Making Your Documentary Matter 2005 part 1

The first of an annual producer's workshop was held at the Center for Social Media at American University on February 7, 2005. The workshop was designed to showcase strategies and resources on audience engagement using media. It served to highlight the dynamic and growing use of media as a tool for social outreach.

Filmmakers, students, programmers, activists, non-profits and funders were drawn together by the opportunity to share ideas, to find successful models, to network, and to identify funding opportunities. Media makers learned that funding for outreach and production go together. They learned that strategic planning strengthens a project. And finally, they learned that outreach specialists stand ready to help. Watching these video clips, you will have a chance to hear the panelists as they speak about these important issues.

Diana Ingraham, Director of US Independents Inc., outlines the educational partnership between Daniel Anker's film, Music from the Inside Out, and the American Association for Music Education. She speaks to the importance of involving partners early and keeping them engaged; aligning project goals with those of your partners; and understanding what teachers need.

Robert West, Executive Director of Working Films, discusses the strategic campaign for Blue Vinyl, which was conceived as a community organizing tool. He stresses the importance of sustaining relationships and developing measures of impact.

Cheryl Head, Senior Director of Outreach and Diversity Programming at Corporation for Public Broadcasting, stresses the importance of a strong story with compelling characters. She discusses resources available through institutional partnerships. Head notes the importance of having clear message points; knowing the audience that you want to reach and why the film will be important to them; and reaching out for professional expertise.