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Our 2026 Grants Received
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Welcome to NABS

We encourage you to join, renew, donate, and support our mission.
Your contributions play a vital role in preserving and promoting our significant stories, ensuring they continue to educate and inspire. Together, we can foster a brighter future, one story at a time.

The National Association of Black Storytellers, Inc.

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The NABS Store

You can register for the festival by clicking the green button. You can purchase your bus

tour tickets and T-shirts from inside the store below.

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Click the arrow to the right of the T-shirt to see what else is in our store at any given time.

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Social Media

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National Youth

Program

NABS Youth Program empower ages 8-18 through storytelling, literacy, enrichment, and public speaking. Designed to build confidence and communication skills, our programs connect youth with cultural traditions and creative expression. Find an affiliate near you and help inspire the next generation of storytellers!

DONATE

Fuel Tradition

FESTIVAL

2026 - Rhode Island

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Mother Mary Carter Smith & Mama Linda Goss

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Honoring our Founders

Esteemed storytellers Mary Carter Smith of Baltimore, MD and Linda Goss of Philadelphia, PA are the founders of the National Association of Black Storytellers, Inc. They conceived the idea in 1982 to give more opportunities for African American storytellers to be heard and for more of the rich heritage of the African Oral Tradition to be shared and preserved.

We'd Love to Hear From You

Whether you're a storyteller, supporter, student, or simply curious, your voice matters to us. Reach out with questions, ideas, or collaborations. We welcome all who believe in the power of story to preserve culture, uplift communities, and inspire change. Just like our ancestors gathered in circles to listen and learn, we invite you to connect and continue the tradition.

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By submitting this form, you agree to be contacted by the National Association of Black Storytellers, Inc. (NABS). Your information will be kept confidential and will never be sold or shared outside our organization. Submissions may be reviewed for follow-up, collaboration, or inclusion in future programming. All communications are treated with care, respect, and cultural sensitivity.

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2024

This year marked a moment of expansion and renewal. With partnerships and fresh leadership, NABS deepened its commitment to intergenerational storytelling, digital accessibility, and nationwide engagement. Our stewardship reflects a community-driven vision that honors tradition.

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2023

In 2023, NABS proudly celebrated impact of our signature programs. From youth storytelling circles to senior legacy initiatives, we remained rooted in service and cultural preservation. Our financials reflect the generosity of donors and the resilience of a growing national network.

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2022

The work of 2022 centered on connection and continuity. As we emerged from pandemic disruptions, NABS prioritized safe gatherings, hybrid programming, and healing through story. This report shows how we upheld our mission with care, integrity, and cultural reverence.

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2021

2021 was a year of reflection, resilience, and reinvention. Amid ongoing global challenges, NABS found new ways to uplift our voices and sustain our sacred traditions. Our financial transparency demonstrates the trust placed in us by communities, funders, and future generations.

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Previous Year 990s

The Authentic Voice of Blackstorytelling
National Association of Black Storytellers, Inc.

(410) 947-1117
a 501(c)(3) organization Co-Founded by Mother Mary Carter Smith and Mama Linda Goss - P.O. Box 67722, Baltimore, MD 21215

​​​©2025 National Association of Black Storytellers. Original website designed by Be Light Media LLC. Revised and Managed by NABS Inc.

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