the Facing Racism project a…
Mike’s Story
Mike Henry’s Story /// I have seen extreme sadness and defeat. I have also seen…
Behind the Face of Criminal Justice in the Chippewa Valley
Stacey Acuña’s Story ///My life started out like many others in Wisconsin. I grew up…
The Story of a Jail Program Coordinator
Nathan’s Story /// My name is Nathan and I work with some of the most…
You Can Only Go So Far with Optimism
You Can Only Go So Far with Optimism /// Second chances are hard to come…
‘Our’ Issue
‘Our’ Issue /// You know, growing up, my personality was always that of a helper.…
No Second Chances: Life with a Permanent Record
Kelly’s Story /// I was seventeen the first time I got arrested. For years after…
Breaking Cycles
A story of breaking cycles. /// My parents were teenagers when they had me. My…
The Life of Tom
Sheila’s Story: Mental Health and Veteran Court Coordinator /// Tom has been sent to jail multiple…
Ken’s Story
Ken’s Story /// My name is Ken Adler. I represent one of the many faces…
Reuben’s Story
Reuben’s Story /// Alcohol was always around me. I knew it’s effects and the way…
BOOK LAUNCH
Hello Everyone! We are so happy to announce that the books are finally published and…
Infographics
Students at the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire in the Honors course Health, Science, and Power created…
Facing Racism Event at Muncie Civic Theatre-Jay Zimmerman’s Opening Remarks
Good evening. I am Jay Zimmerman, Coordinator of Facing Racism, just two of many hands…
Download our ebook!
Download our ebook featuring 39 stories of Facing Racism in Muncie. Facing Racism ebook (hi-res)…
Another Kind of Racism: A Graphic Novel
Bios As a third grader, Matt Bailey attended school on a New Mexico Navajo reservation…
Learning From Our Children
Shalia Gupta’s story written by Clarissa Bowers Shalia is 80 years old When I was…
It Shouldn’t Matter
WaTasha Barnes Griffin story written by Seth Carrier-Ladd Tasha is 41 years old “Madeline, what…
The Anger is Mine
Richard McKinney’s story written By Tom Steiner. Richard is 48 years old. I didn’t start…
Sunrise, Sundown
Daniel Stallings story written by Jackson Eflin Daniel is 49 years old Heavy fog was…
When the Unrest Came to Middletown
Daniel’s story written by Melinda Messineo. Daniel is a pseudonym and he is 73 years…
What’s on the Menu?
Deanna’s story written by WaTasha Griffin. Deanna is a pseudonym and is in 7th grade.…
I Was Mad, Real Mad
Rashid Shabazz’s story written by River Lin Rashid is 73 years old Mad. Real mad.…
The New Racism
Mia Johnson’s story written by Andrea Wolfe Mia is 36 years old About a year…
Ok I’ll do it
June Payne’s story written by Travis O. Graves. June is 65 years old. There were…
Living in My Neighborhood
Lynn’s story written by Chris Bavender. Lynn is a pseudonym and is 29 years old.…
Hospitality
Mina Samaan’s story as told Josh Holowell Mina is 28 years old Everything was quiet.…
Time Warp
Vivian Morrison’s story written by Sherri Beaty Vivian is 60 years old I’m black, so…
Sink or Swim; in Code
Ruby Cain’s story written by Aimee Robertson-Fant Ruby is 64 years old I didn’t know…
I Prefer to Be Called Muriel
Muriel Weeden’s story written by Levi Todd Muriel is 75 years old I grew up…
A Long Road Travelled
Charles Payne’s story written Steve Knote Charles is 74 years old Education is the key…
The Need to Belong: The Life of a Muslim in America
Heather Gilvary-Hamad’s story written Angela Jackson-Brown Heather is 46 years old There are certain topics,…
Who’s on Your Team?
Renae Mayes’s story written by Taylor Wicker Renae is 30 years old I played basketball…
Good
Tonikia Steans’s story written by Anna Groover Tonikia is 41 years old I was born…
I See Things More Clearly Now
Fred Long’s story, written by Beth Messner Fred is 55 years old My family moved…
Father wants justice after son arrested
Miles and His Father’s story written by Christine Rhine Miles is a pseudonym and Miles…
A Cultural Racial Identity Struggle
Karen Dowling’s story written by Annemarie Voss Karen is 41 years old I was born…
Enemies Out of Allies
An Anonymous Story written by Ari Hurwitz I would say some things are better in…
Uprooting Racism
Jason Donati’s story written by Josh Holowell. Jason is 36 years old. “What did you…
“We’re all messed up, but we all came out of somewhere, you know?”
D.P.’s story written by Deborah Mix D.P. is a pseudonym and he is 23 years…
The human right to be seen, the responsibility to see
Yvonne Thompson’s story written by Kelsey Timmerman Yvonne is 58 years old I had a…
A Person without a Story, A Person without a Name
Christine Satory’s Story by Michael Brockley58 years old Call me NoName Changeling. I was born…
Cutting Up. Getting Along. Working Together.
Tom Carey’s story written by J.R. JamisonTom is 75 years old What you want? You…
Fighting Racism with Love
Mary Dollison’s story, written by Lauren Bishop-WeidnerMary is almost 74 years old Although I was…
The Question Mark
Maria Williams-Hawking’s story written by Lizz Alezetes.Maria is 63 years old. Question marks fill the…
A Battle to Fight
Ella McNeary’s story written by Lenore AllenElla is 72 years old I came to Muncie…
You Don’t Know What God Look Like, So How You Gonna Be Racist?
