March News: 826 MSP Goes Virtual!

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826 MSP's Digital Programming

Dear friends,

We hope that our March newsletter finds you healthy and safe at home. Amidst this challenging and unprecedented time, 826 MSP has been pushed to innovate and re-imagine our youth writing, tutoring, and publishing programs. Though our in-person programming is closed from now until at least May 4, 826 MSP is still hard at work! With feedback from the students and families we serve, we have found ways to digitally adapt our existing programming and to respond in the new ways our community needs during this time of crisis. Check out what we've been up to:  

  • After-School Writing Lab: We have distributed writing-activity packets, journals, books, and snacks to many of our ASWL families. There are still supplies in the 826 MSP lobby if you or someone you know is in need. We have also created a brand new writing prompt video and lesson from Ellen, our Program & Volunteer Coordinator! Check out "Writing Prompt: What kind of a thing is hope?" and keep an eye on our YouTube channel for even more videos to keep the creativity (and hope!) flowing while we are all at home.  

  • Writers’ Room at South High School: Though South High is closed, the Writers' Room is still *virtually* open! 826 MSP staff and volunteers are available to review scholarship essays, writing assignments for your distance learning classes, and creative writing from South students. We are exploring options to transform our monthly authors' visits to a virtual format. Stay tuned for more updates! 

  • Young Authors' Book Project: As events and performance opportunities for artists are being canceled out of necessity, we are so glad to still be able to honor our partnership with YABP guest teaching artist, Maria Isa. Maria is a Puerto Rican American hip hop artist and activist whom we have partnered with throughout the 2019-20 school year in YABP. This year, we are working with three classes of English Language Learners at South High to create an anthology around the themes of cultural inheritance, community, and resilience. Look out for the publication of the book this summer! 

  • Young Authors' Council: This semester, we are so excited to officially launch a program we have been dreaming about for a long time. The Young Authors' Council is a leadership opportunity for youth in grades 6–12. In this selective program, a small group of young authors will continue to meet virtually to share writing and develop themselves as leaders in the 826 MSP community. #writeon young leaders!

  • Field Trips at 826 MSP - We are exploring options to hold field trips virtually on YouTube Live later this spring! 

Since opening our doors in 2009, 826 MSP has served more than 7,000 students through writing, tutoring, and publishing programs—all of which are free of charge. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, and all the difficulties this public health crisis entails, we are committed to connecting Twin Cities youth to the creative educational opportunities they need now more than ever. We will keep you updated on the evolution of our digital plan, and we will get through this difficult chapter—together.

All our best,

The 826 MSP Crew

P.S. You can support 826 MSP's digital programming by making a donation today. The 826 MSP team is working from home now, but we are checking the mail weekly if you decide to send in a check to 1915 E. 22nd St, Minneapolis, MN 55404.

Student Spotlight

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In March, we are highlighting the voice of a senior writer at South High School named Jacob who frequents the Writers' Room as a place to refine his fiction, meet authors, and more. Check out our latest blog to learn more about the importance of this space through the eyes of students and our Writers' Room Coordinator, Jeannine.  

Product Spotlight

The Mid-Continent Oceanographic Institute is proud to highlight 826 Digital during this time when distance and online-learning tools are needed more than ever before. Check out the #agoodtimetowrite Remote Learning Kit and know that all of 826 Digital's resources are available on a pay-what-you-can basis. Share widely! 

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Upcoming Events

All 826 MSP in-person programming and events are canceled for the foreseeable future. 

  • 826 MSP will be closed for Spring Break from March 30 - April 3

  • Follow #agoodtimetowrite for videos and online-learning opportunities such as writing prompts and read-alouds from students and celebrities! 

Supporter Spotlight

Though Trivia for Cheaters had to be postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, rest assured that all cheat cash and prizes donated will remain intact until we can safely reschedule the event. Thank you so much for your support!

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Our programs are made possible by community members like you. Give a gift today!

826 MSP