Izidor Story team

Who we are

Izidor Story uses film to create meaningful change for vulnerable children and families, across child welfare and beyond.

At the center of our work is IZIDOR, a 30-minute film designed not just to be watched, but to spark conversation.

We pair the film with guided discussion and practical tools, forming a story-driven platform that helps turn that experience into reflection, connection, and next steps.

How it works

We use a simple, intentional model:

  • Shared Experience — A 30-minute film creates a shared emotional experience, giving people a common starting point.
  • Guided Conversation — Structured discussion helps people process what they’ve seen and relate it to their own experiences.
  • Next Steps — Clear pathways turn reflection into action, whether that’s learning, engagement, or support.

Why it’s different

Most training and awareness efforts rely on statistics and information. While important, they can be difficult to engage with and retain.

Feature-length films can create emotional impact, but they are often too long to fit into real-world settings where time for discussion and application is limited.

Our approach solves both challenges. IZIDOR uses story to engage people on a human level, and at 30 minutes, it fits into a single setting while leaving room for meaningful conversation and next steps.

What you get

We provide a complete, ready-to-use experience built around IZIDOR.

Each partner receives access to the film for their event or setting, along with structured facilitator and participant discussion guides that turn the viewing into a guided experience.

We offer distinct guide formats for different settings:

  • Event-in-a-Box programs to pair with your own initiative, such as recruitment or community engagement
  • Training resources for caregivers and professionals
  • Support group frameworks for youth and adoptees
  • Classroom materials for educators and students

Who it’s for

This model is designed to work across a wide range of settings:

  • Child welfare systems, including foster care and adoption
  • Organizations serving vulnerable children and families
  • Schools and universities
  • Faith-based and community organizations
  • Support groups for youth and adoptees

Our goal

We aim to strengthen belonging and connection for vulnerable children and families, wherever they are. We do this by helping people move beyond awareness into real conversation and meaningful action.

Team behind the work

Sarah Padbury

Sarah Padbury

Creative Director, Izidor Story LLC
Writer and Producer of IZIDOR

Sarah Padbury is the writer and producer of IZIDOR, an adoptive mother of seven, and a former foster parent. She held leadership roles with Project 1.27, helping design foster parent recruitment systems, training programs, and church-based engagement strategies. She now leads the work of Izidor Story, shaping IZIDOR into a scalable platform for training, recruitment, and support. 

Izidor Ruckel

Izidor Ruckel

Producer and Subject of IZIDOR

Izidor’s lived experience as a former Romanian orphan is the foundation of the story and shapes the work’s focus on helping vulnerable children. He shares his story to help ensure no child has to endure what he experienced, bringing awareness, understanding, and a voice to children in vulnerable situations.

Claes Jonasson

Claes Jonasson

Creative and Digital Strategy

Claes Jonasson leads how the IZIDOR platform connects with audiences and functions online. With decades of experience across film, design, and web, he builds integrated systems that support storytelling, engagement, and growth.