Legend’s story written by Stephanie Winn Legend is a pseudonym and she is 36 years…
On Not Feeling Safe
An Anonymous story written by Resa Matlock Storyteller is 44 It was our destiny. I…
Facing Racism with Help
Sam Abram’s story written by Lauren Bishop-Weidner Sam is 78 years old My father, Lonnie…
In the Punch Line
Jayla Scaife’s story written by Travis Graves Jayla is 18 years old They always make…
The Dreams of the Hopeful Youth
Emily’s Story, Written by Maggie West Emily is 12 My parents taught me that I should never judge people. Everyone is equal and everyone is a person. My dad is the reason why I have a strong interest in these issues. He is a student and is studying Social Work. I love to go with him to talks and meetings about dealing with race and religion issues. It teaches me how to be open-minded and I feel that it makes a good impact on me. It all started before I was born. My aunt told my mom that she was ruining my life. I am mixed. I’m Mexican and American. My aunt believed that I wouldn’t be accepted by my Mexican or…
Transcending Racism with Culture and Pride
Michael Timothy Duerson’s Story, written by Dr. Ruby Cain Michael is 58 years old. The…
Lonna’s Poem
Lonna Jordan’s story written by Michael Brockley. Lonna is 53 years old. Do You Hear…
Facing the Fight: Systemic Racism in Muncie
Cornelius Dollison’s story written by Lauren Bishop-Weidner. Cornelius is 74 years old. My parents came…
Awake
Avery’s Story How do we know who we are? It’s that big mystery in life;…
The Taming of Chaos (Article included)
The Facing Project: Facing Depression in Cache Valley is officially up and running. Our whole…
Celebrating Five Years and 100 Communities
Mark your calendars: The Facing Project’s five-year celebration is November 20th! Learn more about the…
Our Geographical Palette
Our Geographical Palette Rick’s Story Most of the time I don’t feel like a Springfielder.…
Culture Fest
Thank you to everyone who came out to support Culture Fest and who stopped by…
Illinois Campuses Will Tell Stories of Those Facing Incarceration, Being Neighbors, Stereotypes, and More
In late spring we announced our partnership with 14 state Campus Compacts that will bring…
An Exercise in Compassion
Hey Everyone, Check out our article on Wittenberg University’s website. We are so excited to…
Kentucky Campuses Will Tell Stories of Veterans and Those in Rural Communities
In late spring we announced our partnership with 14 state Campus Compacts that will bring…
Iowa Campuses Will Tell The Stories of Marshallese Immigrants, Waterloo Youth, and Free Speech on College Campuses
In late spring we announced our partnership with 14 state Campus Compacts that will bring…
Utah Campuses Will Connect People Through Stories
In late spring we announced our partnership with 14 state Campus Compacts that will bring…
LGBT Discrimination in Springfield
Recently the Springfield Human Relations Board presented a report to the City Commissioners about LGBT…
Interfaith Walk of Peace
On Saturday June 25th Miami Valley Islamic association organized a peace walk in remembrance of…
Missouri Campuses to Tell Stories of Those Facing Immigration Status, Race Relations, Disabilities, and More
A few weeks back we announced our partnership with 14 state Campus Compacts that will…
California Campuses Will Tell Stories of Community Activism and Life on Minimum Wage
A few weeks back we announced our partnership with 14 state Campus Compacts that will…
Facing Addiction in Our Community
At Drug Free Adams County, we were intrigued by the idea of putting a face…
North Carolina Campuses to Tell Stories of Immigration, Affordable Housing, Health Disparities, and More
A few weeks ago we announced our partnership with 14 state Campus Compacts that will…
Ohio Campuses to Tell Stories of Those Facing Life After High School & Legal Protections in the LGBTQ Community
A few weeks ago we announced our partnership with 14 state Campus Compacts that will…
Campus & Community: Six Ways to Lead a Facing Project
So you are reading this and you are interested in running or being a part…
First-Year Experience Programs Join The Facing Project
We are excited to announce that four colleges/universities new to The Facing Project will embed…
IN Campuses to Tell Stories of Homelessness, Incarceration, RFRA, and More
A few weeks ago we announced our partnership with 14 state Campus Compacts that will…
Facing Project T-shirts Help Tell a Story
You know that feeling you get when you put on your favorite shirt? You suddenly…
New Partnership Gives The Facing Project To More Communities
By this fall, The Facing Project will spread to 70 new communities across the US…
Event Program for Facing Cancer
This is the event program for Facing Cancer in East Central Indiana. The event at…
Story Preview: Dr. Michael Williamson
SAMSUNG CAMERA PICTURES The following is a preview from Dr. Michael Williamson’s story written by…
Story Preview: Deb Kirkman
The following is part of a story written by Rose Skelly about Deb Kirkman. —…
My wife’s story moved a stranger to tears
She didn’t know the story was mine. That the boy in the story with autism…
Little Red Door Provides Services in ECI
The mission of Cancer Services of East Central Indiana – Little Red Door is to…
Joey Feek Passes Away
Joey Feek, half of the country duo, Joey+Rory, passed away on Friday, March 4. On Tuesday,…
Ingelhart Scholar Profile: Kaylie McKee
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=13urwPAcrUM&feature=youtu.be
Ingelhart Scholar Profile: Nicole Dowd
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l7LIN8nZ8t4&feature=youtu.be
Apple Watches Help Cancer Patients
Cancer patients in Camden, New Jersey have taken part in a new study with Apple…
John Grisham releases new free book about cancer
John Grisham, the acclaimed fiction author famous for The Firm and The Rogue Lawyer. According to The Washington Post,”The…
Ingelhart Scholars Profile: Patrick Calvert
Patrick Calvert, a Video Team member for the Ingelhart Scholars has worked closely with other…
