Based on the theory that good writing and storytelling are keys to a healthy mind, Inprint Senior Memoir Workshops enliven memories and involve seniors in a stimulating group activity. Workshop participants write about their lives, recording them for their children and grandchildren, themselves, and their communities. By writing, reading aloud, and revising their stories with a skilled teacher, the seniors experience a sense of accomplishment, enhanced mental alertness, and increased wellbeing. These workshops also provide the seniors with an all-too-rare opportunity for personal growth and new friendship. One long-time participant has since published her poetry in regional literary magazines, and has read her poetry at the Houston Poetry Fest and the Round Top Poetry Festival.

Workshops are led by accomplished local writers, including students, alumni, and faculty from the prestigious University of Houston Creative Writing Program. Courses run every fall and spring for 6 – 10 weeks, meeting 2 hours per week. At the end of the year, each workshop leader collects work from the seniors to publish in an anthology. The workshops end with a joyous celebration where participants give a reading for family, friends, and community members.

Inprint Senior Memoir Workshops are currently being offered at Harris County Precinct One’s Finnigan Park Community Center and the Evelyn Rubenstein Jewish Community Center. In the past, workshops have been held at Amazing Place, Talento Bilingüe de Houston, Lincoln Park Community Center, Denver Harbor, Hester House, Ripley House, and Magnolia Multi-Purpose Center.

Inprint is deeply grateful to The Samuels Foundation and Robin Angly and Miles Smith for providing underwriting support for this program.