Podium RVA
2020 Impact Report

Supporting Youth in the Richmond Area

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Project Write Now

Ages 10-14

Empowers middle school children to discover the value of writing and find their voices in the modern world through fun, focused writing prompts and communication exercises. During programs, youth discuss ideas about identity, culture, and community while learning the basics of different writing forms

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Power of the Pen

Ages 14-19

Provides opportunities for high schoolers to build academic writing and critical thinking skills through advanced writing workshops. Teens develop confidence in their written voice, communication, and public speaking while exploring professional and collegiate writing to prepare for post-graduation life.

0%

OF PODIUM YOUTH

Felt Podium virtual programs were helpful or meaningful

0%

OF PODIUM YOUTH

Noted a gain of confidence in both writing and sharing their work with others

"Writing allows me to examine my thought process, elaborate, and develop ideas that would otherwise be untouched."
- Hank, Open High School
Youth love how writing makes them feel.

"I want to learn more about the topics I know the least in."

0%
of alumni surveyed currently in college
or the workforce
Podium Alumni have attended Virginia Commonwealth University, Virginia Union University, Old Dominion University, University of Virginia, University of Richmond, University of Mary Washington, College of William & Mary, and Mary Baldwin College.
Why Podium?
"The creative possibilities, the accepting atmosphere, the caring mentors."
"I like Podium because it is a great, safe, and creative space to understand myself."
"I enjoy the time I get to spend with my friends and write and express myself."
0%
Of Middle Schoolers
Say writing makes them feel good and positive.

Agree that they improved their writing while in Podium programs.

Feel respected and included at Podium.

"Sometimes, I feel like people will not listen to me. 
But my pencil and paper respect me"

0%

Felt respected and included

0%

Worked on improving the skills they wanted to work on

0%

Encouraged to work with others

Total Number of Youth Served in 2020: 330
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