Family Insight Dashboard: Stories
A collection of stories on the well-being of North Carolina families.
About the Family Insight Dashboard Stories
The work of the Institute is grounded in the core principle of inspiring change through narrative. We view storytelling as a powerful strategy for data visualization and a crucial tool for understanding families' needs. The clips below are taken from the narratives of real North Carolina families. Each story relates to one of the six categories that represent families’ perspectives on what they need to thrive
Civic Engagement
Civic engagement plays a crucial role in enhancing family well-being by fostering a sense of community, belonging, and social support. Listen to Durham County Commissioner Michelle Burton share her family legacy that influenced her to be the change she wanted to see in her community.
Housing
Housing is a cornerstone of family well-being. It provides a safe and stable environment, crucial for both physical and emotional health. A secure home allows family members to thrive, fostering a sense of belonging and stability. Listen to Audrie, Vini, and Vivianna Sa as they share their journey from leaving their first family home to move into their dream home. Share in their ups and downs and hear about an unexpected incident that almost threatened their forever ever home.
Education
Public education significantly contributes to family well-being by providing children with access to quality education, which is crucial for their intellectual, social, and emotional development. Titus Hopper is a father, educator and entrepreneur, Titus tells his heartwarming story of how his life was touched by a teacher who provided support at a pivotal time in his life. And how that support still resonates and impacts him and his family today.
Child Protective Environment
Children need a safe environment to develop and grow to their potential. Part of providing this environment is ensuring communities have the programs and resources needed to support them through difficult times. Brandon Sharp and his social worker Tim Rollins reflect on Brandon’s experiences in foster care, discussing both the challenges and positive aspects of his journey. Despite hardships, Brandon finds support from his current foster family and organizations like SaySo at the Children’s Home Society of North Carolina.
Nutrition and Healthcare
Healthcare and mental health are foundational to family well-being, providing the essential support needed for individuals and families to thrive. Mental health impacts emotional well-being, relationships, and the ability to cope with life's challenges. Pastor Jeffrey Davis reflects on the positive lessons he learned from his mother, father, and family advocate; while also sharing the challenges he faced in his upbringing which were overcome by his desire to show love, receive love, and give love.
Work and Wages
Work and wages have a profound impact on family well-being including economic stability, quality of life, and ensuring work-life balance. Secure and well-compensated employment not only meets immediate material needs but also contributes to the long-term health, stability, and happiness of families. Claudia Perry and Lance Ollivierre, former spouses, share insight on their journey towards economic stability for their family. They discuss their decision to uproot their family and move to a more resourced area of town in pursuit of generational well-being and better educational opportunities for their children.