If you’ve ever read the Freedom Writer’s Diary
According to Amanda Edgar, from the City of Portland Public Health Division,
“I think the students (and maybe others) weren’t sure what to expect but the kids received a resounding response from all council members and community members after their individual presentations. These two students were so insightful and moving in what they had written and in how they spoke; it just goes to show the amazing power of listening to youth in our community as they have a lot to say!”
Designed for students aged 14-18, Reconnecting Youth is a curriculum that uses small group skills training to enhance personal competencies and social support resources. Each semester the teacher gives a journal to each teen and they watch the movie “Freedom Writers” and talk about the power of writing. The goals are to increase school performance, and decrease drug involvement and suicide-risk behaviors.
Youth involved in the program note that they enjoy it because it’s a good place to talk without feeling judged, and some begin to make more positive choices about smoking and drinking. One youth stated,
“This group has made a big turnaround. I feel like no one is going to question what I say now – and that it will stay here.”
The anecdotal evidence of programs like this makes you think about the power of writing – and also the power of connections. For more information, please visit Reconnecting Youth.
Other torch-passers:
Wild Thing is Rosa Parks – Don’t Try This At Home
Enjoy!
Do you have a story about kids that make you proud, or adults who are passing the torch? Please let me know and I’ll spread the word on Pass the Torch Tuesday.Former PTT posts.
Tags: *Empowerment, writing, youth
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10:00 pm
Kelly, you’ve always got such great inspirational stories here. It’s just wonderful to read!
Thanks for sharing. 
2:24 pm
It’s so fun to read about the ways so many great leaders, teachers and parents are passing the torch.
Hugs,
Holly