Every city has a story…
What’s yours?
The CityStory Project is proudly presented by Empower Media Exchange (EMX),
a mission and media-based nonprofit dedicated to strengthening community storytelling, creative expression and media literacy.
Created to bridge the gap between everyday people and the media that represents them,
The CityStory Project’s purpose is to elevate local voices, preserve cultural memory and
build trust in the stories that shape our shared understanding of community.
Through CityStory, EMX continues its mission to make storytelling accessible, inclusive and transformative – one city at a time.
About the citystory project
Celebrating the stories that shape our cities…
The CityStory Project is a community storytelling project that celebrates the people and places that shape our cities. Designed to showcase the stories of communities across the United States, CityStory brings “Story Corners” to public spaces and gathering places, inviting residents and visitors to share their own experiences in words, video, audio or photographs.
Each story becomes part of a living digital archive that reflects the character of local life, creates connection and strengthens belonging. Through partnerships with local organizations, businesses, municipalities and citywide institutions, CityStory connects artists, storytellers and community members in a shared effort to preserve culture, strengthen ties and highlight the everyday voices that define a city’s identity.
How Does It Work?
1. Story Sharing
CityStory begins with people. Residents and visitors share their stories in public “Story Corners” — welcoming spaces set up in libraries, community centers and local gathering spots. Participants can record their stories in writing, audio, video or photo form, capturing personal experiences that reflect everyday life and community identity.
2. Citywide Activation
Throughout the year, CityStory partners with local organizations, artists, and institutions to host pop-up events and creative activations across the city. These experiences bring storytelling to life through workshops, live interviews, art installations and youth-led productions that connect people through shared narratives.
3. City Showcase
The stories collected become part of a living digital archive — a public platform celebrating the voices that define the city. Each CityStory culminates in a multimedia showcase, featuring portraits, video screenings and sound installations that honor storytellers, highlight neighborhood pride and inspire continued connection through the power of story.
join the movement
Why The CityStory Project Matters
Storytelling is vital to civic life, community healing and cultural preservation.
The CityStory Project reminds us that every voice has value. By collecting and sharing real stories from our neighbors, the project builds empathy, strengthens belonging and preserves the cultural fabric that makes each city unique.
COMING TO
A CITY NEAR YOU
Become a Partner
HOST…
A STORY CORNER
Turn your space into a storytelling hub. Libraries, museums, community centers and campuses can host temporary “Story Corners,” where residents and visitors record their stories through video, audio, writing or photography. CityStory provides setup guidance and creative support to make each experience meaningful and memorable.
SPONSOR…
A CITYSTORY ACTIVATION
Support a citywide storytelling event or creative activation. Sponsorships help fund artist stipends, youth apprenticeships, event registrations and the production of digital content and exhibitions. Sponsors receive public recognition, brand visibility and the opportunity to align with a citywide initiative that celebrates culture and connection.
FEATURE…
CITYSTORY AT YOUR EVENT
Invite CityStory to be part of your festival, conference or community celebration. Our mobile story stations and creative team can capture on-site stories, host interviews or create interactive art installations that engage audiences in new and authentic ways.
BRING…
CITYSTORY TO YOUR CITY
Collaborate with Empower Media Exchange to launch a full CityStory activation in your community. From planning and training to production, digital archiving and showcasing, we’ll highlight the people, places and stories that define your city’s shared identity.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Who can participate?
Everyone is welcome — residents, visitors, students, artists, and community members of all ages and backgrounds. CityStory is designed to be inclusive and accessible to anyone who wants to share their story.
Is there a cost to participate?
No. CityStory is free and open to the public. Thanks to the support of community partners and sponsors, participation, recording and access to the digital archive come at no cost. There may be a cost associated with the Community Showcase event, with sponsored tickets available upon request.
What happens after I share my story?
After your story is recorded, it’s reviewed and added to the CityStory digital archive. Select stories may also be featured in exhibitions, social media highlights or community showcases celebrating the voices that make each city unique.
How can I share my story?
You can participate in person at one of our “Story Corners” located in libraries, community centers, and local events. Depending on the setup, stories can be shared in writing, audio, video, or through photographs.
How are the stories used?
Each story is preserved in a living digital archive and may be featured in community showcases, exhibitions, or local media partnerships. Storytellers always retain credit for their contributions, unless they prefer to remain anonymous.
How can I bring CityStory to my city?
CityStory grows through collaboration. Municipalities, cultural institutions and community organizations interested in hosting the project can contact Empower Media Exchange (EMX) to explore partnership opportunities, site activations and sponsorship options that bring CityStory to life in their city.