Since 2025, 826michigan has served the Ann Arbor community. Dedicated to developing strong, confident writers and collaborators, 826michigan offers a variety of free, quality programs for students from 9-12th grade. According to their website, these programs have helped over 4,500 “enrich the literary landscape with their powerful voices, boundless creativity and infectious enthusiasm.”
826michigan recently received $3,750 in funding from the Ypsilanti City Council to support their Teen Leadership Labs program. Find out more about 826michigan, Teen Leadership Labs, and other offerings that might benefit the young writers in your life.
What is 826michigan?
826michigan is a nonprofit organization that is committed to providing writing and literacy instruction to local students through programs such as After School Writing Lab, Wee-Write, a variety of digital and summer programs and the Teen Leadership Lab. Each of these programs offers something special. For example, Wee-Writes allows students aged 5-8 to play with writing through storytelling, illustration and focused activities while the After School Writing Lab supports writers through collaboration with peers and adult mentorship as they draft their own original narratives.
826michigan is founded on the belief that all students should have access to quality, equitable, engaging opportunities to improve their writing and their futures. Therefore, they offer these programs at no cost to students and in fact, even offer high school students the chance to approach writing as professionals through their Teen Leadership Lab
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Teen Leadership Lab
826michigan’s Teen Leadership Lab is an exciting opportunity for writers of all ages. This program allows high school students to work with and support younger writers. For teen writers, this is a profound opportunity as they are not simply volunteers, but trained and paid mentors.
Teen Leaders must apply to the program, and then begin by participating in professional development that will help them hone their mentoring skills. They are also supported during the program through debriefing sessions, reflection and targeted learning. They also have the opportunity to share their own work with their peers for feedback and may even have chances to publish their work.
Teen Leaders who complete the program are given a stipend. This program runs year-round and takes place at the Ann Arbor District Library on Mondays from 4:30-6:45pm and the Ypsilanti District Library on Tuesdays from 4:30-6pm. Choose the time and location that works best for you!
Interested in learning more about 826michigan?
Do you know a young writer who would enjoy a collaborative, supportive literacy environment? 826michigan offers inclusive and targeted opportunities built on the belief that “with fun and creative writing outlets, all students can improve their academic performance, develop a sense of belonging and discover the value and power of their own unique voice.” Their volunteers work to meet the needs of all learners and boast a large network of stakeholders and resources to best support your child.
If you are interested in getting involved yourself, there are plenty of weekly and flexible volunteer opportunities! In order to provide individualized support for students, many volunteers are needed for classes, roadshows and field trips.
To explore programs, apply to volunteer, or simply learn more about 826michigan, explore their website or email info@826michigan.org.
Author: Dr. Alyssa Whitford is a former K-12 teacher and current professor of education at Hope College in Holland, MI. She is passionate about literacy, social studies, and all things education. She is also a proud parent to two children of her own.
