Roachdale Library program ‘Telling Your Story’ to begin Saturday

ROACHDALE -- Roachdale Public Library has received a grant to host creative aging programming for older adults titled “Telling Your Story.”

Roachdale is one of 36 libraries to receive training and funding through Lifelong Arts Indiana, a program that promotes arts and creativity services for adults ages 65 and older, and will host “Telling Your Story.” Supported by the Indiana Arts Commission in partnership with the Family and Social Services Administration, the grant will enable the library to install handrails inside its side door, which will be the entrance for this series.

What’s your story? How has your past shaped you? Do your favorite foods and recipes tell a part of your story?

Professional storyteller Portia Sholar Jackson (otherwise known as Momma Portia) will present a free workshop designed to help you tell your story, a perfect opportunity to open some family conversations and share your history.

The program is geared toward seniors 65 and older, and they are welcome to come alone, bring a friend – or you may wish to bring an adult child or family member with you. If you are interested in genealogy, family history or storytelling, this might be a great place to start -- your partner may wish to help you write down or record some of your thoughts as you progress through crafting your story.

Saturdays, Aug. 24 and 31, Sept. 7 and 14 at 1 p.m. (doors will open at 12:45). Though best enjoyed in all four parts, it is OK to attend as your schedule allows.

Designed in four parts, the final Saturday will include a potluck in which participants are invited to share a family recipe and tell your story.

During the second set of workshops, the library will explore your artistic side with Rick Johnston (otherwise known as The Bearded Painter). We will get these sessions scheduled with input from participants on the best times.

Persons can e-mail roachdalepubliclibrary@gmail.com or call (765) 522-1491 to reserve a spot with Momma Portia to craft your story. You may leave a voicemail if the stff is unavailable. Leave your name, phone number and number of people attending with you.

This activity is made possible in part by the Indiana Arts Commission, which receives support from the State of Indiana and the National Endowment for the Arts, and the Indiana Family and Social Services Administrations Division of Aging.