My Story Project

About the My Story Project

The “My Story Project” consists of a skilled team of senior volunteers who assist other seniors in preserving their memories and stories on DVD. This project was started in 2011 with a grant and has helped 100+ seniors complete videos. Senior volunteers receive on-going training in digital video, computer technologies, and coaching other seniors to organize the material they wish to include on their video story. This training assures a professional quality experience in coaching, camera work and editing, including the integration of photos into the story.

The My Story Project group operates out of  Sierra 2 Senior Center (Room 12), at the Sierra 2 Center.

Volunteers who are experienced, or would like to learn, video editing are currently needed! Prospective clients & volunteers are welcome to attend the monthly meetings that are held on the second Monday of the month at 1 p.m. in Room 12. Please call Regina Lightle, Program Assistant, in the Senior Center at (916) 455-6339 to confirm the date and your attendance.

What Clients Can Expect

The all-volunteer crew of seniors walk clients through each step of the process. First, clients are paired with a Story Coach who helps the client organize their story and select, scan, & digitize related photos, newspaper clippings, home video clips, and official documents. Next the client meets at the Senior Center to film their story with the Film Crew. Finally, clients meet with an Editor to review the video and make any changes or corrections as they see fit.

Clients receive their story on a flash drive. To support the Senior Center and its activities we ask for a minimum donation of $150 for the My Story Service.

Sign Up for a Recording Session! Take the journey to find out who you are today, and who you have been in the past, and share your story with family and friends. Scroll down to contact us to get started.

Volunteers Needed for Filming

The My Story Project team is always looking for new faces to join them!

Volunteer roles include:

  • Story Coaches – These people assist the client with their stories, memories and photos.
  • Film Crew – These volunteers operate the camera equipment, set up lights and backgrounds, and control the sound.
  • Editors – Duties include editing the video into a coherent story with with photos, home movie clips, documents, etc.  to make the DVD.
  • Outreach – Some volunteers are needed to help make connections in the community to bring in new clients and spread the word about this wonderful program.

My Story volunteers may work on Mondays in the afternoon. Schedule depends on number of clients.

No experience is necessary and training for new volunteers will be provided! Becoming a My Story volunteer is a great way to meet new people, join a community, and learn a new skill or two!

Get in Touch!

For client and volunteer inquiries, please give us a call at (916) 455-6339, email us at seniorcenter@sierra2.org.