InsideOut Literary Arts Project
InsideOut Literary Arts Project is Detroit’s largest and oldest literary non-profit organization, committed to fostering the literary and academic skills of young people through creative writing programs.[1] Founded in 1995, the organization has grown to serve over 100 classrooms and community sites annually, impacting the lives of thousands of Detroit students.
History
InsideOut began with a simple observation by Dr. Terry Blackhawk, a Detroit Public Schools teacher, who noticed the transformative power of having a writer-in-residence in her classroom at Mumford High School.[2] Inspired by the experience, she co-founded InsideOut with initial funding from Bob Shaye and the Four Friends Foundation. The name “InsideOut” was chosen by Dr. Blackhawk’s students, reflecting the idea of bringing inner thoughts and experiences into the world through writing.[3] The organization’s early work focused on providing writers-in-the-schools programs, bringing professional writers into classrooms to work directly with students.
Over the years, InsideOut has expanded its reach significantly, growing from a single school to 27 schools across the Detroit area, reaching over 5,000 students.[4] This growth has been accompanied by increasing recognition, including a feature on PBS NewsHour and a performance at the Kennedy Center. In 2009, InsideOut received the National Arts and Humanities Youth Program Award from the White House, presented by Michelle Obama, acknowledging its impact on youth arts programming.[5] More recently, in 2024, the organization received a $2 million gift from philanthropist MacKenzie Scott through her Yield Giving Open Call, demonstrating continued confidence in its program.[6]
Culture
At its core, InsideOut’s work centers on the belief that every voice matters and that there is power in sharing personal experiences through writing.[7] The organization’s mission is to inspire and equip young people to think critically, create bravely, and share their voices with the world.[8] This is achieved through creative writing programs that emphasize experimentation with words and the development of authentic youth voice. InsideOut’s values include growth, creativity, youth voice, and equity, guiding its approach to programming and community engagement.
The organization’s impact extends beyond the development of literary skills. Teachers report that InsideOut’s programs lead to greater student engagement with writing and strengthen students’ oral communication skills, with 94% of teachers affirming this impact.[9] By providing a platform for self-expression, InsideOut empowers young people to transform themselves and their communities. The organization fosters a supportive environment where students can explore their identities, address social issues, and develop a sense of agency through the written word.
Programs
InsideOut offers a variety of creative writing programs tailored to different age groups and learning environments. These programs are led by professional writers who work directly with students in classrooms and community settings.[10] The programs emphasize process over product, encouraging students to experiment with different forms of writing and to find their own unique voices. InsideOut’s approach is rooted in the belief that creative writing can be a powerful tool for personal growth, academic achievement, and social change.
The organization’s programs are designed to be accessible to all students, regardless of their background or skill level. InsideOut prioritizes equity in its programming, ensuring that all young people have the opportunity to participate in creative writing activities. The organization also provides professional development opportunities for teachers, equipping them with the skills and resources to integrate creative writing into their curriculum. The records of InsideOut Literary Arts Project are documented at the Walter P. Reuther Library at Wayne State University, providing a historical record of the organization’s activities.[11]
Community Engagement
InsideOut Literary Arts Project actively engages with the Detroit community through public events and partnerships with other organizations. The organization hosts poetry readings, workshops, and other events that showcase the work of its students and writers.[12] These events provide a platform for young people to share their voices with a wider audience and to connect with other members of the community.
In 2024, InsideOut collaborated with Detroit City Walls to create a new mural along Avenue of Fashion, celebrating the organization’s 30th anniversary.[13] This mural serves as a visual representation of InsideOut’s commitment to empowering young people and transforming communities through the written and spoken word. The organization also partners with schools, libraries, and other community organizations to expand its reach and impact.
Detroit Arts and culture in Detroit Education in Detroit Non-profit organizations based in Detroit