360° Stories brings the transformative power of writing and storytelling to youth by giving them the 360° experience of bringing a book to life. Through this 8-session intensive writing and illustrating program, kids learn new skills, make new friends, and work alongside community-based authors and illustrators to produce and publish the stories they want to tell. By connecting with author-ambassadors and each other, kids find role models and peers to look up to on their own creative journeys.
The program is packed with activities to guide participants through the creative process of authorship. At the end, the kids’ work is published in an anthology and celebrated with a book launch.
360° Stories offers mentorship from community-based authors, illustrators, and educators. These leaders guide participants, and act as a sounding board for ideas to remind kids that no matter who they are, their stories deserve to be shared with the world.
Each child that signs up for 360° Stories will receive their own copy of our Brilliant Brainstorming Book, a resource designed to lay the foundation for storytelling. The book includes pages for character and plot development, as well as tips and tricks for producing vibrant illustrations. At the end of the program, they’ll also receive a copy of the professionally-bound anthology written, illustrated and published by participants.
Environments that support positive relationships between peers and adults have been shown to promote growth and development in youth. 360° Stories creates an opportunity for youth to feel a sense of belonging and engagement in a safe space where they can creatively express themselves. You can read more about the power of after-school programs here.
TESTIMONIAL
My favourite parts of the 360° Stories program are all of the staff/coaches and students were so kind and I really got inspired and motivated a lot because of the program. I loved creating so many incredible stories, ideas and poems. No words are enough to describe how much I enjoyed and loved the program.
– 360° Stories Participant
SEE the PROGRAM in ACTION!
