● Programs
The Story From Within
Is a program that uses storytelling as a transformative healing modality to reawaken the parts of oneself that have been silenced or dormant due to state violence—particularly the violence embedded in education, incarceration, and the criminal legal system. At its core, this program uses creative expression as a tool for pedagogical engagement. Artists, activists, and advocates serve as guides in discussions about self, community, material conditions, and the sociopolitical issues shaping students' lives. Through interactions with music, literature, visuals, and other art forms, participants refine their ability to use artistic mediums as vehicles for expression, self-regulation, and ultimately, healing.
With this program we serve both the incarcerated and those who fall on the spectrum of criminal legal system involvement. Our primary demographic are youth ages 15 - 24.
● Program Overview
Key Sessions
The Self Portrait
This session begins with an inquiry into self. Students are asked to complete the True Colors exercise, which is designed to help individuals identify their personality type. Throughout The Story From Within program, students lean heavily on their assigned color to provide symbolic elements in their artwork.
In this session, you'll see their color integrated into either the body or the outline of their silhouette. After completing the exercise, students paint their self-portraits, accompanied by a personal prayer centered around one or more of the following themes: love, family, friendship, and/or luck.
The Garden
This session invites students to begin a beginner-level sociopolitical analysis of their neighborhoods. A foundational exercise is their introduction to Jean-Michel Basquiat and his use of symbols to convey complex messages.
Many of these symbols are found in Henry Dreyfuss's Symbol Sourcebook and first appear during the Great Depression during the hobo movement - These symbols communicated information about food, shelter, work, and danger.
The concept of a garden is explored here within the context of collateral impact, community building, and the students’ roles in fostering a healthy community. throughout this program, the rose symbolizes the students themselves.
At this point in the program, students are encouraged to reflect on the implications of their actions—what is worth protecting, and what types of behavior contribute to or reduce community violence. They are asked: What or who do you want to protect? What or who is a threat to your garden?
Grow Where You’re Planted
This session asks students to build on the sociopolitical analysis of their neighborhoods. The concept explored here is framed within the context of community divestment, violence, and systemic oppression. At this stage in the program, students are reflecting on the metaphor of water and its role in fostering growth.
They were asked: What source of water is most important for growth in the communities where you are coming of age?
Program Structure
The Story From Within offers 5- and 10-week programs, each meeting once a week for 90 minutes. Upon completion, students receive a certificate recognizing their commitment and growth.
5 - Week
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10 -Week
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● Contact
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