Ingelhart Scholars Profile: Lauren Hansen
Lauren Hansen, a broadcast journalism major from Amo, IN has lead the student writers in…
Mom, Can Santa Bring a Bicycle, a Gameboy…Someone to Love
It’s best not to believe in Christmas when the safety net has vanished. — By…
A Lesson in Gratitude
Being 79 years old and a retired nurse, I have seen hardships over the years…
Hope Pulls Me Forward
Since I am a seventh generation Yorktown person, I know most of the folks in…
Nuances of Poverty
Not living in poverty ourselves, we don’t always recognize the sort of difficulties that can…
The Color of Muncie
I was born in Muncie in 1945 and grew up in the Whitely neighborhood. I…
Inextinguishable, Wholly
“There are 10 of us moving across the country. We have a choice to make.…
A Thousand Pieces
I was brought up in an upper middle class family where everyone knew of my…
Breaking the Cycle of Poverty
It was 31 years ago, the summer after we moved to the country. When I’d…
My New House . . . My New Life
My new house will be 1200 square feet and one story tall. It will have…
It’s Not Your Fault
The basement looked like an ice rink. Kids might have wanted to play on it…
Hope is a luxury
Hope is a luxury, not given into easily–Such a frightening thing Hope is. Reaching out…
Carry: Sandy Penrod’s Story
Written by Jennifer Stanley WALK I learned to walk when I was two. Until then,…
Finding Robert: Robert Cupp’s Story as told by Hillcroft staff member Trisha Linton
Written by Sara Renee Robert has been living and working with Trisha and the staff…
The Gift: Josh Scamihorn’s Story
Written by Ted Baker When I was born thirty-seven years ago, the hospital told my…
Thirty More Jerrys: Jerry Lewis’s Story as told by Jerry and his co-workers, Tammi Dokes and Jenn
Written by Suzanne Clem Three days a week for 2-3 hours a day, 15-year Olive…
Bobby Tells the Story of His Smile: Bobby Taylor’s Story
Written by Michael Brockley My Hillcroft workshop coaches brag about my smile. Say I’m famous…
One of My Girls: Rachel Nye’s Story as told by Hillcroft staff member Kim Johnson
Written by Chris Bavender I’m the site manager for the house—three girls live there—including Rachel.…
Who is Rocky Balboa?: Robert “Robbie” Gerard’s Story
Written by Aimee Robertson-Fant The morning sun streams in through the Walgreens window over the…
I am Ray Curtis: Written by Tom Steiner
I am Ray Curtis. I am the friendliest guy you will ever meet. Not…
Favorite Things: Albert Curtis’s Story
Written by Kristine Steiner I have a few favorite things, but I really like working…
When I Get My Balance Back: Phil Zearbaugh’s Story
Written by Leah Chandler He used to hit me when I’d misbehave or have a…
Chasing the Sunset: Shannon Brown’s Story
Written by Jamie Reese I cannot stand to be misunderstood. The only thing I hate…
The Unforgettable Now: Jerrold Thomas’s Story
You can call me sexy. That’s what I told Miranda the first time she met…
A Mother’s Journey: David Knight’s Story as told by his mother, Jeanette Geisler
Written by Cheryl Williamson When children are little, you don’t notice that milestones aren’t being…
Stopping to Forgive: Greg Zgunda’s Story as told by his mother, Beverly Zgunda
Written by Stephanie Fisher If I told you, “Take it one day at a time,”…
Mystery of the Muncie Scarf Leads to Coos Bay, Oregon
Facing Project board member Stephanie Fisher was walking past Muncie Central High School and saw…
Facing Cancer Profiles: Dr. Williamson
Dr. Williamson explains why he thinks cancer organizations like Little Red Door are important to…
Happy Birthday, Mr. Timmerman.
Before there was The Facing Project. Before there was the WHERE AM I? books. Before…
Muncie Mayor is Cancer Free
Muncie’s Mayor, Dennis Tyler spent the month of January 2016 fighting malignant melanoma found on…
Obama announces new initiative to cure cancer
President Obama announced at his final State of the Union address on Tuesday, January 12…
Joey Feek Inspires Hope at the Darkest of Times
By: Eddie Metzger From Rory’s blog post on December 13, 2015. Joey Feek, a native…
Facing Cancer in East Central Indiana
Facing Cancer in East Central Indiana, a part of The Facing Project, is a print…
More Than an Oral History: Where We’ve Been and What’s in Store for 2016
When we start to explain what The Facing Project is as an organization, we can’t…
Featured Story: The Man in the Last Pew
—with the same name as mine As told to writer Curtis L. Crisler for Facing…
New Year, New Phase
You may have seen the news last week during Giving Tuesday, but we’re delighted to…
Giving Tuesday: Be a part of The Facing Project Story!
After three years as an organization, we’re excited to announce The Facing Project has officially…
Featured Story: The Story of a Gardener
This week’s Featured Story comes from Facing Hunger in Manhattan, Kansas, where Leadership Studies students…
Does Humans of New York Exploit Humans
Like most humans of the internet we are fans of Humans of New York (HONY).…
10 Ways to Show Your Gratitude, Beyond Giving Thanks
We’ve all seen the posts on Social Media for 30 Days of Giving Thanks because…
Creating Understanding Across Difference Starts with Owning Our Stories
I stared into a sea of nuns in traditional black-and-white habits. Peppered in between were…
Tour our new HQ on Periscope!
Kelsey leads a tour of our new co-working space and talks a bit about Muncie’s…
An ever-expanding circle of compassion
“We imagine . . . this circle of compassion. Then we imagine ourselves close to…
Exceptions and Expectations
Daisy Alaniz’s story as told by her mom, Rachael Alaniz Written by Clarissa Bowers ///…
The Facing Project Expands to K-12 Partners
Over the past two years, The Facing Project model has been used by nonprofits, higher…
Featured Story: Mine
This week’s featured story comes from Muncie, Indiana, where Interlock used The Facing Project model…
Featured Story: Building Character
This week’s featured story comes from McPherson, Kansas, where Circles of McPherson County used The…
A Year After Ferguson: Can Stories Save Us?
