Arts and Culture United States Project #9220

Teach Literacy through the Arts in DC, MD, and VA

by Story Tapestries Inc.

Teach Literacy through the Arts in DC, MD, and VA

Project Report | Apr 22, 2026
Building Voices, Developing Writers

By Arianna Ross | Founder & CEO

In the past three months, Story Tapestries has had the privilege of working with both young poets and adult writers—supporting them in finding their voices and sharing their stories with confidence. Through our Teach Literacy through the Arts programs across DC, Maryland, and Virginia, participants are building essential literacy skills through creative expression and storytelling. From middle school students stepping onto the stage to community members exploring the legacy of Langston Hughes, these programs are helping participants build literacy, creativity, and critical thinking skills that will last a lifetime.

For years, Story Tapestries has worked with learners from age 3 to 105, using the arts to strengthen literacy and communication. Many of our programs are rooted in STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math), where research, creativity, and reflection come together through writing. At their core, both literacy and STEAM experiences are about empowering individuals to think critically, express themselves, and engage meaningfully with the world.

Lifting Youth Voices Through Poetry

On March 14th, we partnered with The Civic Circle for a powerful annual event where middle school students shared their original poetry. Watching students step up and take the stage—many for the first time—was a moving reminder of the importance of creating spaces where young people feel seen, heard, and valued.

These moments are not just performances—they are milestones. Each poem reflects a young person discovering their voice and building the confidence to share their perspective with others.

Watch a student poetry event here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hwKH5eIJAoA

“I, Too, Am America”: Finding Voice Through Legacy

At the same time, we concluded the “I, Too, Am America” project, a series of workshops led by poets and spoken word artists. Inspired by the work of Langston Hughes, participants explored themes of identity, justice, and belonging—culminating in a public poetry slam featuring both community members and professional writers.

As poet and Literary Journal Editor Regie Cabico reflects:
“The world may not be sturdy, but poetry will hold us up.”

Through this project, participants engaged deeply with Hughes’ work—Let America Be America Again, The Kids Will Die, and As I Grew Older—and created original pieces that speak to both personal experience and shared humanity. In a time often marked by uncertainty, this work creates space for courage, reflection, and connection.

Amplifying Voices Through Publication

To extend the impact of this work, we launched the first edition of the Amplify US Literary Journal, featuring poems written by project participants. This publication ensures that these voices are not only heard in the moment, but shared more widely—building understanding, empathy, and community.

Explore the Amplify US Literary Journal:
https://storytapestries.org/story-tapestries-literary-journal/

We are deeply grateful to Jessica Wallach, Assistant Editor and Production Manager, and to Regie Cabico for serving as Editor and Curator of the journal.

A Voice in Their Own Words

One participant, Soo-Jin Lee, beautifully captures the heart of this work:

Ode to My Family (excerpt)

I am America,
daughter to
immigrant parents,
who dreamed a dream
that one day
we’d be wrapped
in wealth,
but really, love

…

Continue reading the full poem:
https://storytapestries.org/soo-jin-lee/

Because of You

These stories and creative works are more than individual expressions—they are living examples of what your support through GlobalGiving makes possible.

From young poets finding their voice to adult writers reclaiming and reshaping powerful narratives, each project reflects Story Tapestries’ commitment to building literacy, creativity, and community through the arts. Whether through STEAM-integrated learning, public performances, or publications like the Amplify US Literary Journal, these programs nurture confidence, critical thinking, and connection across generations.

Because of you, participants are not only developing as writers and thinkers—they are stepping forward as storytellers of their own lives, helping to shape a more empathetic and connected world.

Thank you for being part of this work.

*Participants have consented to name use.

Links:

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Dec 23, 2025
Celebrating Learning, Healing, and Opportunity

By Arianna Ross | Founder & CEO

As we reflect on the close of 2025, we are filled with gratitude for you, our GlobalGiving partners. Because of your generosity, children, youth, and adults across our region experienced learning, healing, and growth through the power of the arts. Together, we strengthened literacy & STEM learning, supported positive mental health, and expanded access to opportunity—laying the groundwork for an even more impactful 2026.

Below are highlights from three core Story Tapestries initiatives you helped make possible this year.

Write Your Story: Building Voice, Joy and Early Learning

Through Write Your Story, we reached 875 young children, family members and educators across early childhood classrooms, bringing music, movement, storytelling, and visual art directly into learning environments. Teaching artists worked side-by-side with educators to strengthen emergent literacy, STEM, social-emotional learning, and motor skills—especially for children navigating poverty, multilingual learning, or developmental delays.

