WestsideMediaProject

At a time when texting is the most common form of writing for many young people, and the dominant image of urban youth is one of being "at risk" for violence, drugs and educational failure, the Westside Media Project (WMP), stands out as a powerful model for reaching and teaching our next generation of thinkers and doers. WMP is a youth enrichment program that works to improve the overall communication skills of area youth by helping students develop an interest in media and journalism. Through a series of workshops, students work to compose their own newsletters, video podcasts and gain exposure in the use of digital media." But it is so much more. Launched in 2007 on Chicago's Westside as an after-school program by founding Executive Director Frank Latin, the largely volunteer initiative uses writing and digital media as tools for personal transformation and civic engagement. Through its local news show, podcasts, and website, WWP provides a unique youth voice on the issues