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We have a lot of great storytelling coming in 2024, but before we turn the page on the year, let’s look at a few of our favorite stories from 2023.
I asked our electric editorial teams to share some of their favorite features from across your magazine brands this year, paired with what you can learn from the feature to apply to your stories in 2024. The topics run the gamut from inspiring to heart-wrenching. After all, the best stories are the ones that make connections.
1. Going the Extra Mile, by Pamela A. Keene
Ruralite, recommended by Mike Teegarden
The members of the Extra Miler Club have a motto: The shortest distance between two points is no fun. Instead, they aspire to travel the winding backcountry roads that put them in touch with all 3,143 counties in the United States. Sixty-seven club members have achieved the feat while making friends around the country with like-minded travelers. They are proof positive that it’s not the destination that matters, but the journey.
Top Takeaway: What unique interests unite your community? Whether it’s a travel group or friends who serve together, stories like this are everywhere. Share them to help build community.
2. Beauty Reigns, by Cheré Coen
Louisiana Country, recommended by Chasity Anderson
This fun story celebrates Louisiana’s queens and educates readers about what goes on behind the scenes. The story idea arose when the Louisiana Office of Tourism invited 22 women to ride its Celebration Riverboat float in the 134th Rose Parade in Pasadena, California. Some utilities used a custom cover to highlight a winner in their community.
Top Takeaway: You may not have crawfish to kiss, but every community celebrates local heroes. Reach out to your chamber of commerce to find community celebrations to spotlight.
3. Unlock Literacy, by Theresa Sterling
Florida Currents, recommended by Mike Teegarden
Adult illiteracy affects 20% of our population, and programs to serve adults have a waiting list. Those affected struggle with the daily tasks of filling out forms, reading menus and writing emails. But there are programs that can help, providing hope.
This story profiles the work of Tim Conway — a neuroscientist who also is dyslexic — to help those who struggle with reading and writing. His patients have shown remarkable progress.
Top Takeaway: Not every hero gets a crown. Ask your staff about community champions, both celebrated and – better yet – working quietly in the background to make life better for the people you serve.
3. Unlock Literacy, by Theresa Sterling
Florida Currents, recommended by Mike Teegarden
Adult illiteracy affects 20% of our population, and programs to serve adults have a waiting list. Those affected struggle with the daily tasks of filling out forms, reading menus and writing emails. But there are programs that can help, providing hope.
This story profiles the work of Tim Conway — a neuroscientist who also is dyslexic — to help those who struggle with reading and writing. His patients have shown remarkable progress.
Top Takeaway: Not every hero gets a crown. Ask your staff about community champions, both celebrated and – better yet – working quietly in the background to make life better for the people you serve.
5. Everyday Miracles for People With Disabilities, by Pamela A. Keene
Tennessee Connections, recommended by Chasity Anderson
Readers learn about a national initiative to remove barriers for people with disabilities so they can enjoy playing baseball. Several communities across Tennessee began miracle leagues. This story details some of the struggles faced and highlights individuals determined to make baseball accessible for all.
Top Takeaway: Many utilities provide grants to community organizations. Look for ways to profile these groups, pairing the story with a note to let your consumers know how they are supporting the group’s mission — and how they can do more.
Hope you got some ideas from these stories. I’m willing to bet there are similar stories to be found in your service area if you know where to look!