Educators consistently reported increased confidence, engagement, and expressive language among their students. One teacher shared:

“The sessions really brought kids out of their shells. I see them more confident now, which will help in kindergarten next year.”

Families were also part of the journey. Art & learning kits extended creativity into homes, with caregivers reporting that children were eager to keep drawing, singing, and storytelling together. 100% of caregivers surveyed said their child enjoyed using the art kits and learned something new, reinforcing that learning doesn’t stop at the classroom door.

Highlight Reel - https://bit.ly/WYSVideo_2024-25

CHART: A Path to Positive Mental Health

In a year marked by stress and uncertainty, CHART provided adolescents and educators with creative tools to process emotions, build resilience, and strengthen connections. Through songwriting, poetry, movement, and visual art, youth explored self-expression in supportive, trauma-informed spaces.

The impact was clear:

98% of youth reported increased knowledge and confidence using arts-based mental health tools
95% planned to use what they learned beyond the program
850+ family and community members were engaged through performances and events

One student reflected simply but powerfully:

“It was fun—but it also helped me with my stress.”

Highlight Reel - https://bit.ly/CHART_202425

Digital Solutions: Bridging the Digital Divide and Expanding Opportunity

Your support also powered Digital Solutions, helping adults and youth gain essential digital and workforce readiness skills. Participants learned everything from basic computer navigation and photography to resume building, LinkedIn, and interview preparation—often for the first time.

Results exceeded expectations:

98% learned new digital skills
99% planned to use those skills within 1–3 months
Participants reported increased confidence, reduced fear of technology, and real employment outcomes—including job interviews and placements

As one participant shared:

“I went from being afraid of technology to being curious. Now I feel empowered.”

Highlight Reel - https://bit.ly/DigitalSolutionsVideo_2024-25

With Gratitude—and Hope for 2026

As the year comes to a close, we want to wish you Happy Holidays and extend our heartfelt thanks for all you made possible in 2025. Your belief in arts-centered solutions helped children find their voices, supported mental wellness, and opened doors to opportunity for individuals and families.

We are excited to build on this momentum and look ahead to an even more impactful 2026—continuing to partner with communities to create learning, healing, and hope through the arts.

From all of us at Story Tapestries: thank you for being part of this story.

Links:

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Nov 13, 2025
Stepping back and leaning in

By Lorienne Beals | Vice President of Story Tapestries, Inc.

It has been a complex year and as we continue to face new challenges, I’m deeply grateful for the ways you continue to show up for our community. On November 1 we gathered for The Maryland Gala, honoring Maryland’s history, celebrating her accomplishments, and sharing stories worthy of joy – thank you to all who participated (check out the Guest Photo Album)! We are struck by the fact that across our region and beyond, families are facing food scarcity, unemployment/underemployment, mental health struggles, and a lack of affordable tools and resources. For 15 years Story Tapestries has used the arts, storytelling, and creativity to address these challenges head-on.

“It’s about stepping back to listen, and then leaning in to understand what’s possible.”
-Arianna Ross, Story Tapestries Founder & CEO

Nate*, a resident at the Nebel Street Men’s Shelter, faced communication difficulties after a stroke. Through our Digital Solutions program, he worked with a teaching artist to enhance his interviewing skills. His confidence and preparedness led to him securing a job at a hotel. This course not only provided him with critical digital skills but also instilled the confidence to thrive in the workforce. Having a well-paid job is central to having food on the table.

We partner with agencies, community organizations, and families to:

Strengthen workforce skills for youth and adults
Support positive mental health
Connect individuals with work opportunities
Empower educators with tools for joyful & effective learning

Celebrating 15 years of Stories & Impact

Your contribution has made those who are struggling feel seen, heard, and supported. The support you give looks like artists supporting youths and adults with experiences that build the skills and confidence that lead to academic and workforce success. What your support feels like - is LOVE. That’s the gift you gave Nate.

For 15 years we have amplified voices, transformed lives and demonstrated how the arts can be part of the solution to critical issues – reaching over 4 million individuals. Help us meet the moment, and to continue for another 15 years!

We hope you feel fantastic about what you’ve accomplished by investing in Story Tapestries.

Thank you for every dollar you give and for every dollar you ask for on behalf of Story Tapestries. May we all recognize how strong we are – together!

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