Young Storytellers Launches Jamie Tarses Fund to Honor Late TV Executive and Boost Student Writing Programs

Young Storytellers, a Los Angeles-based nonprofit that brings entertainment industry volunteers into public schools to mentor students in creative writing, has established the Jamie Tarses Fund in memory of the influential television executive. Tarses, who died in 2021, was the first woman to head a broadcast network entertainment division, serving as president of ABC Entertainment and later as a top executive at NBC. Her groundbreaking career and passion for storytelling made her a natural namesake for the fund, which will support Young Storytellers' core programs, including its signature Script to Stage initiative where students write original scripts performed by professional actors. The nonprofit, founded in 1997, partners with Los Angeles Unified School District elementary, middle, and high schools, reaching thousands of students annually. Volunteers from the entertainment community and beyond guide students through the writing process, helping them build literacy skills, confidence, and self-expression. The Jamie Tarses Fund aims to expand these efforts, ensuring more young people have access to creative writing opportunities, particularly in under-resourced schools. Tarses was known for championing diverse voices and nurturing talent, values that align with the organization's mission to empower students through storytelling. By honoring Tarses, Young Storytellers also highlights the importance of representation in media and the need for industry professionals to give back to the communities that shape future storytellers. The fund will accept donations from individuals and companies, with proceeds directly supporting program operations, volunteer training, and student showcases. As the entertainment industry continues to evolve, initiatives like this help bridge the gap between Hollywood and local classrooms, fostering the next generation of writers and creators.