Storyteller
About the role
NAMI Chicago is seeking passionate and courageous Storytellers to help transform the way our communities understand mental health. This is not a full-time or part-time position. Storytellers generally serve as independent contractors, on an as-needed basis, however some may serve in a volunteer-basis, in response to specific program requests.
Responsibilities
- Deliver presentations to youth, school staff, and/or families in school settings across Cook County (Track 1)
- Deliver presentations to faith communities, congregations, ministry leaders, and faith-based organizations across Cook County (Track 2)
- Share personal experiences with mental health and systems of care during a variety of wellness-centered training, conference, and advocacy sessions to raise mental health awareness (Track 3)
- Share your personal or family experience with mental health crises — including interactions with law enforcement — during Crisis Intervention Training (CIT) delivered to police officers and recruits at the Chicago Police Academy (Track 4)
Requirements
- Brought up lived experience navigating mental health challenges, either personally or through a loved one
- Willing to share your stories in a way that educates and inspires
- Demonstrate authenticity, cultural awareness, strong boundaries, and a commitment to community-centered storytelling
- Prior public speaking experience is helpful but not required
Qualifications
Applicants must indicate which of the following opportunities they are applying for:
- Track 1 — Ending the Silence
- Track 2 — Bridges of Hope
- Track 3 — Training, Conference and Advocacy
- Track 4 — Crisis Intervention Training
Skills
Authenticity, cultural awareness, strong boundaries, and a commitment to community-centered storytelling.
Benefits
Storytellers may be compensated in the form of an honorarium to recognize their time spent. All selected Storytellers are required to complete mandatory training before being activated for engagements.
Pay
The compensation for each track varies based on the nature and scope of the engagement.
Schedule
The schedule for engagements varies based on the track selected and the availability of the storyteller.
Info Sessions
If you are interested in learning more about this opportunity, you are welcome to join our team at any of our upcoming Info Sessions. Attending an Info Session is not a requirement. If you would like to attend, please register using the provided links.
Info Session Dates
- August 7th 1-2pm; Registration link: https://namichicago.zoom.us/meeting/register/GJdZgETHTnqd8UBzKIn8AQ
- August 12th 10-11am; Registration Link: https://namichicago.zoom.us/meeting/register/aPBVunKnT0y3nxC39tZYFw