Who started/runs the Strangers Project?
The Strangers Project was founded by Brandon Doman (that’s me!). Aside from occasional collaborations, it’s a one-person effort—I handle everything from collecting and curating stories to running events and sharing them with the world.
When was the Strangers Project started?
The project began in the summer of 2009.
Can I mail you my story or submit it online?
Nope. A core part of the Strangers Project is that all stories are shared spontaneously, in person. While you can read many stories online, every story is collected face-to-face at my story space activations.
Where can I read these stories?
Instagram is the best way to follow the project and the stories, but you can also find stories here at strangersproject.com, TikTok, and facebook.
How can I support this project?
The Strangers Project is only possible with your support. You can make a one-time or recurring donation here.
Supporting the project on social media—by following, sharing, and spreading the word—also makes a big impact!
Where does my donation go?
Every donation directly supports the project—covering materials, event costs, travel for exhibits, and ensuring that the stories remain free and accessible to the public. The Strangers Project is completely community-funded.
How are the stories collected?
Every story is handwritten with pen and paper at a Strangers Project space.
What are the stories about?
Anything and everything. I simply ask people to share an honest experience about what it’s like to be them.
What happens to the stories after they are collected?
Each story is carefully archived, and select stories are shared online or displayed in exhibitions. Because of the sheer number of stories, only a small portion are featured publicly, but every story is preserved as part of the collection.
Can I share or repost stories from the Strangers Project?
Absolutely! Feel free to share posts directly on socials (please be sure to credit and tag the project!)
If you’re interested in using stories in another format (e.g., media features, presentations, or research), please reach out for permission.
Can I bring the Strangers Project to my city/school/organization/event?
Yes! While I normally collect in public spaces, many people and organizations bring the Strangers Project out for activations with their own communities. Learn more at the events page.
Why are you doing this?
There are so many answers to this, and they won’t fit in a single paragraph. At its core, the Strangers Project exists to create a space where people can connect—with the stories of those around them and with their own stories. To put it simply: I do this because someone out there might need it.
What’s your favorite story?
I don’t have a favorite. The beauty of this project is in the incredible diversity of stories. Each one resonates differently, and it’s not about finding “the best” story—it’s about exploring the full range of human experiences.
Can I interview you?
Feel free to send me an email. While I can’t take on every request, I’d love to hear from you!
Can I film in the Strangers Project space?
Visitors are welcome and encouraged to take photos and videos to document their experience and share the space with others. However, fictional works, scripted content, or staged productions are generally not permitted. The Strangers Project is built on real, authentic interactions, and it’s important to maintain the trust of the thousands of people who have shared their stories. Mixing fictional elements with real experiences could lead to confusion about the project’s purpose. If you have a specific idea you’d like to propose, you’re welcome to send it in writing for consideration, but please know that we are highly selective to ensure all representations align with the project’s values.
Where is the Strangers Project based?
New York City—but I take the project to all kinds of amazing places!