Telling stories can change lives! I believe it, I have seen it, and I like to be a part of it. Especially when “it” involves young people.
I volunteer with high school students, helping them cook up memorable word meals. If you’re a Portland local, the following organizations are well worth your support.
I was a Writer in the Schools fellow at Literary Arts and I continue to work with high school kids through the annual College Essay Mentoring Project. It takes place at public high schools in Portland and Gresham. Join me!
INTERNATIONAL YOUTH LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE
I am crazy about this conference, which is a Portland Public Schools program for students who are so-called ESL or Emerging Bilinguals (they are usually trilingual and more). My workshop, Map of Me, is designed to help students access fun new ways of telling their mindblowing stories. If you are an ESL teacher or just need a tasty interactive lesson for EB kids and young adults, feel free to use Map of Me. Lesson plan and slides here.