Stepping Into a New Project: Facilitating a Writing Group at Housing Plus - V-Day
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Stepping Into a New Project: Facilitating a Writing Group at Housing Plus

Stepping Into a New Project: Facilitating a Writing Group at Housing Plus

Starting a new project always comes with a mix of excitement and nerves, and my first day facilitating the writing group at Housing Plus in the Bronx was no exception. As I walked through the doors, I felt the familiar flutter of anticipation in my stomach. Would the participants be receptive? Can I create the safe, encouraging space I envisioned for them?

From the moment we gathered, however, I was reminded of the power of community. Six incredible women attended our first session, eager to explore writing as a means of healing and growth. This new writing group aims to do more than just put pen to paper; it’s about using writing as a tool for advocacy, empowerment, and healing. Each woman in that room has a unique story to tell, and I believe that through writing, they can find their voice and share their experiences with the world.

As we introduced ourselves, I was pleasantly surprised to see some familiar faces among the participants—women I had met during my journey. It was heartwarming to reconnect, and it reminded me of the strong bonds that can form in spaces dedicated to support and growth.

We began our session by creating community agreements, ensuring everyone felt respected and safe to share. This foundational aspect is crucial for fostering a nurturing environment. Next, we dove into our first writing short assignments, which everyone engaged in and was eager to share with the group. Our last writing of the day was “What I Do Well.” While we didn’t finish this assignment in our first session, the participants expressed enthusiasm and commitment to work on it for the next group meeting.

My wonderful co-facilitator, Denise Solla, was a tremendous support throughout the session. She noted, “Our first writing workshop went well. I found the women to be open-minded and very willing to share. They used the prompts well and showed sincere interest. The group seems to be amicably interacting with each other, which creates positive energy and a good environment. I am very excited to work with all of the women and look forward to seeing what is created in the workshop.”

By the end of our time together, I felt a renewed sense of purpose. The women in this group are not just participants; they are powerful voices ready to navigate their transitions and share their journeys. I left feeling inspired by their courage and commitment to using writing as a transformative tool.

As we embark on this 12-week journey together, I am excited to witness the growth and healing that will occur. Writing is not just about crafting words; it’s about building a community where we can support each other as we navigate the challenges ahead. I can’t wait to see how our stories unfold in the coming weeks!

Here’s to new beginnings, powerful voices, and the magic of writing! ✍️💖


Housing Plus is a nonprofit organization in the Bronx, New York, dedicated to providing supportive housing and comprehensive services for individuals and families experiencing or at risk of homelessness. The organization’s mission is to promote stable housing solutions and enhance the quality of life for its clients through a range of programs, including case management, job training, and mental health support.

For more detailed information about their programs and services, please visit their website: HousingPlus.

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