At BitterSweet, our dedication to impactful storytelling is guided by a clear framework. When evaluating potential features, we rely on these four globally relevant themes as our foundation:

• Human Rights
• Economic Empowerment
• Public Health
• Community Development

To ensure we spotlight work that matters most, we filter every story idea through these key questions:

1. What issue is the organization addressing?
2. How established is the organization, and has their impact been recognized by reliable third parties?
3. Are there meaningful ways for our audience to get involved with the organization’s work?
4. Does the organization lack the creative and storytelling resources that are essential to advancing their mission?

Every year, during our team retreat, we collaborate with our core contributors to pitch dozens of story ideas. Through thoughtful discussion and open debate, we curate a final slate of stories that align with our purpose.

If you know an inspiring organization that we should feature, we’d love to hear about it—your suggestions help us grow and uncover new stories of hope.

BitterSweet Monthly is powered by the BitterSweet Foundation (a 501c3). We are primarily supported through two key avenues:

1. BitterSweet Creative – Our for-profit creative agency.
2. Faithful Story Supporters – An incredible community of individuals who donate monthly and at our annual pitch night.

If you’re inspired by the work we do, you can help sustain it by becoming a Story Supporter. Your support not only brings vital stories to life but also grows our network of readers and advocates. To join, subscribe to our newsletter (link in the footer) and share our stories within your community.

• Rev. Anne Grizzle – Anne is an ordained minister, author, and counselor with extensive experience in leadership and nonprofit development. Her work focuses on empowering individuals and organizations to grow through spiritual and emotional resilience.
• Mark Batterson – Mark is a New York Times bestselling author and lead pastor of National Community Church in Washington, D.C. He is passionate about storytelling that inspires and has dedicated his career to fostering creative and impactful initiatives.
• Lora Batterson – Lora is co-founder and pastor at National Community Church with a background in finance and racial justice work. She is currently on the board of Prison Fellowship, which cares for people currently incarcerated and their families.
• Bailey Skiles – Bailey earned her MBA with a focus on entrepreneurship and the arts and has leveraged that experience for numerous start-ups and organizations. She is currently Director of Strategy and Operations at Booz Allen Hamilton.