This weekend marks the one-year anniversary of Michael Brown’s death in Ferguson, Missouri. Some days…
Featured Story: Multilingual
The story of Emily Taing As written by Rebecca Stark From FACING ACCESS TO HIGHER…
Facing Stories: BuzzFeed and Elle Writer Ashley Ford Discusses All Things Writing, Relationships, and Finding Your Voice
Ashely Ford is making waves in the literary world with her personal essays that tackle…
Creating together: A Confession of a reluctant collaborator
Kelsey (left) with J.R. (right) and the amazing organizers of Washington & Lee’s Facing…
2,000 People, Hundreds of Stories, & Many Ways to Get Involved
This month brings on the heat, BBQs, 4th of July celebrations, and . . .…
Why I Believe in Community-Based Learning: My Week with Students in Costa Rica
A dark roll of rain clouds perched below a hazy sky, prepared to swoop down…
Facing Stories: Ari Hurwitz & the 6th Grade Crew on “the Other” and Learning Empathy
When I was a 6th grader in Cowan, Indiana, I had spiked hair, wore fluorescent…
Featured Story: Breaking a Mold that Shouldn’t Exist–Elizabeth’s Story
Facing Perfectionism. Those two words together may have caused you to roll your eyes or…
Don’t Wait
Please don’t wait until it get worse. Watch the video and reach out!
Featured Story: What’s in a Name?
I’m a dude named Kelsey. Marketers have encouraged me to attend an all women’s college,…
What’s in a Name?
Konner Paxton’s story as told by Lisa Renze-Rhodes I want to use my name. I…
Missing My Sister
Jennifer’s story written by Christine Rhine God, just let me die, I whispered. Everybody will be…
Taking Flight
Meredith’s story / 19 years old / written by Megan Haynes I have faded scars.…
Breaking a Mold That Shouldn’t Exist: Elizabeth’s Story
Written by Morgan McGrath I stretch my sports bra over my head and break out…
From a Peasant to a Prince: Anmar’s Story
Written by Jordan Siskind-Weiss If I mess up here, I’m letting my many selves down;…
The Perfect Façade
An anonymous story Every week, I meet with a small circle of fellow students. We…
“It Takes Some Cold to Know the Sun”
An anonymous story Roughly 40 million Americans, eighteen and older, are affected by anxiety disorders.…
An Unspoken Issue
An anonymous story Little did I know that, in joining a campus sprawling with individuals…
Lucky
An anonymous story, written by Summer Abiad Sometimes, I just have a great day. Most…
An Efficient Obsession
An Anonymous Story, written by Rosie Major Efficiency really drives me. It is essentially perfectionism…
Facing the Environment? Win a project!
I recently had a discussion with a friend who works with a land conservatory nonprofit.…
Spring Has Arrived: Does Depression Decrease?
Spring in Indiana is in full swing. Flowers are just beginning to bloom and now…
Lifestyle Habits Can Help Prevent Depression
Signs of depression should always be taken very seriously, and seeking professional medical help is…
What can you do on-campus to raise awareness?
While Facing Depression focuses on both the Muncie community as well as Ball State’s campus,…
Choosing When to Tell Your Story
Depression is different for everyone. The seriousness, longevity and treatment varies by the individual, and…
WISH-TV Covers The Facing Project
When stars align magic happens, and we like magic. Not necessarily the fire throwing, dragon-laden,…
Seeing the Signs
He or she wouldn’t do this unless he or she loves me. It it all…
Put on Your Teal!
Spread awareness by wearing teal this month. Help teens by talking about consent, and no…
Kiki Martire ’15 on Working With the Administration to Improve Bystander Programs
Before I started my senior year, I read in a summer newsletter for Washington and…
Facing Sexual Violence: Washington & Lee Students Take a Stand
Sexual assault is not an easy topic to discuss, and stats back that up. Overall,…
Speak Up
Watch the video below and hear these teens speak up against dating violence
April Fools!
Teen Dating Violence is not a joke. It’s not funny. Help stop the violence. Spread…
Featured Story: A Timeless Classic
This week’s Featured Story is, A Timeless Classic: Jeff Ross’s Story as told by his…
A Timeless Classic
Jeff Ross’s Story as told by his mother, Ann Marie Ross Written by J.R. Jamison…
C.U.R.E
Check out this public service message!
You are an Advocate
Sharing your knowledge through your own personal story, or through someone you know who has…
The who, what, where, how, and why of the Facing Project
The Facing Project connects people through stories to strengthen communities. We provide tools, a platform,…
Parents and Teen Dating
As a parent you want to protect your child. Keeping an open conversation and giving…
Facing Stories: Award-Winning Artist & Humanitarian, Yewande Austin
From BET to MTV to sharing the stage with the Black Eyed Peas, Yewande Austin…
One Love
Check out One Love Foundation (https://www.joinonelove.org/) that was created in honor of Yeardley Love, who…
Questioning How Sexual Violence Occurs – Elena Diller ’17
I’m involved in the Facing Project because our culture has an expectation for how sexual…
That’s Not Cool
Where do you draw the line when it comes to phone calls, texting, emails, social…
Did you know?
* 1.5 million high school students experience physical abuse from a dating partner a year.…
Annie Persons ’15 on Why Facing Rockbridge is Important
I am involved in the Facing Project because the issue of sexual violence is one…
What is Facing Rockbridge?
By Kamryn McPike While a Rolling Stone article is making sexual assault on college campuses…
Robby General explains why The Facing Project is different…
Robby General, a student writer for Facing Depression, distinguishes this endeavor from other journalistic pursuits.…
Featured Story: I’m a Fool for Christ — In Memory of Facing Project Writer Sarah Hendrix
On February 11, 2015, Union College professor and Facing Project writer Sarah Hendrix was tragically…
I’m a Fool for Christ
Neil’s Story As told to writer Sarah Hendrix /// You’ve heard of a 12-step program,…
Facing Depression in Your Career
Needless to say, some jobs are more difficult than others. Whether you’re dealing with difficult…
“There isn’t always a quick fix.”
