Why we exist

The Data Storytelling Collective (DSC) exists to maximize the positive impact of human service nonprofits on the communities they serve • by strengthening how they leverage data via strategy, management, and use • by connecting their data storytellers with a peer learning community.

Our backstory

The DSC was founded as an independent 501(c)(3) organization in August 2025. What has become the DSC began years prior as a dream of creating an in-person learning community for data professionals at nonprofit organizations, specifically those serving Chicago's West Side. That dream was first realized when a small group of nonprofit data folks began gathering in what we called the “Data Storytelling Cooperative” in June 2023. 

This image comes from the first Data Storytelling Cooperative event flyer. Here's how that invitation defined our purpose, which still rings true today: "This is a space for us nonprofit data folks to foster connections with one another, explore our common data struggles, and share our dreams, schemes, and little victories. Together, we can find better ways to use data to celebrate the great work happening in our organizations."  

As the Cooperative continued meeting and growing in 2023, 2024, and into 2025, the needs began exceeding what we could meet as an informal group. Establishing the Data Storytelling Collective as an independent entity allows us to more fully serve nonprofit data storytellers in Chicago and eventually establish more in-person learning communities beyond the Windy City.

The opportunity is compelling 

  • There are over 5,000 human service organizations in the greater Chicago metro area alone, with billions of dollars in combined annual revenue. 

  • Nonprofit data storytelling requires effective data strategy, management, and use. When asked, over 80% of our fall 2025 DSC participants said each of these domains is a priority for their role. 

  • Only 16% of our participants rated their organization as effective across all three domains (strategy, management, and use). When it comes to data storytelling, nonprofits have a long way to go. 

The solution is collaboration

  • If nonprofits want to use data effectively, there are no quick fixes or copy/paste solutions. Each human service nonprofit organization has a very unique history, mission, structure, programmatic context, and set of current data practices. 

  • The nonprofit data professionals who participate in the DSC are the experts. When asked to identify one strength area within our framework, all nine focus areas was selected by at least one DSC participant, and 84% rated themselves as proficient on at least one domain. We can leverage the expertise that's in our midst, in addition to that of external individuals and organizations. 

Why our participants say they’re excited to become members 

“This is really unique... I like the community and access to people in the field.”

“[It's a] great space to talk to data folks and get ideas from other organizations.”

“I believe it will benefit all organizations if data professionals create more agreement on best practices.”

“I'm still somewhat early in my career and feel like there a lot of technical skills I could develop as a result of this group.”

“There are not enough opportunities for data people to connect about the wins and struggles of this work. Those that do exist are often centered around a specific funder or program, not necessarily as broad or inclusive.”

“There aren’t many spaces like this and I think it’s so important!”