For the past year, I’ve been teaching creative writing at Habilitat, the substance abuse treatment center in Kaneohe. On Sundays, I walk up the road carting a bag full of books and pens and notebooks and spend a few hours immersed in conversation and lessons about writing. I think of it as church.

We did our first reading and public workshop back in February, hosted by the lovely folks at Capitol Modern. If you’re interesting in having a workshop at your facility or want to bring a group together, we’re available for a one-off workshop or a series of classes.

Writing can be daunting, but we use interactive exercises that get your hand moving. We spend some time discussing a poem or short piece of prose before sharing a group activity and then diving into some writing. After that, we spend time on sharing and feedback. All of these skills are great for creative types, beginner or more experienced writers. The curriculum is inviting and builds connections to community and creativity.

Contact Deborah for more information and with any questions. deborah@loihiartsfoundation.org

Deborah Harada writes fiction, poetry and personal essay. Her latest work can be found at Honolulu Magazine or through her website. She’s taught creative writing for seven years in a variety of settings. She’s worked with groups as diverse as cancer patients, adolescents dealing with chronic pain, a graduate cohort from Yale and residents of substance abuse treatment center. Voice and community and a love of creative process are the common threads.