Making Media Connections 2009

May 28, 2009

Leveraging the Power of Communication: Interview with Marion Slahor of Easter Seals

-What value do you see in communicating effectively in times of austerity?

Around the world people are experiencing difficult times. That means there are thousands upon thousands of people who need their stories told and communicators are the storytellers. Whether we are passing along historical facts, cultural realities, shedding light on human atrocities or calling attention to our victories it is important to remember that communication influences the world we live in today and into the future. The value of communicating in today’s world is immeasurable because if done successfully we have the power to change lives, even if it is only one life at a time.

-What do you love most about working at Easter Seals?

If you go to http://www.easterseals.com the first thing you read is, “Easter Seals provides exceptional services, education, outreach, and advocacy so that people living with autism and other disabilities can live, learn, work and play in our communities.” That is what I love about working at Easter Seals. When I speak to people that have been touched by Easter Seals they are genuinely grateful. I know that the work I am a part of, even if only behind the scenes, has really made a difference.

-Why did you feel it necessary to invest in attending this year’s Making Media Connections Conference?

This is an exciting time to think about leveraging the power of communication in order to bring about change. The focus of the Making Media Connections Conference is all about that. I felt the personal investment I made in honing my skills to be an effective storyteller was a small amount to pay in comparison to what that investment means to the future lives of those whose stories I will tell.

-What do you plan to do with what you learn at the conference?

Professionally, I am preparing myself to be ready for opportunities that arise for communicators. Personally, on a volunteer basis, I am producing a short film for a group of students that have been fundraising for a nonprofit organization called Eurasian Missions. I plan to continue those types of projects.

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