Writing for a Purpose: The Life Lessons Writing Project

Over the years, I have found great comfort in the art of writing. As a matter of fact, writing poetry and short stories have become two of my favorite pastimes. Although I hope one day to enjoy the leisure of writing full-time, I currently enjoy no such pleasure. I split my time working as (1) an adult literacy instructor at several Baltimore-based adult education programs; (2) a consultant for several for profit and non-profit organizations; (3) a writer/editor at a new Internet-based printing company; and (4) a volunteer with two nonprofit organizations in the Baltimore metropolitan area. To say the least, I am a woman with many hats. Still, I must confess that I am probably one of a few people on this planet who actually love her work. I enjoy helping people discover and use the gifts that God has given them.

In August 2008, I will have an awesome opportunity to collaborate with A Step Forward, Inc., Soulcial Solutions, Inc., and TAKE ACTION! Publishing to help participants in a local substance abuse recovery program share their life lessons through writing. For 10 weeks, participants in A Step Forward, Inc. will learn a variety of writing skills, including techniques for writing poetry and creative essays. Additionally, participants will have the opportunity to submit at least one of their writings for publication in an anthology for A Step Forward, Inc.

I am extremely excited about the Life Lessons Writing Project because it has the potential to not only help people transcend their pain into healing, but it provides a constructive outlet for those in recovery to help others break loose from the chains of substance abuse. This project could benefit greatly from your support; it is in need of the following supply donations:

● 45 composition notebooks ● Computer paper ● An easel
● Boxes of pens ● Boxes of pencils ● Flip chart paper
● 10 – 15 dictionaries ● 10 – 15 thesauruses ● Stapler/Staples
● 10 – 15 USB flash drives ● Bags of glue sticks ● Colored Pens
● 45 sheets of oversized poster board paper (any color)
● magazines with pictures that depict people of color in positive ways

If you are able to donate any of the supplies listed above, please contact Lela Campbell of A Step Forward, Inc. at 410-462-6001.

To learn more about the Life Lessons Writing Project, visit www.takeactionpublishing.com.