Executive Summary

InsideOut is the oldest and largest literary arts organization in Detroit, a majority Black city and one of the nation’s most segregated. It is widely regarded as the premiere provider of writers-in-the-schools programs, serving 2,500+ K-12 students each year in over 40 schools and community sites. Its success in connecting young people with qualified artistic mentors and opportunities for civic engagement is undeniable: 96% of students report increased self-confidence and participants have been honored with invitations to perform on the Kennedy Center Stage, to present at the National Forum for Youth Investment, and to meet with Michelle Obama at the White House.

With a mission to inspire students to think broadly, create bravely, and share their voices with the wider world, InsideOut empowers young people to control their own narrative and envision a future of their choosing. The need in Detroit is tremendous with a staggering number of youth reporting crisis-level mental health challenges and the community providing few resources to support their social-emotional growth.

InsideOut responds with life-changing in school and afterschool creative writing workshops that empower youth to honor their experiences, articulate their feelings, and demand that their voices be heard. In the process, they hone critical thinking skills and learn to see themselves as leaders capable of influencing positive community change.

Sixty-seven percent (67%) of board members, 64% of staff, and 65% of Teaching Artists are BIPOC and the majority consider themselves lifelong Detroiters. Many are program alumni. All are committed to amplifying youth voice.

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