Story Sit-In

My mission is to bring literacy and connection to diverse communities, to connect people of all races, ethnicities, religions, genders, and ages across community boundaries to instill a sense of belonging and cultural pride.

For the past four years, I have been visiting an apartment complex that's home to many immigrant families. I pull a wagon down the street in the summer and early fall and tell stories to families and give books to the children. I expanded Story Sit-In this past summer to include pop-up storytelling circles in front of my Hertel Ave home. In 2021, I introduced people on the street to harp playing, spinning on a spinning wheel, and cello, as well as stories and connection. This year's goal is to continue these venues as well as add other locations. To make this possible, I would like to add another artist/storyteller. Also to pay a stipend to visiting artists, like the cello player.

The BIG goal is to encourage participants to share their stories and cultures at Story Sit-Ins.

Give-away books for Story Sit-In are all donated, but I always need to purchase some activity books and crayons, and board books. In addition, I would like to hire a second artist to help expand the program, and advertise for pop-up events. With $1000, I can purchase books and crayons, as well as pay two to three storytellers/artists for eighteen weeks, or 36 Story Sit-In events!

Financé par Buffalo, NY (February 2022)