We’re a 12-week creative writing workshop that extends to correctional facilities and communities impacted by violence.
The tailored curriculum includes:
— Creative writing instruction
— Short story reading and discussion
— Creative prompts to strengthen writing skills
The process of drafting, editing, and revising encourages critical thinking, and communication, and self-expression — skills essential for rehabilitation and reintegration into society upon release.
The impact:
— Brings healthier family relationships through improved communication
— Supports personal and professional development
— Promotes restorative justice and literacy growth
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.
Indiana Prison Writers Workshop is the first in-prison creative writing program in the nation to offer ‘Emerging Technologies: Introduction to Responsible AI in Creative Writing’ as part of one of its 12-week sessions. Our surveys indicate that there is a 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.