About the Program

This 3-night/4-day retreat is designed to spark your creativity and foster connections with fellow storytellers.

Join Valerie Bolling, Jas Hammonds, and fellow storytellers for this in-community retreat for Black writers and illustrators. With a loosely structured schedule, the Black Voices retreat allows you ample time and space to engage in writing, illustrating, or simply exploring. We will host a virtual Q & A with editor Sydnee Monday from Kokila Books.

Feel free to bring multiple projects, as we celebrate the power of community and various approaches to uplifting and championing Black voices in crafting stories for children and teens. There will be an abundance of writing, illustrating, and retreat time; please bring your stories.

It’s a Great Fit If…

• You are an in-community creative at any experience level or stage in the creative process.
• You’d like a retreat where you can get to work. You structure your retreat. You’ll have time to focus on your stories in the community of fellow creatives.
• You’d like to build support and amplify the voices of our diverse and talented community.

Tentative Agenda

Please note: There is limited availability to come one day early at an additional cost. If this works for you, you can select accordingly at registration. This option can make travel easier, and/or give you extra time on campus (especially if it’s your first time here).

At least one week prior to the retreat, you will receive a link to our virtual classroom where you can introduce yourself to fellow writers and engage in Highlights Foundation related resources (including our Community Standards). The Highlights Foundation strives for a safe and inclusive environment. You will have access to our Community Standards prior to the workshop where we ask for your respectful engagement with fellow creatives, including our faculty and staff.

How It Impacts Kids

Bringing your identity to your work matters to your readers. Get support and care in-community with this rich experience.

Testimonials from Our Community

“Getting the time to be in community with other Black creatives is priceless. it’s an incredible chance to share ideas, get feedback, build relationships, all in a space that doesn’t feel restricted. ”

“Thank you for creating such a safe space for us. I can’t wait to attend this retreat again next year!”

“The staff is so welcoming. They remembered me from previous visits and greeted with “Hey there! You’re back with us!” Or “Did you need help with that luggage or want a ride?” I mean, there’s nothing like that kind of greeting or that kind of care.”

Related Resources

• Black Voices at the Highlights Foundation
• A Visit to Remember with Valerie Bolling
• Summer Reading Gather