How to SoJo #2: Tiny experiment, big surprise

Two weeks ago we launched this LinkedIn-only newsletter on the backs of two desires. First, we were seeking a place where we could tell the world about our full newsletters because people like them and we suspect more journalists and thoughtful news-seekers would find them useful. Second, we want to celebrate all the people whose solutions journalism creativity actually fills the newsletters. And if we could do those things while showing our appreciation to the vibrant LinkedIn world that's sprouted up around solutions journalism, then everyone wins, right?

We figured a few hundred people would subscribe and we'd build from there, but instead more than four thousand people have subscribed already. We're stunned and grateful and thrilled. Also maybe there's a little stage fright too with such a big crowd. But we'll keep it moving in gratitude. Thank you.

Something you want in here? Questions? Drop us a DM or email [email protected]. On we go!

?? The May 1 edition of Above the Fold was dedicated almost entirely to the winners and honorable mentions of the first ever Solutions Journalism Network Awards. It was quite a journey to get there too, with an advisory committee, 42 judges, and a LOT of time put in (especially by Holly Wise ). If you want the awards' tale, links to all the recognized stories, an opportunity to study SoJo abroad with Stephanie Jane Capper , and some cool news from Report for America — check out this issue.

??? We are teaming with the Center for Cooperative Media for a huge equity training. That leads off the May 8 Above the Fold. Facilitated by Francine Pope Huff and Jaisal N. , "Beyond the Ballot" will help you bring an equity framing to your coverage of elections and democracy. Do this!

• Then, we had to include the ripples coming from the work of the Mental Health Collaborative, a collection of nine student newsrooms working together as part of SJN's Student Media Challenge. Remarkable work that local media is now covering.
• Plus, Documented and The Keene Sentinel are both hiring. (Thanks Max Siegelbaum and Olivia Casey for sharing those jobs!) The Nova Institute for Health has major fellowship open for U.S. journalists that invites the solutions-minded to apply. You can also meet SJN's new climate director, find the newest Portuguese-language book about SoJo, and learn about how New York Amsterdam News turned a solutions reporting project into new revenue and reinvigorated relationships.

Read the whole thing.

The Response didn't come out last week for personal reasons, but if you're longing for solutions stories at the moment, you can enjoy the latest editions of Solutions Worth Sharing.

?? In the democracy edition, you'll find the Bolts story on how activists in Kentucky are finding some success restoring voting rights for the formerly (and even sometimes currently) incarcerated. Get that here.

?? In the climate edition, discover the story from Elizabeth Ouzts about the group saving North Carolinians money on energy costs through home improvements. Catch that one here.

That's the news for this fortnight. We'll see you in two weeks for more. Thank you again for making this work creative, fulfilling, and oh-so-much fun.