Public Allies has always been about more than a program—it’s a community that shows up for each other when it matters most. Just ask José Rico, PA Alum and Chief Engagement Officer at PA National, whose journey from PA Chicago (’94) to public service was shaped by the relationships he built along the way.
Right now, funding for organizations like PA is on shaky ground. So we’re calling on our Alumni, partners, and supporters to share their stories. Because when we lift up our collective stories and experiences, we don’t just reflect on the past—we rally for a better future.
YOUR STORY IS A HUGE PART OF THIS MOVEMENT. COME WITH US BY SHARING YOURS!
Share your story:
- Record a short video (30-90 seconds) – we have example story prompts below, including a freestyle option for those if you who can’t be tied down!
- Include a Call to Action – choose 1 or 2 from the example list below to include in your video. You can add the respective links to your own posts/profiles, or simply lead them to and/or tag the Public Allies account for more information.
- Close strong. End your video by saying, “This is my PA story, this is our PA Story.” and add in some personal flavor if you like!
- Upload it to us using this form. We’ll amplify it on our Public Allies social media channels, websites, etc.
- Tag Public Allies (@PublicAllies) & post it! Publish it to your own social channels and tag us on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, or LinkedIn. Use the hashtags #PAAlum & #OurPAStory
Invite others to share their own story. Nominate a fellow alum, or someone who has been impacted by Public Allies to record and share a video too! Email them this blog or tag them directly in the comments of your social post.
Example Calls To Action for All
- Donate and Support PA – Help sustain PA’s future and ensure leadership pathways remain open. Donate here!
Example Calls To Action for #PAAlum
- Call in your community and keep the network strong! Call a fellow alum to reconnect.
- #PAAlum, where you at? Take the Alumni Survey so we have your most up to date info.
- Take the lead. Step up as a local ambassador and organizer for the Public Allies National Alumni Council.
Example Story Prompts
Below are simple structure examples to follow as you record your video. Don’t feel like these are a fit? Check out the ‘Freestyle” option.
YOU AS A FIRST-GENERATION LEADER
Intro: Share your name, PA site, class plus anything else you’d like to say about who you are
Video Opening: How was your decision to do Public Allies different from those around you? And why did you decide to do it?
““I cared about social justice, but never equated that to a job or career…I never saw myself as a leader before, but now I see my responsibility as a community leader to be there for others, because we are all connected…”
The Challenge: What was a personal or professional challenge you faced before or during Public Allies?
“I was at a point of transition and unsure of where to go next…There were so many things I learned and experienced that I would not have otherwise had the opportunity to do so… “
The Public Allies Experience: How has Public Allies helped you navigate through a challenge?
“Then I found Public Allies. They believed in me when I didn’t believe in myself. They gave me the mentorship, skills, and community to grow into a leader.”
The Outcome: What did you take away from your PA experience, and why should others support Public Allies now?
“Today, I work in community development, creating opportunities for others like me. Public Allies changed my life—let’s make sure it keeps changing others.”
CTA & Ending Salutation:
[Insert your Call to Action (CTA) of choice] and state, ““This is my PA story, this is our PA Story.”
YOU AS THE ADVOCATE WHO FOUND THEIR VOICE
Intro: Share your name, PA site, class plus anything else you’d like to say about who you are
Video Opening: What about Public Allies helped you speak up for yourself and others? How has it helped you do that now?
“We can’t remain quiet, we must call out the injustices, our voice matters more than ever now because…”
The Challenge: What was a personal or professional challenge you faced before or during Public Allies?
“I saw injustices in my community but didn’t know how to advocate for change. I felt powerless.”
The Public Allies Experience: How did Public Allies help you navigate through the challenge?
“Through Public Allies, I learned to use my voice. I gained the confidence and skills to speak up and organize.”
The Outcome: What did you take away from your PA experience, and why should others support Public Allies now?
“Now, I’m working on policy changes that impact thousands. If you’ve ever felt unheard—this is your moment.
CTA & Ending Salutation:
[Insert your Call to Action (CTA) of choice] and state, ““This is my PA story, this is our PA Story.”
YOU AS THE SOCIAL IMPACT ENTREPRENEUR
Intro: Share your name, PA site, class plus anything else you’d like to say about who you are
Video Opening: How has Public Allies led you to pursue your entrepreneurial endeavors, and how does it inform your decision making?
“Starting a nonprofit/business was hard work and I won’t be shut down by extreme actions from DC. The values I learned as an Ally, I carry with me when it comes to…”
The Challenge: What was a personal or professional challenge you faced before or during Public Allies?
“I had a vision for change but lacked resources and guidance. I felt like I was alone against the waves.”
The Public Allies Experience: How did Public Allies help you navigate through the challenge?
“Public Allies gave me a support system and community that helped me turn my ideas into action and build something that lasts.”
The Outcome: What did you take away from your PA experience, and why should others support Public Allies now?
“Today, my organization is serving hundreds of people. We got here together, and together we can do more.”
CTA & Ending Salutation:
[Insert your Call to Action (CTA) of choice] and state, ““This is my PA story, this is our PA Story.”
YOU AS __________ (FREESTYLE)
If the examples above don’t fit you exactly, you can use this more simplified version of the structure.
You are also welcome to format your story in a way that feels true to you. For example if you’re a poet, write and recite a piece. If you’re an artist, show us something that resonates with your PA experience.
Intro: Share your name, PA site, class plus anything else you’d like to say about who you are
Video Opening: How has your experience with Public Allies helped shape your life and/or career pathway?
The Challenge: What was a personal or professional challenge you faced before or during Public Allies?
The Public Allies Experience: How did Public Allies help you navigate through the challenge?
The Outcome: What did you take away from your PA experience, and why should others support Public Allies now?
CTA & Ending Salutation:
[Insert your Call to Action (CTA) of choice] and state, ““This is my PA story, this is our PA Story.”
Public Allies is dedicated to disrupting systems that impact communities, while listening, learning, and working together across differences to build the common good. Join us.