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Adopt-a-Teller
Bring the magic of storytelling to your community by hosting a nationally renowned teller through the Adopt-A-Teller Program—completely free (if eligible)! Inspire students and educators with powerful stories rooted in African-centered traditions that enhance learning, creativity, and cultural connection.
The Adopt-A-Teller Program (AATP) is a unique initiative that brings nationally renowned Black storytellers to schools, libraries, and community venues for free (if eligibility criteria are met).
Established in 1991 at the Ninth National Festival of Black Storytelling, AATP has reached over 186,400 students and adults with engaging performances and workshops.
Through storytelling rooted in African-centered traditions, the program offers:
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For Students – Workshops, performances, and residencies that boost listening, critical thinking, oratory skills, self-esteem, and a love for reading.
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For Educators & Community Leaders – Training in storytelling techniques as powerful educational tools to enrich learning experiences.
What is the Adopt-A-Teller Program?
The Adopt-A-Teller model began in 1991 in Horry Co./Georgetown Co. SC at the Ninth National Festival of Black Storytelling under the leadership of NABS 2nd President, Eleanora E. Tate. Since then, over 186,400 students and adults have enjoyed our programs. Through AATP your venue has an opportunity to host an experienced, dynamic, nationally renowned storyteller FREE and without the added expense of providing travel and lodging expenses (if eligible by criteria).
Our tellers have a wealth of stories that celebrate African-centered traditions from around the world. For students, we offer workshops, performances, residencies, and customized programs. Our stories and workshops help improve listening, critical thinking, and oratory skills. They also enhance self-esteem and stimulate the desire to read. For teachers, parents, librarians and community service providers, we offer courses in storytelling and in the use of storytelling techniques as educational tools.
Who Hosts Adopt-A-Tellers?
Schools, libraries, museums, arts councils, colleges & universities, cultural organizations, living residences, community groups and more.
The Venue is required to pick up and return the assigned Teller to and from the host hotel. (The teller needs to be at the venue 40 minutes before the designated start time.)
What are the criteria for Eligibility?
Our programs are FREE due to the generous funding of the National Endowment for the Arts, and the Nora Roberts Foundation,
One or more of the following criteria are necessary:
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primary audience members “underrepresented," (ex. Black or African American)
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Title I school
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primary audience members classified as low income
What Programs are Available?
45-minute Performances:
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Single
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Back-to-Back
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Workshop
Customized programs designed upon request. Selections of dates will be between October 21- October 26 on a first come, first serve basis. October 21 to 23 dates and times are limited.
Free Criteria-Based Programming Rates
A limited number of criteria-based programs for underserved populations are offered at no program cost due to the generosity of our funders, The National Endowment for the Arts and The Nora Roberts Foundation.
There is an application fee of $75.00 per storytelling service.
Upon acceptance of application, NABS AATP administration, will contact you.
