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

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1. I am tired of being in Jail 2. I am Resonable 3. I like Birthday cake 4. I like to get my way 5. I am outgoing 6. I will be the greatest African American male role model I posibley can.

Anthony
Spring 2021
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1. I am tired, upset, stressed, hungry 2. I am funny, sarcastic, humouros, excting 3. I am wonderful, happy, smiley couragous 4. I am selfish addictive, stubborn, manipulative 5. I am smart, artistic, creative, adventorous 6. I’ll be Everything I need to be

H
Spring 2021
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Life: When life gives you lemons make lemonade Love: Love hate relationship Food: I cant wait to eat my moms food again Advice: Honesty is key Questions: What are you wearing Jake from state farm

Angel
Spring 2021
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I lived in brunswick for most of my life and I moved to medina Me and my friend got the cops called on us for no reason and a weomen was screaming at us about random stuff. Me and my friend were hanging out when a kid was screaming and we went outside and he was so mad at his mom and he stated screaming at her n cussing at her to.

T
Spring 2021
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1. love to see you down, hate to see you up 2. nothing will come easy to you 3. everything happens for a reason 4. I will be a better son

S
Spring 2021
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1. I am beautiful 2. My love is special 3. I am thick and proud of it 4. I want some subway 5. Life’s better with friends 6. Am I just paranoid?

Rachel
Spring 2021
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It was cold outside When I was removed from home Walking in the snow sucks Masonique is pretty She is genuinely funny She is My best friend

Alexus
Spring 2021
Untitled

1. Thief, lier, Druggy, chill, funny, loyal 2. funny, calm, smart, outgoing, caring, loving 3. Kind, Respectful, confident, lucky, willing, Safe 4. I will be Sober, honest, free

N
Spring 2021
Untitled

You throw the ball, You start sprinting to catch it you through a touch down your team is cheering You win the game The team yells in victory.

Grace
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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