I attended the National Association of Black Storytellers (NABS) 2 years ago. It opened my eyes to the traditions of oral storytelling that existed all around me. I heard poetry, stories and music that expanded my knowledge of what storytelling can be. I met Black storytellers of all ages and styles from all across the United States. However, there were not many tellers from Appalachia like me. I left with the desire to bring more Black Appalachian tellers to the conference.

This has been my work for the last three years. My goal is to organize Black tellers in Appalachia. I have produced storytelling concerts with local tellers in Tennessee Appalachia. This year, I would like to bring the tellers that I have worked with to the national stage. I believe it will motivate them to organize at home, using the traditions and customs of NABS.

The National Association of Black Storytellers are holding their annual conference in Buffalo, NY October 23-27, 2024. We are raising funds to bring Black Appalachian Storytellers to the conference. So far, we have raised $2500. These funds were used to pay for 7 flights for 7 tellers, including 1 youth teller. But we still have a way to go. The goal is to send 10 tellers, most who have never experienced the power of NABS.

10 tellers need flights (7 flights have been purchased so far.)

10 tellers need lodging

10 tellers need bus passes for local travel

10 tellers need NABS Conference registration at about $360 each.

Your support will help our independent group of tellers travel to the conference. We are artists working in Appalachia. This trip will offer a rich cultural experience that will add to our professional development as storytellers.