Working Together We Can Connect and Build a Stronger FSA

Together We Can Do So Much

So much, indeed.

That Helen Keller quote is taped to the office doors of all my co-workers. We are often just one phone call away from the need to collaborate, cooperate to help an Elder in crisis.

Florida is a big state. And Florida storytellers are a wonderfully diverse group. We vary greatly in age, politics, cultural heritage, and storytelling passions. I would venture to say our diversity rivals that of all other states.

That richness brings challenges, too. 

+ How do we collaborate and cooperate over long distance?

+ How do we show up as a community?

+ How do we learn about and support each other when Florida is over 400 miles long?

+ How do we create kinship among storytellers with varied styles, genres, and goals?

+ Ah! And where are those storytelling performance opportunities?

The FSA board has had many long conversations about this and we have some ideas!
Member benefits will be expanded with the ultimate goal of growing our organization in both numbers and opportunities.                                                                                                      

• There will be two virtual concerts each year, in addition to the Member Showcases at the festival. The virtual showcases will be widely marketed by FSA, creating more exposure for our storytellers.
• Your personal and guild concerts will be promoted in our newsletter, which goes to over 300 readers. We will also highlight events on social media.
• Board members will be traveling around the state to support, and to learn about Florida storytelling events. And to look for member opportunities at venues around the state. Consider doing the same!
• There will be more member storytelling opportunities during the festival.
• The board will participate in fundraisers to increase our Member Grants funds.
• The board is exploring Florida Storytelling House Concerts-featuring FSA members. Let us know if you’d like to be considered!
• Are you interested in an area of applied storytelling? Healing stories? Working with Elders? Early childhood education? Peace? The environment? Tell us! We’ll connect the dots-and the storytellers.
• Storytellers around the state will receive cards with info about FSA membership. Share them with your listeners. We need you to help us grow.

Together we can do so much!

Linda Schuyler Ford
President, Florida Storytelling Association

Performing Storyteller
Case Manager/Elder Advocate

Contact at  StorieHeal@gmail.com and FSA@FlStory.com