I’ve become involved with a non-profit organization called WriteGirl. This group of creative, female writers mentors teen girls with the goal of unleashing their young, brilliant, writer minds. It’s such a lovely community and I’m honored to be a part of it.
But I almost wasn’t. I met Keren Taylor, the founder of WriteGirl, early last year. She asked me then to volunteer with WriteGirl, saying they needed more songwriters in their fold. I loved the idea, and I loved what I knew about the group, but I didn’t feel incredibly confident as a songwriter. So I didn’t apply. And before I realized it, nearly a full year had passed since Ms. Taylor’s kind invitation. All because of my self-doubt. And when I think about that, it is quite clear to me that I have more in common with the teen girls being served by WriteGirl than I thought.
Anyhoo – a few months ago I decided to deny my doubt and to try something new. I had helped a couple of adults with their quests to begin writing songs, and the sky hadn’t fallen. In fact, those gals realized they were capable of following their writer dreams and they’re off and running. That’s when I signed up to volunteer with WriteGirl.
I’ve only gone through orientation, but I’m already excited about this group. Do you know that since WriteGirl was founded in 2001 they have a 100% rate of graduating senior mentees going on to college? That is phenomenal, folks. And when you consider that a lot of the girls in the program are facing substantial challenges in life, it is even more impressive. I’ve seen some of these girls reading their work and I’m here to tell you – this organization is making a positive difference in Los Angeles. I can’t wait to get more involved!
For now, I want to tell you about a WriteGirl program: a Poetry Drive! That’s right. Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, y’all. And as the WriteGirl tag line goes, “Flowers wilt. Buy a poem instead.” This is so cool. Basically you go to the site, choose the price and personalization levels for your custom poem, make your purchase (which is really a tax-deductible donation) and that’s it! As long as you order by the deadline (shown on the Poetry Drive web page), your personal poem will be emailed to you, just in time for Valentine’s. Unique and philanthropic. Win-win, I tell ya! (And if you’re not a Valentine sort of person, which I am not, please know that the Poetry Drive will be going on through most of June.)
I hope to update you on my involvement with WriteGirl as the season progresses. In the meantime, I just wanted to share positive info about some wonderful people doing beautiful work in the world. Personally, I am in awe.