InsideOUT Writers
Our MISSION
The mission of InsideOUT Writers is to reduce juvenile recidivism by providing a range of services that meets the unique needs of currently and formerly incarcerated youth and young adults.
Using creative writing as a catalyst for personal transformation, these young people are empowered with the knowledge and skills necessary to successfully re-integrate into our communities and become advocates for their futures.
Since 1996, we have provided over 26,000 youth with creative writing classes inside juvenile detention facilities
Meet our executive director, Jimmy Wu
A student of IOW's original Writing Program is one of IOW's first Alumni Program participants and is now one of the first ever hired by IOW.
THE CYCLE
The national recidivism rate is 75% but for those who participate in our Alumni Program, less than 10% return to incarceration.
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THE COST
It costs $233,600 per year to incarcerate a youth, while we serve our youth at just $2,272 per year.
THE WRITING
We provide incarcerated youth with creative writing classes and encourage our Alumni to continue through our Writers Circles.
THE CHANGE
Our success reducing recidivism proves that focused resources and non-judgmental community support drive lasting change.