Plan a budget

Here are some suggestions that could factor into your budget:

• VENUE

  You should be able to get a space donated or at a discount. Ask ahead of time about additional required charges like security.

• AV EQUIPMENT

  Microphones, speakers and projectors are sometimes provided by the venue, but if not, a rental is needed.

• SOUND ENGINEER/EXPERT

  You’ll want to be extra-sure that every audience member can hear all aspects of the event. Your venue might have someone who specializes in sound in that space. If you work for a broadcast media outlet, co-workers should be able to help. Or you might need to budget to bring in your own sound expert.

• PROGRAM

  A program on paper gives your event more significance and makes a nice souvenir. Print in your newsroom if possible. We suggest double-sided, color, two to a letter-sized page. Be sure to account for time and cost to get them cut in half at a print shop if you don’t have a heavy-duty papercutter.

• PAY FOR STORYTELLERS

  In keeping with the spirit of the project and the idea of recognizing the worth of stories told by people with IDD, you do need to pay storytellers for their time and effort. Around $50–100 for each storyteller is the range we recommend.

• ASL INTERPRETER/EVENT

  Only use a certified interpreter. You must provide an ASL interpreter in keeping with the commitment to accessibility. And if you do not have any Deaf/hard of hearing participants, you do not need to provide an interpreter for the workshop(s).

• ASL INTERPRETER – WORKSHOP(S)

  If you are meeting at a program’s venue, they might have one already. And if you do not have any Deaf/hard of hearing participants, you DO NOT need to provide an interpreter for the workshop(s).

• PLAIN LANGUAGE TRANSLATION

  This is for the program or promotional materials. If you work with Rebecca Monteleone it will be 30 cents/word. There is no guarantee she will be available – but she might be able to suggest others she’s trained.

• REFRESHMENTS

  Bottled water at least. Snacks if possible, but be mindful of food restrictions and allergies. If you do a one-day workshop we recommend you include lunch.

• ILLUSTRATIONS

  Hire illustrators with IDD. Or work with your program partner(s).

• MUSIC

  If you can’t afford live music or a DJ, make a playlist based on the theme.

• VIDEO PRODUCTION

  Videotape your entire event. You’ll want it for posterity – and hopefully to share publicly after the event. You should livestream the event, if possible.

• PHOTOGRAPHY

  Take portraits of the storytellers for social media. And photos at the workshop(s) and event.

• SWAG

  Tote bags, stickers, etc – any items that you want to hand out to participants.

• DISCRETIONARY FUNDS

  We recommend setting aside some funds, about $500 - $1000, for other costs that could come up as you plan your event.