As a staff member or volunteer at a Catholic Charities agency, you have a powerful perspective on the needs of our most vulnerable neighbors. We invite you to share a story about someone you served, their moment of need, your calling to help and how you carry their story with you. 

Do I Qualify to Share a Story? 

Yes! If the following describe you: 

• You are a staff member or a volunteer at a Catholic Charities agency. 
• You have a story to share of a single person or a family in need who impacted you greatly when you served or cared for them.  
• You can travel (all expenses paid) to Alexandria, Virginia — just outside Washington, D.C. — from July 28 to July 30, 2025, for filming in a professional film studio.

Key Things to Know 

• Final selections of submissions will be made by May 23. If your narrative is chosen, you’ll receive an all-expenses-paid trip to Alexandria, Virginia, for filming. 
• If selected, you’ll work with a copywriter to shape the story into a roughly 90-second script before being professionally filmed. 
• The deadline to submit a video of your story of service is May 9, 2025. 

As You Reflect, Consider these Questions 

• Whom did you encounter in their time of need? 
• What happened during this encounter? 
• Why did this moment feel sacred or meaningful to you? 
• How did the other person respond? 
• Did this experience change you — personally, emotionally, or spiritually? How so?

Ready to Record? Here’s What to Know

• While you will be sharing personal reflections about those you’ve served, be assured that if your story of service is selected, no identifiable details about your client will be included in the final video or the exhibit. 
• Your submission videos will only be used for story review and selection. They will not be made public. 
• Video quality doesn't matter at this stage — the story you tell is what counts most. 
• Wear comfortable clothing and record with whatever device works best in whatever manner is easiest (e.g., holding your phone, resting your tablet on a desk, using your laptop, etc.). 
• You are welcome to write the narrative out and read it on camera, if that feels more natural. 
• Please keep your video to between 2- and 4-minutes long. 
• Record in the language you are most comfortable with! We welcome non-English-language submissions.  

Watch a Sample Video

• Still now sure? Watch a sample video to give you a better sense of just what we're looking for.
• Then click on the submit button to start the process.