Storybanking in evaluation: Illustrating strengths and providing context about what’s working

Talking Through the Numbers

Current data and understanding about American Indian children and families is limiting and often focuses on disparities. Using a story-focused approach in evaluation can help in better understanding what experiences are important and meaningful to Indigenous families in Minnesota. Guests discuss how they used storybanking—gathering stories from people directly impacted by policies, programs and services—as part of a project designed to align and coordinate systems for families with young children. These stories helped the Minnesota departments of Education, Health, and Human Services and the Governor’s Children’s Cabinet learn about the lives and experiences of Indigenous children, families and communities in Minnesota, better understand how they are doing, and help them access what they need to thrive. Guests include: • Lucy Littlewolf Arias, MN Department of Education • Jessica Tokunaga, Wilder Research