About Us
About Us - Folktellers for Literacy Program
The Folktellers for Literacy Program is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to the transformative power of storytelling. We empower young people to craft and share their own stories, fostering literacy, creativity, and self-expression while creating lasting community connections.
A Shared Vision
Folktellers for Literacy began with two creators who share one belief: whoever holds the story has the power.
Josef Bastian grew up in the Midwest as a reluctant reader but a lover of books. He enjoyed sharing stories long before he became a teacher and instructional designer. Josef created the Folktellers Universe that anchors the literacy program, and has spent the past two decades designing learning for classrooms and companies alike.
Stephen Sadler grew up in Nottingham, England, drawing invented worlds and taking things apart to see how they worked. He still does both. He writes novels, produces for film and streaming, and builds the digital tools this program runs on — work that has taken him through several companies and into corners of entertainment, aerospace, and automotive engineering along the way.
In 2019 the two of them piloted the program in Royal Oak schools. In 2020 the pandemic stopped it cold. In 2025 entrepreneur Paul Glantz stepped in to help bring it back, and Folktellers for Literacy became a 501(c)(3) charity so students could benefit and donors could support the cause directly.
The vision hasn't changed. Kids shouldn't just learn to read a story — they should get to make one, finish it with a team, and watch it on a big screen. Books, filmmaking, and a public premiere: that combination is the program, and it adds up to literacy, confidence, and a moment that tells a kid their story matters.
The nonprofit runs the program every school year. A new group of elementary and middle school students reads, creates, and premieres their films. Qualifying schools receive kits at no cost, keeping the program free to students and families.
Folktellers for Literacy started in Michigan. Other states are next.
Our Mission and Values
The Folktellers for Literacy Program is grounded in mutual values that drive our work:
- Accessibility to the Arts: We believe every young person deserves access to creative opportunities, regardless of background or resources.
- Importance of Literacy: We champion literacy as a foundation for self-expression, critical thinking, and lifelong learning.
- Celebration of Diverse Voices: We honor the unique perspectives of every student, creating space for stories that reflect the richness of their experiences.
- Safe, Inspiring Spaces: We foster environments where young people feel empowered to share their stories with confidence.
The Impact
Through this program, students gain hands-on experience in storytelling, from crafting narratives to seeing them brought to life. The program culminates in a powerful moment: the chance to have their work showcased on the big screen. This unforgettable experience not only celebrates their creativity but also instills a sense of accomplishment and belonging. By blending expertise in storytelling with cinematic experience, we create a unique opportunity for young people to see their voices amplified in a professional setting, leaving a lasting impact on their lives and communities.
The Folktellers for Literacy Program is more than a creative outlet—it’s a movement to inspire, connect, and empower the next generation of storytellers.