Professionals in the medical field are continuously pursuing the various causes of depression. Losing a…
Teen dating violence a nightmare
Have you ever noticed that the typical scary movie starts with happy scenes of teenagers…
A Personal Connection
Throughout my life, I’ve had relatively little exposure to people who have struggled with depression.…
Sophie Gordon shares an alarming statistic re: depression
Sophie Gordon, a student writer for Facing Depression, discusses a February 2015 story in The…
Nathan DeYoung’s take on The Facing Project
Nathan DeYoung, a student writer for Facing Depression, offers his thoughts about the project, which…
Lizzy Caldwell ’16 on the hate that sometimes accompanies gender issues
The other day, I crumpled to the floor sobbing because I was a woman. Before…
Depression & Robin Williams’ Death
This past summer, actor Robin Williams committed suicide. He was a TV and movie icon,…
The Gender Gap: 3 Reasons Why Depression is Twice as High in Women
Women with depression face the stigma of having a legitimate mood disorder passed off as…
An Anonymous Account of One’s Struggle with Depression
The call of nothing and silence scratched at the back of my mind, slowly turning…
Featured Story: Finding Home
It’s easy to dismiss a person if you don’t know their story. I’ve done it…
New Beginnings
I was born in Windsor, England, a stone’s throw away from the Windsor Castel. Though…
Breaking the Cycle
I grew up in McPherson and graduated from MHS. My parents weren’t really well-off financially,…
Facing Stories: Victoria Engelhardt Inspires Students to Live Their Best Story
At the beginning of January, we started a live video chat series called “Facing Stories.”…
3 Reasons the Facing Rockbridge MATTERS
3 Reasons Facing Rockbridge MATTERS by Laura Waggener ’17 1. Now is the Time to…
7 Things Not to Say to Someone Who is Facing Depression
Depression. It’s a difficult topic to think about, let alone to discuss with someone you…
What is an Honor Advocate at Washington & Lee?
My name is Joshua Gross and I am currently a junior here at W&L. I…
Facing Stories: Kira Childers Tells Stories with her Camera
We’re embarking on a new adventure–live video chats via Google Hangout. We’re calling the series…
Looking Ahead to 2015
Last week we shared our 2014 Year in Review and payed homage to our hometown…
2014 Year in Review
Since The Facing Project is headquartered in Muncie, Indiana—which happens to be the home of…
Featured Story: The Serenity Prayer Helps Me
The word drug addict stirs up images of individuals who have hit rock bottom, people…
Dreams
At 52-years-old, I recently graduated from the Circle Leader Training and became a Circle Leader.…
Kind People
No matter what anyone says, I always did the best that I could. I’m not…
Learning to Trust
My mom left my dad when I was two. I was little but still recall…
Building Character
Why the heck did God let all these horrible things happen to me? I’ve always…
What I Know About Me
Back when I was a year and a half, my older brother and a couple…
No Negative Energy
When I was 16, I walked to school every day with my sister and our…
To Begin Again
This story of how I ended up living in poverty in McPherson, Kansas. This is…
Butterflies
A Poem by Kristie Huhn We are like butterflies, caught in the hands of life.…
Finding Home
I lay on the floor of my silent mobile home praying to God that there…
My Tribe
When I got sick, everything went to hell. I have Graves’ disease. It is an…
The Serenity Prayer Helps Me
Denise’s Story As told to Mary Jenkins /// My mother was addicted to Valium. She…
Encounter with child prostitutes leaves activist speechless
Community activist Marshall Rancifer won’t be silenced. Yet as he tells the story of an…
Featured Story: A Mother’s Journey to Letting Go
We’re up to over 400 Facing Stories! So choosing a featured story is getting easier…
Featured Story of the Week: Finding Life After Death
A few weeks ago, I lost one of my best friends from college to a…
Featured Story of the Week from Facing Hunger & Reflections on a Black Friday Fast
On Black Friday I fasted for the first time. After years of consuming the chewy…
We believe there should be safety in love
According to the CDC, Approximately 1 in 10 teenagers have experienced physical and/or sexual violence…
A journey of a thousand miles has led us to many communities, and now the path leads us to Ferguson, Missouri
Chinese philosopher Lao Tzu said, “A Journey of a thousand miles begins with a single…
Building Character: Featured Story from McPherson’s Facing Poverty
Poverty is the first thing the Facing Project faced. And for me personally, it was…
Featured Story of the Week: The Hamburger Guy
Facing Project stories capture the connection between humans in a way that is a snippet…
Featured Story of the Week: PIMP
I’m often asked what my favorite Facing Project has been to date. That’s a really…
The Magic of the Facing Project
Jerrold and I at the Facing Disabilities event. /// “You can call me sexy.” That’s…
Featured Story of the Week: The Story of a Librarian
We’re told good stories have resolutions, but sometimes they don’t. Occasionally, stories share a flash…
Answers: Daisy Alaniz’s Story
Daisy’s story was written by her mother Rachael Alaniz, who also participate in Hillcroft’s project…
When Mental Fortitude Surmounts Fragility
To hear more stories like Jim’s, be sure to check out the Hillcroft’s Facing Disabilities Project Event on…
A Mother’s Journey to Letting Go
Joyce Cline’s story about her son Jason To hear more stories like Jason’s, be sure to…
The Unforgettable Now: Jerrold Thomas’s Story
To hear more stories like Jerrold’s, be sure to check out the Hillcroft’s Facing Disabilities Project Event on…
Stories Unite People from Different Sides of the Aisle: Our Meeting with US Senator Mitch McConnell
Ten feet from the fifth most powerful man in the country. As I awaited his…
Featured Story of the Week: Don’t Believe in Stereotypes
A pharmacist has changed how she operates behind the counter. A teen broke the cycle…
Don’t Believe in Stereotypes
Rex’s Story As told to Missy Reid /// A pill head is someone who is…
Facing Suicides in Ireland Part 2
In 2010 I traveled to Ireland to research suicides. The gap between the loveliness of…
Facing Suicide Part 1
In 2010 I traveled to Ireland to research suicides. The gap between the loveliness of…
Featured Story of the Week: Abuse is No Secret – Susan’s Story
“I’m lucky enough to say that my personal life hasn’t been directly affected by drug…
Abuse is No Secret
Susan’s Story As told to Sarah Wilder /// Pharmacy school prepares you for a lot…
Featured Story of the Week: The Long Road Home
Imagine standing in a courtroom and being sentenced to 40 years in prison. Hear your…
Featured Story of the Week: “Dear Mom and Dad”
Lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) youth account for the largest percentage of homeless teens…
National Attention Reminds Us that Stories Build Community
In the past week The Facing Project has been featured by The Huffington Post, Soul…
Featured Story of the Week: “Drive: Marie’s Story”
When Kelsey and I brought The Facing Project back to our hometown of Muncie, Indiana,…
Featured Story of the Week: “In America I Trust.”
