Baltimore Community Fellowships

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Helen Keith first experienced the magic of poetry years ago when a math and social studies teacher at a West Baltimore elementary school quoted Kipling and other poets during the school day.

Now Keith, a community activist and daycare provider, is following his example and exposing youngsters in southwest Baltimore to the joy of poetry. She is leading an after-school program, "Promoting Children’s Voices," giving 5th through 8th graders an opportunity to read poetry and write their own. Poetry slams will give the students a chance to "compete" against other poets, and their poetry will be displayed in creative ways around the community—perhaps at bus stops.

The students taking part generally come from families coping with significant problems. Many are desperate for an outlet to express their feelings—and for someone to listen.

"I’m hoping this experience builds their ability to deal with their day-to-day struggles," Keith says of her budding poets. It can give the children a more positive outlook, and it’s another way of getting themselves heard."