Welcome to the home base for the Our Stories Project, hosted by the Carleton Place Public Library.
The Our Stories Project is a new 2026 initiative from the Carleton Place Public Library that brings local teens and seniors together through storytelling and filmmaking. Through this mini documentary contest, teen participants will work with older adults in the community to preserve personal histories, build intergenerational connections, and celebrate the voices and experiences of Carleton Place residents.
About the Program
In this summer documentary contest, teams of one to four teens will be paired with a local senior to create a short film sharing that senior’s story. Each documentary can explore life experiences, important memories, lessons learned, or any story the team feels is meaningful and worth telling. Participants will have the chance to showcase their creativity while competing for prizes and helping preserve the voices and experiences of Carleton Place residents.
Throughout the summer, teams will be supported with regular email updates and hands-on workshops led by professionals in video production, storytelling, and editing. These sessions will help participants build their skills, strengthen their films, and prepare their entries for the final judging process and fall awards celebration.
Information Session and Registration
An information session will be held on Wednesday, May 13, 2026, from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m.
Registrations for teens will open immediately after the info session at 7:00 p.m.
Spaces are limited, and only one team member is required to complete the teen team registration.
Why participate?
Seniors
- Take part in a unique community project
- Share personal stories and life experiences
- Connect with younger generations
- Have their stories captured and preserved on film
Teens
- Build creative and technical skills
- Gain experience in storytelling, filming, and editing
- Strengthen their resumes and portfolios
- Create meaningful work that celebrates local history
Important Dates
- Information Session: Wednesday, May 13, 2026, 6:00 to 7:00 p.m.
- Teen Registration : Opens Wed, May 13 at 7 p.m., and closes Sat, May 30th at 7 p.m.
- Senior Registration: Is currently open! Email jhawkins@carletonplace.ca to get started
- Official Start of Project: Thursday, June 25, 2026
- Project Timeline: Summer 2026
- Awards Event: Currently planned for fall 2026 (around Thanksgiving)
PRIZES
More info to come soon!
EXPERTS
More info to come soon!
Awards Ceremony
Completed documentaries will be submitted at the end of the summer. In the fall, participants will be invited to an awards event celebrating the finished films. Winning teams will be selected by a panel of judges and will receive prizes.
Have any questions about the program? Email jhawkins@carletonplace.ca