As 52,000 children wait in detention at the US-Mexico border, I can’t help but think…
Featured Story of the Week: Amilcar’s Story
In 2005, I traveled to Honduras because my T-shirt was made there. Silly reason, I…
Featured Story of the Week: “I Stopped the Cycle: Tracy’s Story”
Addiction. It knows no boundaries. It does not discriminate. It will eventually kill—if not your…
I Stopped the Cycle
Rebecca’s Story As told to Victoria Engelhardt /// It had been a perfect date. I…
“I don’t have the time to get involved.” We don’t buy it.
You want to know what stops me in my tracks? Hearing someone say, “I don’t…
Featured Story of the Week: Our first look at Facing Hunger
In the last section of my book Where Am I Eating? I wrote about fasting…
Now recruiting writers to tell the stories of those Facing Disabilities
We need Writers! We’re looking for 20 writers in East Central Indiana to tell the…
Featured Story of the Week: “Daddy’s Little Girl: Kasey’s Story”
Taking a story someone has lived and translating it into a story you write—as if…
Live Your Legacy
We recently had the opportunity to travel to Rome, Georgia, to speak at the Bonner…
Those who shed those other tears
When I tell people about the Facing Project, they often say, “Oh, it’s like an…
This Week’s Featured Poem: Jolie Marie’s Story
Folks who write poetry well amaze me. A few years back I tried to write…
Jolie Marie’s Story
as told to and written by poet Jeffrey Own Pearson 19 The age my life…
Featured Story of the Week: Ready, Willing, & Stable
Rome, Georgia, was the second city to sign on with The Facing Project back in…
Featured Story of the Week: Love is Greater Than Anger
It’s easy to judge a mother who is an addict. Debbie’s Story from“Facing Addiction in…
Love is Greater Than Anger
Debbie’s Storyas told to Melinda Hornback No one wakes up and says, “Today I think…
Featured Story of the Week: Souls for Sale
On March 6th I participated in the book release and theatrical monologue event for “Facing…
If you could see into another’s world and hear their story, would you listen?
If you could see into another’s world and hear their story, would you listen? This…
Featured Story of the Week: Healing is Believing
This week’s featured story from Facing Autism is truly touching. Angela’s story began with an…
Featured Story of the Week: A Hand Up
With a “suitcase full of hopes and dreams,” this story reflects the financial hardships faced…
Featured story of the week: All I Can Give
Haley’s story from Facing Autism is the featured story this week. Haley reminds us all…
Daddy’s Little Girl
As told to Yewande Austin /// Pretty girl is what they always call me. A…
A Matter of Trust
As told to Desmonique and Ravane and performed by Little Debbie Youth from Playmaking for…
Souls for Sale
As told to Soul Scribe the Poet /// When do little girls learn about the…
Remain Me | Rose’s Story
As told to Chaquis Maliq My song “Remain Me” speaks about my mind and its…
PIMP
As told to Alphonso “A’Qen-Aten” Jackson /// P . . . I . . .…
Dear Mom and Dad
As told to Jeff Perri Dear Mom and Dad: There were two defining moments from…
What I Didn’t Know – An Open Letter About My Experience
By Audrey Galex I don’t even know why I went to the screening of a…
Sharing Stories
I’ve been working with the Facing Project for 4 months now. In those few months,…
Featured Story of the Week: I’m Empowered
A pharmacist has changed how she operates behind the counter. A teen broke the cycle…
I’m Empowered
Edward’s Story As told to Missy Reid /// I signed a Division I football scholarship…
Featured story of the week: Pay Attention
We shared yesterday how important Carter’s story was to the Facing Autism project. For this…
An inside look at autism: Carter’s white box of thoughts & feelings
The Facing Project is a community storytelling project that connects people through stories to strengthen…
Feature Story of the Week: We Are All the Same
Amber’s story is a tale of hardship and challenges. As she grows up in a…
Featured Story of the Week: This is my Son
This week’s story comes from Facing Autism in Muncie, Indiana. Belinda is a mother, wife,…
Writers: Join a Nationwide Storytelling Project
The Facing Project connects people through stories to strengthen communities — AND WE WANT YOU…
Featured Story of the Week: “An Unfairy Tale”
This is a powerful story because of the emotional and physical pain the storyteller goes…
Featured Story: “Southern Hospitality and Love,” from Facing HOPE in Rome, Georgia
This week’s featured story comes from Facing HOPE in Rome Georgia. Told to writer Abbi…
Want to be in a video?
