Storytelling, Storylistening
A Porch Swing Series Culture Change Workbook
Action Pact, Inc. © 2006.
This is a great tool for neighborhood and household coordinators, for activities
professionals, for caregivers or any staff, for volunteers and families trying to make a
difference in the lives of elders.
Written by Keith Schaeffer, senior writer at Action Pact, who has worked as a writer
and organizer on human rights and social justice issues since 1978. A strong storyteller
in his own work and a true listener in his personal style, he presents the reader with
the challenge of creating an environment for stories: the stuff of life in relationships!
Topics include how to talk with elders, listening as the silent half of reminiscing and
storytelling, community learning circles, use of great resources like TimeSlips,
Reminiscence Boxes, photographs, timelines, computer and webpages, poetry, and ethical
wills.
Seven great activities are included in this work.
