One of the most valuable sources of preserving the memoirs of families and communities has always been the art of storytelling. Orcas Storyfest offers a chance to share memories, family histories and personal adventures through a workshop: “Telling from the Family Treasures.”

In the workshop, participants will be asked to use a family photo, heirloom, hand-me-down or every day household object to stimulate a family story. A sewing thimble may prompt a family story about ancestors immigrating to America with only a few objects in a suitcase.

In this two-hour workshop, professional storyteller Doug Banner, founder of the Bellingham Storytelling Guild, will conduct a series of processes using ordinary objects that will lead participants on a journey down memory lane or to an entire road map into family legacies. Banner has produced a number of community storytelling projects and conducted story interviews that documented stories of entire communities.

In addition to a treasure, participants should bring a pad and pencil. The workshop is Friday, Aug. 7 at 1 p.m. at the Senior Center. A of $5 to $25 is requested for the food and travel fund for Orcas Storyfest visiting storytellers. More information is available by calling 376-8705.