Calling…well everyone! We are making a promotion video for the facing project and we…
Do Something
As told to meeK –The Pedophile, the Pimp and the Sex Slave– There is…
Ending Atlanta’s Traffic Problem begins with Breaking the Silence
We must break the silence on Child Sex Trafficking I was surprised when Atlanta artist…
Featured story of the week: Being the Key
This week’s featured story, Being the Key, comes from Facing Autism in Muncie, Indiana. When Lisa…
Facing Projects on College Campuses
J.R. and I are on our way to the IMPACT conference where will be the…
Featured Story of the Week: Stepping Stones
Mary’s Story. She is 30 years old. Mary’s story is great. Mary found herself pregnant…
Featured Story of the Week: Tackle
Chad’s story is one of growth. When he first learned that his son, Jackson, was…
Blue Dragon Avatar
Brian’s Poem. /// In the fourth grade, I asked my mom why I had a…
Finding My True Calling
Diane’s story. She is 55. /// Most of my life I knew I wanted to…
Being the Key
Lisa’s story. She is 48. Watch the reading of Lisa’s story from the Facing Autism…
Changing Normal
Kim’s Story. She is 41. /// I didn’t learn that my daughter, who is now…
All I Can Give
Haley’s Story. She is 36. /// You know, some people think that you are valuable based…
Not for Sale: Atlanta’s Facing Sex Trafficking
Last summer we got a call from Daisha Wilber, a freelance film journalist from Atlanta…
Pay Attention
The Facing Project is a community storytelling project that connects people through stories to strengthen…
Journaling
Becca’s Story. She is 30. /// I decided that in spite of what the doctors…
Drive
Marie’s Story. She is 36. /// It started with the virus, when Leslie was three. …
This is My Son
Belinda’s story. She is 42. /// Gabriel, my 13-year-old son, has been a better gift…
Feature Story of the Week: Questioning Homelessness
What we like about this story is its power through vulnerability. Excuse me, what are…
Mine
Christine’s story. She is 43. /// People often ask me if—knowing what I know now—would…
Featured story of the week: My Son, The Prom King
The featured story of the week is “My Son, The Prom King” as told to…
My Son, The Prom King
Emma’s story. She is 42. /// My story is a lot different than parents who have…
Well Worth the Wait
My journey to Marilyn Ringstaff and the Women of W.O.R.T.H. organization was not a short,…
The Other Side of Me
“I never imagined this could happen to me.” Everyone says that but it is true.…
Taking the First Step
I first connected with the Rome-Floyd County Commission on Children and Youth when I became…
Bellies Filled With Hope
Today is a day of thanks. It has been one year since I fought and…
It’s Never Too Late
My name is Theresa; I have a story to tell. I was born in Ohio,…
A New Day for Angel
As my daughter Angel neared high school, I became more nervous for her knowing graduation…
Ready, Willing, and Stable
Without the Rome, Georgia chapter of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), I’d probably…
The American Dream
It was a hot and stifling night. As I lay drifting off to sleep, my…
Southern Hospitality and Love
There was a lot of trauma that I went through as a child, an adolescent,…
Finding Life After Death
I met my first husband, James, while I was studying to become a nurse, and…
No More Bad Things
Dear Diary, 28 April 2011 I am writing to you in secret because Mommy…
A Hand Up
Our eldest daughter came to live with us, bringing our grandchildren and a suitcase of…
Four-legged Philanthropy
I have always loved animals. It’s not an uncommon interest I know, loving animals, but…
A Breath of Fresh Air
Chronic bronchitis. All the doctors kept telling me that’s what it was when I was…
Seizing Second Chances
The trees pass by in a blur as I look out the passenger window of…
Questioning Homelessness
Excuse me, what are you looking at? Do I look that different than you? Out…
Will Work For Treats
Compassionate Paws, Inc. is an affiliate of Pet Partners. It was originally created July 5,…
The Long Road Home
“The court orders that the defendant shall serve a sentence of 40 years in state…
Do What You Love, Love What You Do
The main thing I want people to know is not to feel sorry for me.…
His Way
If you need something and I’ve got it, I’ll share what I’ve got. That’s the…
Help Wanted: Someone to Relate
Finding someone who actually understands what you are going through is not always as easy…
Featured Story of the Week: “It’s not Your Fault”
The featured story of the week is “It’s not Your Fault”, told to Kyle Perkins,…
It’s not Your Fault
The basement looked like an ice rink. Kids might have wanted to play on it…
Featured story of the week: Ask
The featured story of the week is “Ask” as told to consultant and graduate student…
Ask
Dana’s Story. She is 39. /// Ask. Ask why she doesn’t always make eye contact.…
Pat Astemborski: Inextinguishable, Wholly
“There are 10 of us moving across the country. We have a choice to either…
Welcome Our Interns to The Facing Project Team
The Facing Project has expanded our team, and we are happy to announce the hiring…
Our Book is in Production!
We have collected all of the stories we will feature in our upcoming booklet to…
Story of the Week: Hollywood’s Poem
A good poet is hard to find. We found a good one in Michael Brockley,…
Featured story of the week: Finding Hope through Open Doors
The featured story for this week is “Finding Hope through Open Doors,” as told to…
Finding Hope through Open Doors
Life gave me lemons, so I puckered up and became sour in responding to the…
The art of the non-interview
I’ve been collecting and sharing stories now for a decade from all over the world…
Featured story of the week: A giver learns to receive
This week I’m highlighting a story from our first project, Facing Poverty in Muncie, for…
Looking Back, Moving Forward: 2013 in Review
2013 was the year I thought never would happen. Ever since childhood I had this…
“Healing” from Facing Homelessness in Fort Wayne
The ending to an addict’s story is always the same: jail, institution, homelessness, or death.…
Chloe’s Story
Chloe is a twelve-year-old girl who is a sixth grader at Clay School. She lives…
“Healing is Believing” from Facing Autism
To write two books, hundreds of articles, and thousands of blog posts, I’ve interviewed slaves…
Healing is Believing
Angela’s story. She is 43. /// The circus curtains in the boys’ room were iridescent.…
Building community story by story
A participant of Facing Homelessness in Ft. Wayne, Indiana, decided she wanted to do something…
Red Carpet Roll Out for Teenage Girls in South Bend
South Bend, Indiana, recently held their book release and video premiere event for their Facing…
Facing Project featured on hour-long radio show
One of the 350 folks in attendance at the Facing Autism event in Muncie was…
Rome. Muncie. South Bend. Three Facing Project Events in Three Weeks
If you follow our posts on The Facing Project Facebook page, you more than likely…
Honoring the Stories of Facing
Hey, everyone! J.R. here. Kelsey and I continue to be completely amazed at how The…
Facing Project Booklet
This is a copy of the Facing Project booklet.
