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.
"I learned about Joy"
"It was empowering and a safe space to express myself"
"I like this program because I get to get things off my chest"
"I needed Writers in Residence, I got to put what was on my mind while no one saying nothing"
"I learned how to cope by using creative writing and there's multiple opportunities to go far with it"
"I know what I need to do to be successful mentally"
Facilitate a smooth transition for youth back into their communities.
I remember when the bullies saw the weakness in you. They bullied you, and I had to do something, so I fought for you cause I knew you couldn’t. You were weak like me but I had a little power in me to fight, honestly I’m always rooting for you, I’ll always want to be there to help you off your knees.
Something that is my light is the [?] my family, who help me get through this time in Jail. My family helps me by giving me positive thoughts and give me something to think about So I get through this time in Jail easier.
Me and Nba youngboy in space vibin. We laughing and rapping about Freedom. He said freedom, freedom everywhere there’s no time in the air. Big moon, small rock, tick tock on the clock. Alone in my mind, but not in the sky, I see my Auntie Approaching and give a loud cry. We laugh and cry, but the tears Are moving because were in the sky.
I come from a small place called the square where there’s not A lot of stuff to do but play b-ball I come from Ray Miller where we play baseball and see the Same people every day. I come from a place where it used to be violent To a peace and quiet neighborhood. I come from a place where a lot of people that was close to you are Gone, but I’m going to be the one who makes it out I come from a place where people don’t think of success and positive things I come from a place where is born at and Lived in the same house before.
To myself, a year from now I have to ask one main question. Are you where you wanna be? If so, then great, but knowing myself now You Probably wont. So what will you do about it? Is your relationship with all your family better? Has your dad physacally said, “Im proud of You?” Is your family outside your own blood still around? Do they still mean everything to you like they do now? Have you found a greater Purpose in life? Just make sure you better yourself and find motivation to move forward. Sincerely, Old Self
I feel as I am floating like clouds. my hair is bouncing up and down as I float in different directions. I looked up and my heart dropped. In front of me was my grandpa bob. How could this be true? He already died on december 27 2011. Now that he is back in my life Imma make the most out of it. We are both reunited and light as Air.
I come from my grandmothers love. I come from the city of youngstown I come from food stamps & welfare I come from one of the worst parts of youngstown I come from raising my brother I come from an addicted mother I come from disappointment But I’m going to thrive regardless and break the Chain
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!
Life – Life is one of my strongest values Love – The love word is as strong as the hate word Food – My favorite type of food is seafood Advice – Just keep pushing. Never give. Questions – Who’s really there for me?
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Created by Paul Gehrig
