Last Thursday, we welcomed award-winning documentarian & TV anchor, Corey Hepola. Corey remembered how when he was a child his grandmother had a bulletin board in her home. Here she displayed articles that highlighted all the positive work and events happening in her community. As he grew up, he always knew he wanted to be a news anchor and he succeeded in this goal, earning Emmys for “Outstanding TV Anchor” at KARE 11.
As he advanced in his career, Corey realized that he had a passion to help communities tell their story of why people choose to live there. In 2023, his My Town series was born. This series focuses on the decisions people make to be part of their communities and also challenges perceptions many people outside these communities may have about specific areas, towns, or states. As he continued telling these stories, he came to identify a common message across communities: residents feel a deep sense of belonging, connection and involvement that leads to a sense of having made a meaningful life in their community. He concluded by reflecting on the question: What is on your bulletin board? What are the unique and positive qualities that you notice and identify with in your community? Click "Read more" for info on the My Town series!
“My Town” has grown from an idea to a reality:
-21 Episodes across 9 States
-Nominated for 4 Emmy Awards, including Outstanding Lifestyle Series
-Distribution on PBS, CBS, FOX, and cable outlets
-Inspired a TEDx Talk
-Selected to premiere at the Twin Cities Film Festival
These are positive stories of identity, resilience, and belonging. The kind of stories you pin up on your bulletin board.
