Unlocking Creativity to Transform Lives

Writers in Residence teaches creative writing to youth who are incarcerated to empower their voices and assist in their re-entry into society.
our model

Creativity as Therapy

Address Unresolved Trauma
Oftentimes youth enter the juvenile justice system with unresolved emotional trauma.
Creative Writing Workshops
Sessions are facilitated by passionate university students who create a safe space for youth to express themselves and work through difficult emotions through engaging prompts.
Ongoing Relationship Building
The real journey begins with re-entry. Youth are often forced to return to unstable environments, and we serve as a support system for them as they embark on this chapter.
Youth Enters Juvenile Justice System
Oftentimes youth enter with unresolved emotional trauma.
Creative Writing Workshops
Facilitated by passionate university students who create a safe space for youth to express themselves and work through difficult emotions through engaging prompts.
Ongoing Relationship Building
The real journey begins with reentry. Youth are often forced to return to unstable environments. We serves as a support system that youth can always return to.
impact

What We've Accomplished

12
separate cohorts across the state of Ohio
1344
residents participated in creative writing workshops
826
pieces of creative writing supported
2146
chapbooks distributed
testimonials

What Residents Say

"I learned about Joy"
Resident at Medina JDC
"It was empowering and a safe space to express myself"
Resident at Seneca County YC
"I like this program because I get to get things off my chest"
Resident at Medina JDC
"I needed Writers in Residence, I got to put what was on my mind while no one saying nothing"
Resident at Seneca County YC
"I learned how to cope by using creative writing and there's multiple opportunities to go far with it"
Resident at Montgomery County CAS
"I know what I need to do to be successful mentally"
Resident at Medina JDC
New

Reentry Mentorship Initiative

Facilitate a smooth transition for youth back into their communities.

Learn More
artifacts

Works of Creative Writing

Untitled

Im Lost right Now, sike I got it Big Trees with No Leafs Im too cool For school Life is Boring in Jail

J
Spring 2021
Untitled

1. I am nice but crazy competitive. 2. All are unique few are original. 3. they never said “I love you.” 4. Am I useful or just used. 5. I will be loved more than ever!

Keithlynn
Spring 2021
Untitled

Welp right Now life is trash But look at the bright side I go home in 36 Dayz an my life will Finally be Back. Their is always parts in life that’s Not Fair Nor Fun But at the end of the day Jus know it will be OKAY!!! ☺

J
Spring 2021
Untitled

It was hot. Everyone was leaving. The score was 14 to 36. I was happy My Nephew was in my left arm and my helmet was in my right. The gates were filled with people leaving. My girl was by my sister. My girl kept saying I looked good. I changed outta my cleats to my Jordans

Harris
Spring 2021
Untitled

They think I’m a risk They think I’m a menace But it’s all talk cuz they never seen me outside these walls They say I got whip skills and they just seen me burn him There gasing me up and were bumping the beamer yeah I’m out now and I ain’t got no bracelet so Best believe I’m hype cant nothing faze me

R
Spring 2021
Untitled

The family is solid as a rock we always will have respect and love for one another Even though our music is quite different The honesty between us never fails we may fight as most families do but at the end of the day we help each other make our dreams come true The family is solid as a rock.

J
Spring 2021
Untitled

I was heartless til I meet Timya and fell in love and now she is my sunshine on a cloudy day I like chips with dip on the block I see all the crips licking their lips tryna get a kiss

Masonique
Spring 2021
Untitled

I went to the dentist to get my teeth cleaned, afterwards I got to pick a reward and at that moment I seen the ring toss baby game I knew instantly my little sister would love it so that’s what I chose.

Brayden
Spring 2021
Untitled

me and my homie was at my house when dis girl wanted to come over and she knew i was home and my friend lied to her saying i got locked up.

D
Spring 2021
Read MOre

Frequently Asked Questions

Is your mentoring program effective?
What if I have been incarcerated? Can I still be a mentor?
How long does it take for me to get matched with a mentee?
How long does the mentoring relationship last?
What is the time commitment for mentoring?
What are the requirements to be a mentor?
Do I need to have writing experience to be a mentor?
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Created by Paul Gehrig

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