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Want to Change the Status Quo? Let These Stories Inspire You

Across the country, nimble entrepreneurs and activists are turning out brilliant new twists on everything from neighborhood watch to graffiti to sewing circles. Here’s how they’re making it happen.

American Journalism Project

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Pocket has teamed up with the American Journalism Project to bring some of the best local journalism from across the country right to you—no matter where you live. Each month we’ll highlight deep dives into local stories with national impact—the kind of journalism that brings nuance and context to the major issues we face on a national scale. Read more about our partnership here and browse past collections to get your local fix.

The worlds of technology and business are constantly striving to disrupt and reinvent, often resulting in “upgrades” no one needs, or services built on the back of exploited workers. But across America, there’s a surge of creative overhauls, with citizens rethinking systems and norms that no longer serve their communities. That can look like the “Black Mr. Rogers” bringing peace and social-emotional learning to kids in Chicago—or non-profits tackling West Virginia’s unemployment crisis with a more holistic approach. And in Montana, it’s a graffiti artist taking on vandalism with... well, graffiti, but you’ll have to read more for the full story. When you zoom out, it’s easy to see how these local transformations build upon each other—and ultimately, hold the power to inspire others to look for the next opportunity to challenge the status quo in their own city.

Queer and Trans Wrestlers Enter the Ring in Red Hook

“We’re not Jello wrestling, we’re not play-fighting, we’re not pretend-smacking, we’re really trained athletes who are competitors.”

Billings Graffiti Artist Drawing the Line Between Craft and Vandalism

As the city grapples with unwanted and illegal tagging, one artist strives to bring respectability to graffiti.

How Indigenous Nations Are Rebuilding Food Systems

Local food, grounded in cultural and spiritual values, forms the basis for a growing food sovereignty movement.

Mr. Dad’s Father’s Club Aims to Build up Chicago’s Youth

Many young people in Chicago don’t feel safe in their neighborhoods. Through his nonprofit, Joseph Williams is trying to change that—one book at a time.

In the Rhythm and the Ropes, They Find Freedom

The Memphis 40+ Double Dutch club is made up of more than a dozen women who meet for fellowship and fun at the community center.

Combating Climate Change Begins With Reparations, Bay Area Residents Say

“Even though it’s impacting everything, thinking about climate change and pollution as a major issue is really a privilege,” Margaret Gordon explained, “because it means you’re not fighting to survive.”

De’Morea ‘Truckie’ Evans Is Making Oakland’s Streets Safer Through Community Organizing

De’Morea ‘Truckie’ Evans is an artist who also happens to be a preacher, community organizer, and a barber. His organization, the Roll Out Crew, helps educate people about bicycling and road safety through fun city-wide rides.

Mothers Help Each Other Through Stories of Migration and Sewing

Using the craft of sewing traditional Mexican servilletas, migrant mothers open a safe space to discuss topics of migration, mental health and family.

Elementary School Teacher Revolutionizes School’s Approach to Reading

Crystal Lenhart, a reading specialist at Big Horn Elementary in Wyoming, channeled her passion for literacy to launch a new method of teaching reading — one that closed the gap in reading proficiency at her school.

Museum Changes Policy After Karuk Mother Speaks Out

Offended by multiple employees who told her to remove her traditional woven willow baby carrier, Sophie Weinstein left the Portland Art Museum’s exhibit. The incident caused an uproar.

How Nonprofits Are Bringing New Energy to Addressing West Virginia’s Workforce Woes

“We see ourselves modeling a different and better way to do workforce development.”

Elevating Local Stories With Pocket and the American Journalism Project

Connect with some of the best local journalism from outlets across the country, explore the issues facing our communities, and discover your next favorite story.

American Journalism Project

The American Journalism Project (AJP) is the first venture philanthropy dedicated to local news. AJP makes grants to local nonprofit news organizations to build their revenue and business operations, partner with communities to launch new organizations, and mentor leaders as they grow and sustain their newsrooms. Learn more about the independent, community-driven nonprofit news organizations AJP supports.