Info for Organizations

The owner/instructor works with youth (ages 12-17), adults, and seniors. She specializes in vulnerable and marginalized populations, including learners who:

• Have a barrier that might make it difficult to participate in traditional feedback-based writing groups, including:

  • Known or suspected developmental/learning disability (ADHD, autism, dyslexia, etc.)

  • Known or suspected neurodivergence/mental health concern (anxiety, depression, etc.)

  • English as a Second Language

• Want to improve their wellbeing and/or learn to express themselves

• Are shy/introverted and don’t want to share work or read out loud

Most creative writing lessons focus on the “feedback” writing model. You share your writing with others in the class, you hear their responses, and you learn from that feedback. This is a fantastic way for people who are passionate about writing to find a community, improve their skills, and meet their goals. Write It First isn’t trying to replace it!

However, as the owner has learned, this model isn’t accessible for everyone. Many people face barriers like shyness, anxiety, introversion, neurodivergence, disability, ESL, and more. The expectation to share writing with the group might stop them from signing up for, or meaningfully participating in, a traditional writing class. Even optional sharing sessions often make people feel internal pressure to participate or shame from not doing so.

That’s where the “generative” writing model comes in. These classes are low-pressure with no homework, grading, or public feedback. When participants learn to write for themselves and not for others, they can build their skills naturally, find joy in the process, and make it a regular practice!

This model follows the methodology of New Shoots, a Vancouver-based creative writing mentorship program which has helped hundreds of students since 1985. Erin (Write It First’s owner) served as coordinator of this program for three years while she completed her Creative Writing graduate degree.

Creative writing can improve lives in so many ways! Here are a few:

Mental Health & Self-Care

Writing lets learners get their feelings out in a safe, healthy way. This helps them cope with stress, process difficult experiences, and see the changes in themselves over time. It’s also wonderful for confidence and self-esteem.

Brain Health

Research shows that a regular writing practice strengthens concentration, memory, problem-solving, and mental flexibility. For children and youth, it helps develop new brain pathways; for adults and seniors, it protects those pathways and reduces cognitive decline.

Physical Health

The brain helps the body, and creative writing can actually boost the immune system! Plus, writing by hand is a great way to practice fine motor skills.

Skill Building for Work and School

Writing practice promotes effective communication, critical thinking, information processing, and adaptability. These valuable abilities aren’t as common as you might think, and they’ll set learners apart.

See the note on generative AI below to find out more.

Sources: Stanford | ScienceDirect | Global Brain Health Institute | InclusiveTeach.com | NeuroLaunch

Organizations and groups that can benefit from these services include:

• Non-profits

• Mental health organizations

• Secondary public schools

• Secondary private schools

• Post-secondary institutions

• Homeschool groups

• Companies seeking mental health initiatives for employees

• Memory care and day treatment

• Assisted living facilities

. . . and more! Inquire here.

Your instructor can travel to you anywhere in the greater Victoria area, including Saanich, Langford, and Sidney. If you are outside that area or do not have sufficient space, you may request online delivery.

The organization must provide:

• A space with enough seating for all participants (if not available, request online delivery)

• Desks or tables (courses only)

• A projector or screen for digital presentations (if available/desired)

• Communication with participants to confirm attendance

• At least 1 organizational representative available on site or in online meetings (for youth groups, the representative must remain present in the space for the duration of each session)

Based on client preference, the organization OR instructor must provide:

• Pens/pencils and paper (courses only)

• Marketing materials (flyers, copy for digital marketing)

Classes feature a combination of:

“Free writes” — solo writing exercises

• Quiet, individual writing time

• Short (5-10 minutes each)

Activities

• These may involve worksheets, art, brainstorming, and/or moving around the space!

• Each activity has a time limit

Group discussions

• The floor is open for anyone to share their thoughts

The structure of each class varies to keep participants engaged and energized.

Check out the info page For Learners!

We do not use generative AI for any part of the writing process. The classes are intended to help learners practice and develop these skills!

However, participants are welcome to use assistive technology such as spelling and grammar tools.

Please read more about generative AI here.

Rates vary based on factors including group size, location, and client needs. Pricing starts at $600 for a 4-session course and $200 for a speaking engagement. Request a quote here.

For courses, the minimum commitment is typically 4 sessions.

For speaking engagements, time is flexible based on client preference, starting with a single short session (5-15 minutes).

The instructor books services at least 1 month in advance. Exceptions may be possible based on availability and preparation time required.*