Our Impact

Our creative writing program is unique, award-winning, and proven to be effective over the short and long term.

We use a research-backed expressive writing model that encourages participants to write freely without editing or evaluating their work. Generative sessions utilize writing activities, reading, discussion, and other exercises to inspire creativity, build confidence, and promote exploration. Participants write together and are given the time and space to write whatever they like and choose what they would like to share. They listen to others’ work and offer each other positive, specific feedback.

By giving participants the time and space for creativity – along with positive feedback, opportunities for publication, and activities that cultivate joy and celebration – we support healing and help build stronger, more empathic communities.

Through guided creative exploration and the sharing of stories, we help people listen across difference to foster empathy and offer new narratives that resist polarization and stereotyping. We honor, uplift, and celebrate all voices, especially those that aren’t typically heard in our society.

Historical Data

As of December 31, 2025…

  • We have hosted 1,538 creative writing groups and circles
  • We have written with 9,734 writers
  • We’ve hosted 282 readings
  • 18,071 people have attended our readings
  • We’ve printed 19,400 copies of our books

Our Programs Have…

  • Served as a model for writing programs across the country
  • Inspired people to complete their GEDs, attend college, stick with treatment programs, transition back to community after incarceration, and break cycles of abuse

Results from 2025

We wrote with 693 people

We hosted 70 creative writing groups and circles

We published two books

  • 95% of participants reported that our program improved their quality of life
  • 95% of participants said that our program improved their confidence or self-esteem
  • 100% of participants said that the program connected them with others or strengthened their sense of community
  • More than two-thirds shared they would use the skills they learned in other professional, personal, or community settings

2025 Testimonials

This workshop has been one of the greatest experiences of my life!

Ana

People liked what I wrote better than I thought they would.

Stacy

If you enjoy writing or just want to give it a try, this is a great way to challenge yourself in a very supportive, low pressure environment.

Dayan

It feels good to take what’s inside of me and share it with others.

Amelie

I feel much more confident in my writing and in my ability to share personal stories.

Carrie

The workshop helped me feel more comfortable to express my emotions.

Dayanara

I’ve gotten to see parts of myself – what I see beauty in, what challenges my logic, where I derive sense of purpose.

Leela
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