Do The Write Thing

About the Do the Write Thing (DtWT) ChallengeThe Do the Write Thing Challenge is a unique education program designed to give middle school students an outlet to communicate in classroom discussions and then in written form how violence impacts their daily lives.  In addition to exposing the causes and impact of violence, students are asked to identify what they will do to address these problems.  By emphasizing personal responsibility, the DtWT Challenge ultimately seeks to empower young people to reduce violence in their homes, schools and neighborhoods.  The DtWT Challenge expands into various cities and schools by the creation of DtWT committees formed from local businesses, community and government leaders.  From Los Angeles to Chicago to Boston to New Orleans, the DtWT Challenge is currently in 30 major cities from across the United States. DtWT is a unique violence prevention program consisting of four main elements: 1. Accepting Personal Responsibility/Therapeutic Element – The participants accept the challenge to take personal responsibility for their future and to say NO to youth violence. Writing an essay for the Challenge provides a therapeutic experience for those that have been a victim of violence. 2. Communication/Information Element – The Challenge creates an open line of communication between students and teachers. The program gives the students a chance to write about topics that are affecting their lives. In addition, the schools are provided with information about their students of which they may not be aware. 3. Bonding Element – Once the lines of communication are opened, it allows the students and teachers to talk on a different, more personal level. The Challenge helps to build a special bond between student and teacher. 4. Community Response/Action Element – The program gives youth the opportunity to share ideas and solutions with the community – including policymakers, elected officials, school administrators, teachers, community & business leaders and family court judges. Once the students have shared their experiences with violence, it is a catalyst for the community to get involved. The youth have put a face to the problem, which has motivated thousands of volunteers to join this campaign to reduce violence.  Email dtwtboston@gmail.com for more information or to get involved.  OR download the PDF attached to this message.