Philly Youth Poetry Movement (PYPM)

OVERVIEW

The Philly Youth Poetry Movement (PYPM) is a volunteer-run, 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that provides a safe space for Philadelphia teens to discover the power of their voices through spoken word and literary expression. PYPM was founded in 2006 at a time when there were no local poetry events dedicated to youth poets who wanted to write and perform. As the only youth poetry organization in the city, PYPM offers literary arts education programs and mentoring to youth ages 13-19 that promote creative expression, critical literacy, life skills, and leadership. We believe that when youth take ownership of their voices, they take ownership over themselves. Through free weekly workshops, monthly slams, national/local performance opportunities, mentoring and community service, we provide a space where youth use their voices to bring about both personal and social transformation.