WHAT WE DO AND WHY

Writing Through is an international educational US-registered non-profit which partners with local organizations to provide specially developed workshops where creative writing is used as a tool to develop thinking skills, creativity, language fluency and self-esteem. Writing Through is non-sectarian and operates in all communities that can benefit from our work, creating spaces which aim to amplify every voice.

The Why

Research shows that 30% to 50% of school systems globally rely on rote memorization. Yet research also shows that today’s world needs engaged and contributing citizens who are able to think conceptually and critically, know what they believe, and have the confidence and poise to stand up and say it in their own voices. These skills, which are so crucial to intellectual enrichment and personal advancement, are not always taught in school systems. At Writing Through, we know that creative language training and exposure to the arts creates new perspectives and opens minds, all of which lead to self-esteem. The combination of creative thinking, language skills and self-esteem will open minds, one poem, one story at a time.

The What

Writing Through uses a unique pedagogy of in-person and online workshops, which focus on creative writing of poetry, stories, and journal entries. We partner with local organizations to bring this skills acquisition program to the at-risk and marginalized segments of their communities. Our process includes a specially designed, unique format of proven techniques such as themes, prompts, brainstorming, and presentation skills. We break down barriers between participant and teacher while establishing mutual respect, thus creating a safe space for learning that encourages participants to think in new ways, investigating and sharing their dreams and experiences. Workshop Facilitators are trained by Writing Through and are fluent in either English or Spanish. If workshop participants use the workshop language as a second or third language, we utilize the in-class assistance of a local teacher. In this way, our programs can be adapted to students with a wide range of language abilities. This also supports our goal of long-term sustainability through local teacher training.

Our standard workshop comprises five 90 minute sessions, but we work within our partner’s schedules to best fit their availability and their needs. We also offer single-session taster workshops, or short-form adapted workshops if needed. One of our specialties is tailoring bespoke workshops to fit specific needs of our partners. If you have a group that could benefit from working with Writing Through, we are happy to discuss the best fit and develop a workshop together.

As we strengthen our relationships with our partners, we are often approached about needs within their communities. Therefore, we have developed a teacher training course, where we work with teachers to help them incorporate Active Learning and Creativity into their classrooms. We also have an Early Learners program to help encourage imaginative play and creativity in children as young as 3 years old, using a blend of story books and adapted Writing Through techniques. Please contact [email protected] for additional information about either program.