Programs That Spark Confidence and Creativity
POW will use a variety of strategic initiatives designed to create positive change in line with the organizations Mission. These programs will use various resources and will require ongoing management to ensure effectiveness. Please see some of the current and future programs offered by POW.
Black Paperback Book Fair
Launched in 2021, the annual Black Paperback Book Fair creates an inclusive space where new and established authors of color can share their work, connect with readers, and celebrate the power of storytelling. Hosted each summer while students are out of school, the fair builds bridges between writers and the community by offering free access to author talks, book signings, and interactive activities. Vendors and food partners bring added vibrancy to the event, while oversized games like Scrabble, chess, and Connect Four encourage families to engage, play, and learn together. More than just a book fair, this gathering fosters literacy, uplifts diverse voices, and strengthens community bonds by making literature accessible, enjoyable, and rooted in cultural pride.
W(h)iny writing Workshops
W(h)iny Writing Workshops (WWW) are monthly, in-person sessions led by subject matter experts who make writing both engaging and approachable. In a relaxed, supportive environment—with wine available for those who choose—participants explore essential writing skills such as journaling, poetry and rap, creative storytelling, and effective organizing and brainstorming techniques. Each workshop blends instruction with hands-on practice, allowing participants to immediately apply what they’ve learned in a final activity. By strengthening foundational writing skills in fun, safe spaces, WWW supports Play On Words’ mission to close literacy gaps, improve academic performance, enhance job readiness, and build the confidence individuals need to succeed in school, work, and life.
Resume writing and Interview Preparedness Workshops
POW recognizes that resumes are more than job applications—they are the collective stories of a person’s career journey. To help participants tell those stories with clarity and confidence, we will continue to host quarterly resume-building and interview-preparedness workshops. These in-person sessions work hand-in-hand with our creative writing programs, ensuring that participants not only develop strong foundational writing skills but also learn to apply them in real-world circumstances. Our first resume workshop, hosted at Indiana Wesleyan University, equipped attendees with practical tools and take-home resources to support both classroom success and future career opportunities. By integrating professional skill-building into our mission, POW empowers individuals to transform their words into pathways toward employment, stability, and self-confidence.
I Love Words
​I Love Words is POW’s multifaceted program designed to support emerging writers as they outline, organize, and refine their work with the guidance of supportive workshops. These sessions equip participants with the skills to transform ideas into polished pieces while also demystifying the publishing process. The program also features a competitive component: writers are invited to submit original work through Submittable for inclusion in our biannual I Love Words publication. This opportunity provides authors with a platform to showcase their talent, gain recognition, and see their hard work celebrated in print
