Young people have important things to say
826DC helps DC students strengthen their writing skills, share what matters to them, and build a lifelong relationship with writing.
Programs
Free, year-round writing and publishing programs for DC students ages 6-18
We host programs at our Columbia Heights writing center, in schools, and in community spaces across the city.
After-School Writing Lab
A writing community for students, hosted at 826DC.
Read more about After-School Writing Lab
In-School Writing, Editing, and Publishing
Flexible short-and long-term writing residencies in collaboration with K-12 teachers.
Read more about In-School Writing, Editing, and Publishing
Writing Workshops
Exploratory writing sessions across diverse topics and genres, outside of school.
Read more about Writing Workshops
Reading All-Stars
A Saturday morning literacy program for Harriet Tubman Elementary School students.
Read more about Reading All-Stars
Field Trips
Two-hour writing and bookmaking experiences for the whole class.
Read more about Field Trips
Young Authors’ Book Project
A full-year classroom writing project, culminating in a book to be shared with readers across DC.
Read more about Young Authors’ Book Project
Resources
Spark a love of writing in your classroom
Check out our library of tips, tricks, and techniques to make teaching and learning writing skills more dynamic and fun.
Get Involved
Make magic happen
826DC is sustained by people who care as much as we do about young people. From jobs and internships, to volunteering, to donating, we invite you to help us support writing education in more classrooms.
Latest News
Paddlestar Galactica X
Paddlestar Galactica, the ping-pong tournament supporting 826DC’s youth writing programs, is back for YEAR TEN! This beloved event returns on April 27th, 1 PM to 4 PM at SPIN DC.
Read more about Paddlestar Galactica X
Trivia for Cheaters 2024
On January 25th, DC journalists, politicos, industry leaders, and other local movers and shakers will battle for trivia glory at this popular fundraiser.
Read more about Trivia for Cheaters 2024
Panda Prompts with 826DC
DC said goodbye to giant pandas Tian Tian, Mei Xiang, and Xiao Qi Ji yesterday! As they make their way back to China, here are some writing prompts that you might want to try…
Read more about Panda Prompts with 826DC