We’re a 12-week creative writing workshop that extends to correctional facilities and communities impacted by violence. Program participation is associated with a 38 percent reduction in prison conduct violations.
The tailored curriculum includes:
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- Creative writing instruction
- Short story reading and discussion
- Creative prompts to strengthen writing skills
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The process of drafting, editing, and revising encourages critical thinking, communication, and self-expression — skills essential for rehabilitation and reintegration upon release.
The impact:
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- Brings healthier family relationships through improved communication
- Supports personal and professional development
- Promotes restorative justice and literacy growth
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Writing support continues for alumni through public speaking opportunities, community storytelling events, and publishing on the IPWW blog — helping formerly incarcerated writers share their voices beyond prison walls.
Prison Writers Workshop is the first in-prison creative writing program in the nation to offer an AI instruction component. ‘Emerging Technologies: Introduction to Responsible AI in Creative Writing’ is part of one of its 12-week sessions. Our surveys indicated growing interest among IPWW’s incarcerated students to learn more about the intersection of creative writing and AI.
“Offered in Alabama correctional prisons, this program gives a unique opportunity for personal growth. Classes contribute significantly to a safer, more constructive prison environment.”
– Randy Walker, president of CORE, a partner of Alabama Department of Corrections (ADOC)
“This essential program helps Indiana’s incarcerated find their purpose and allows a space for healing. It’s become important for successful reintegration into society.”
– Rob Carter, former commissioner, Indiana Department of Correction (IDOC), retired sheriff
STUDIES/DATA
In 2019, the IU Public Policy Institute Center for Health & Justice Research conducted a one-year process evaluation on Indiana Prison Writers Workshop. View the IPWW Brief below and Full Report.