Who should submit?
Over the years, we have been moved and inspired by the stories of caregivers and the sacrifices they make to support those who are living with illness. We know that caregivers are often unsung heroes and individuals who do immeasurable work that sometimes goes unnoticed. The Conversation Project (TCP) humbly invites individuals from all over to submit pitches to be considered for our upcoming series of blogs that will focus on the stories of caregivers. Though we invite everyone to apply, we are particularly interested in stories by those who have cared for others, been cared for by others and anyone else who understands the invaluable role of a caregiver. We encourage individuals from marginalized backgrounds to apply for this paid opportunity.
What you should submit?
Submit a pitch! And, if your pitch is selected, you will be requested to submit a full piece. The pitch should take one of two forms: 1.) You can submit a bulleted outline that consists of the different points you will address. 2.) Or, you can write 1-2 paragraphs (maximum) that summarizes your vision for the blog. Pitches that are too long, might not get read as we are a small (yet, mighty) team and receive a lot of submissions! All in all, we kindly ask that your pitch is brief and concise. The hard deadline is September 7, 2021.
Your piece should discuss/speak to one or more of the following ideas:
- Personal stories by caregivers where they highlight their experiences talking about and honoring what matters most to the person they care for
- The joys and challenges of being a caregiver
- What it’s like to care for someone with Alzheimer’s Disease or another form of dementia
- What it’s like to care for seriously ill children
- Experiences where a caregiver had to speak to a health care team on behalf of the person they care for
- How one sustained their personal well-being while caring for others
If there’s a specific topic that we did not mention and you are passionate about, please email us to inquire about it.
Your final piece, if accepted, can take one of the following forms:
- A blog that is 600-700 words
- A video that is no more than 5 minutes long
If you’re selected…
Selected candidates will be compensated for their work. Writers of blogs will be paid $300 and we will discuss compensation with those who submit videos. For those selected, we would ask for the final piece to be submitted within a month of acceptance. In addition to payment, we will feature you on our social media platforms, website, and newsletters in the coming months.
We look forward to hearing from you!
(NOTE: Pitches submitted via email or in the comment section of this post will not be reviewed.)
Please email us at conversationproject@ihi.org if you have any questions.
Caregivers are the quiet heroes who provide love, support, and unwavering care to those in need. Their dedication is both inspiring and deeply touching.