Kate Starks Email and Phone Number

Narratives are the stories we hear and tell repeatedly until they shape our beliefs, relationships, and the world around us. They influence everything—from what we buy to how we vote and how we view one another. Narratives are deeply embedded in the media we consume, from books and films to music, news, and entertainment. While some narratives inspire hope and connection, others sow fear and scarcity, leading people to misplace blame or direct hatred—often toward marginalized communities. To counter this, we must center our shared humanity.At The Opportunity Agenda, we harness the power of storytelling, art, and pop culture to transform harmful narratives and amplify stories of equality and opportunity for all. A powerful story or an unforgettable movie can touch hearts, spark empathy, and open minds in ways that everyday conversations cannot. When people connect with one another through a shared experience, they become more receptive to new perspectives, breaking down barriers to understanding. That’s why we collaborate with artists, advocates, activists, and changemakers, equipping them with narrative and cultural tools to inspire action in their campaigns, communities, and foster thoughtful dialogue. Together, we aim to shift perspectives on critical issues like democracy, immigration, and health equity, building a more just and inclusive society where everyone can thrive and have a say in the decisions that shape their lives.

During my time as an Advancement Associate I supported the Opportunity Agenda in:• Organizing events in New York and LA to highlight our work.• Prospect Research, Networking, and Portfolio manager. • Managing contracts for our vendors, ensuring deadlines are met. • Managing our state registrations for digital fundraising.• Coordination of meetings between TOA, partners, and funders.•Creation of materials for board members, donors, and others in our network.• Expenses

Corners of Creation specializes in creating playful, sensory entertainment experiences across various mediums such as juggling, comedy, dance, and aerials while blending the mesmerizing beauty of fire, the dynamic brilliance of LED lights, and a unique array of props that take on their own personality and emotion. Performers combine movement, technique, culture and storytelling to create visually captivating works.What started out as a small community of Akron and Cleveland creatives meeting every week to learn together- blossomed into a group of performers that connected with local communities to enhance their events, create communal joy and skill-sharing.Accomplishments:• Featured in a Netflix Original Movie• Featured in The Devil Strip, Akron Arts Now, Akron Life, and the Akron Beacon Journal.• Traveling to 18 different states to teach object manipulation and hoop dance.• Providing creative counsel to a Cirque Du Soleil act from a concept I created.• Performing several variety circus runs at the Cleveland Fringe Festival

Hope Meadows provides an alternative to in-office counseling through equine-assisted psychotherapy and life skills programs. Clients work with horses outdoors with activities such as grooming, feeding, and guiding horses through a variety of obstacles built by the client. This creates a safe and metaphorical space for the client to reflect on themselves and the horse as they address their concerns in treatment. Clients are accompanied by a licensed counselor, and a licensed equine specialist during each session. All sessions are ground-based/non-riding.Accomplishments:•Working with a local courthouse to provide outdoor programming and working with horses in lieu of incarceration. •Partnering with local community foundations, schools, and organizations to provide trainings and obtain mental health resources and housing.•Organizing community events and fundraisers that resulted in goals reached, new relationships, and partners toward the mission.

I supported defense and appellate work in Summit County, Ohio. I also worked with families on immigration, obtaining affordable housing, debtor relief, and youth and elder care. Mr. Ruffner was an excellent mentor, and upon his retirement, I had the opportunity to shift my time towards the arts, education, and non-profit work. I enjoyed the chance to get involved with local politics and provide relief to our clients.Accomplishments:•Writing winning appeals that allowed clients to remain in their intervention programs in lieu of incarceration.•Writing winning appeals and Judicial Releases that removed clients from prison and back with their families. •Several dismissed or overturned cases from thorough review and knowledge of the discovery process.•Providing clients with relief from predatory creditors during complex medical history & procedures.•Helping clients prepare their wills or administer estates, and supporting their planned giving efforts.