Has a book ever changed your life? This project, "Books Across the Miles" will help youth charged as adults in federal prison transform their lives through books and writing. Through a "virtual book club" that explores the ways that books and writing are relevant and offers concrete tools to build on new visions, "Books Across the Miles" will help the young men of Free Minds Book Club & Writing Workshop choose positive futures and a successful reentry.
Free Minds Book Club & Writing Workshop introduces the life-changing power of books and writing to youth charged and incarcerated as adults in DC. Because DC inmates are transferred to federal prisons across the country, books, and connections built through books, become even more vital.
"Books Across the Miles" utilizes Free Minds' proven book club model to continue cultivating a strong love for reading among young inmates, allowing them to interact and discuss what they are reading with each other in a way that increases their understanding and appreciation of the book. In this program, members read the same book and engage in a written dialogue through our monthly newsletter, building a network of positive peer support as well as increased motivation for learning.
When youth return home from prison with a passionate desire for education rather than the street life, the community is strengthened. "Books Across the Miles" is an innovative tool in lowering recidivism and building safer, more connected communities.
This project has provided additional documentation in a Microsoft Word file (projdoc.doc).
Support this important cause by creating a personalized fundraising page.
Start a Fundraiser