Stories That Move Policy: Turning Community Voice into Advocacy

Aja Owens and Grace Cobble will cofacilitate “Stories That Move Policy: Turning Community Voice into Advocacy” as part of the 2026 Cover Missouri Coalition Advocates Retreat, occurring November 19

Effective advocacy requires both evidence and empathy. This interactive workshop explores how the Community Health Commission of Missouri (CHCM) integrates storytelling into policy, communications, and community engagement to advance health equity. Participants will learn how qualitative interviews and quantitative data can be combined to strengthen policy recommendations, advocacy materials, and public engagement.

Using examples from CHCM’s work, we’ll examine how stories illuminate systemic barriers, inform decision-makers, and build support for equitable solutions. The session also highlights ethical storytelling practices, including building trust, compensating community expertise, obtaining informed consent, and ensuring stories are used in ways that benefit the communities who share them. 

Register here for the advocates retreat!