Amherst Writers & Artists Press

CONTACT:

PO Box 1076
Amherst, MA 01004
413-253-3307
www.amherstwriters.com

Joan Barberich, Program Coordinator

DESCRIPTION:

AWAP ("Away"; "A Way") sponsors 14 creative writing workshops for women and children in low-income housing projects in Western Mass. Its purpose is to promote "writing as a tool for changing the course of a life." The Massachusetts Cultural Council considers AWAI the best literature program in the State. AWAP was founded in 1993 with the convictions "that every voice is beautiful and powerful; that every person deserves to be heard; that speaking, and knowing one is heard, is a dramatically empowering act; and that empowerment is the first step out of poverty."

And it works. It builds character. AWAP began with a single workshop for low-income women at a housing project in Chicopee, that transformed those women's lives -- several now have Master's degrees, and most have risen out of abusive relationships, welfare and public housing. They also lead AWAP's 14 creative writing workshops -- 8 for women, 6 for children and youth -- held in "projects," schools, and community centers. Finding one's own voice, like charitable giving, can help define one's identity. This is a simple butpowerful idea which, with your support, can save lives.

(1998: HUMAN SERVICES: Children and Youth: General)