The Facing Autism event movie
On November 2, 2013 at the Muncie Civic Theatre 350 community members gathered to hear…
Thriving in the Unknown
Allison’s story. She is 34. /// It rocks your world. It really does. Having a…
Muncie Community Unites to Tell Stories of Autism: Often Misunderstood Disorder to Take Center Stage
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE October 26, 2013 MUNCIE – As the old saying goes, “You never…
Calling All Writers
Drug abuse is a growing problem in our community. And to combat that, Union College…
Home Plate
Dennis’s Story. He is 32. Watch the reading of Dennis’s story from the Facing Autism…
Journeying from Disbelief to Acceptance
The Facing Project is a community storytelling project that connects people through stories to strengthen…
Tackle
Chad’s Story. He is 36. Watch the reading of Chad’s story from the Facing Autism…
Kiyah’s Story
Kiyah is a 12 years old. She lives with her mother and younger sibling (sister).…
Our Facing Project Photos
Here is a link to some of the photos that were taken during our Facing…
Nikki’s Story
Nikki is 15-years-old and attends The Crossing High School at The Kroc Center where she…
Zeai’s Story
Zeai sees the world as “an opportunity to be a beacon of light for her…
To Myself the First Day of Freshman Year
If going back in time was as easy as pulling a book off of a…
A Troubled Teenage Girl
Teenage girlsAre comparable to a natural mineral or gemstoneWhen a mineral or gemstone is first…
My New Life Starts Today
A few months ago my life suddenly changedI found out that I was pregnant and…
My Anger Can Go
My anger comes andmy anger goesWhen it comesI often forgetTo think about myself and the…
Carissa’s Story
Carissa is 19-years-old and graduated from Clay High School in June 2013. Graduating is a…
Gabby’s Story
Gabby is 11-years-old and is going into the 5th grade. She was held back when…
Katrina’s Story
Katrina is a 16-year-old girl who attends Clay High School in South Bend, Indiana. She…
Allie’s Story
Allie has attended four schools because her family has moved many times during her childhood.…
Tiara’s Story
Tiara, age 16, says that being a teenager in South Bend, Indiana is a “struggle…
In America I Trust
Daniel’s story. Age 21. Oregon. What’s your story? Join the project and share. /// In…
Welcome to Our Blog
Union College has teamed up with The Facing Project to share the stories of those…
White Girl Born in America
Daisha’s Story. Age 33. Georgia. What’s your story? Join the project and share. /// A…
Facing Stories of Immigration – Join the National Project
Immigrant. Does the word define a man, woman, or child? Or does the word keep…
When you are a Dreamer, Anything is Possible
Fabiola’s story. Age 28. New York. Part 2 of a two-part story. This story is…
Mexican Girl Dreamed of the Backstreet Boys. Not of America.
Fabiola’s Story. Age 28. New York. Part 1 of a two-part story. This story is…
Amilcar’s Journey
In 2005, I traveled to Honduras because my T-shirt was made there. Silly reason, I…
The Domino Effect of Facing _______
Each day I wake up, hit snooze on the alarm. . .once, twice, and up…
Immigration: What is Your Story?
Thank you for visiting Facing Stories of Immigration in the U.S., a national project of The Facing…
Welcome to Our Blog!
Thank you for visiting Facing HOPE in Rome, Georgia, an affiliate of The Facing Project.…
The Facing Project in our own words
How did the Facing Project start? Why are we doing this? J.R. and I had…
What’s Next?
Linda’s Story. She is 50 years old. Life was moving all around me, but I…
We Are All the Same
Amber’s Story. She is 26 years old. I remember hearing my mother cry, though she…
The Smell of Hopelessness
Oscar’s Story. He is 51 years old. The main factors that caused me to become…
The Man in the Last Pew
—for the man with the same name as mine It’s a little thing for…
Stepping Stones
Mary’s Story. She is 30 years old. I didn’t plan to be homeless . .…
Outside Living
James’s Story. He is 56 years old. I been living outside for awhile now, but…
Nothing Else Mattered
Dwight’s Story. He is 60 years old. I was a juvenile delinquent and I never…
No Regrets
Caroline’s Story. She is 41 years old. My journey to homelessness began when I took…
How I Became Homeless
John’s Story. He wrote this account himself. I am 32 years of age, a community…
Helping the Invisible be Seen
Miss Sally’s Story. She is 45 years old. The short article that follows is a…
I Just Blinked
Danielle’s Story. She is 25 years old. Everybody has a story. Stories matter. People need…
I Did it for Her
Joe’s Story. He is 59 years old. I spent some time in the service. I…
The Hamburger Guy
Eddie’s Story. He is 55 years old. Sunday nights are a little crazy at McDonald’s…
Healing
Michelle’s Story. She is 45 years old. In August 1993 I was homeless. I cannot…
Choices and Changes
Neil’s Story. He is 38 years old. Well I lost my job, and that was…
Birthday Blessings
Allison’s Story. She is 37. It was five or six years back, around 2008, when…
Bicycles
Matthew’s Story. He is 46 years old. Homelessness isn’t a disease or a political issue…
An Unfairy Tale
Alicia’s Story. She is 22 years old. When my sister and I were young, we…
Welcome to our blog
Welcome to our Facing Project Blog! We look forward to bringing you information on events…
Facing Autism in Muncie, Indiana
1 in 85 children are diagnosed with autism today. To better understand what this experience…
5 Cities. 5 Different Projects. 5 Amazing Stories. The first 5 Facing Projects.
If you would have told us a year ago that in one year The Facing…