Other Services

Jail Writing Workshop

The Ulster County Jail Writing Workshop program was initiated by ULA in response to the perception that a link existed between low levels of literacy skills and the increasing jail population.  This outreach program began in 2003 and has been in continuous operation ever since.  The program is implemented by two person teams consisting of trained volunteers that conduct two-hour workshops one evening a week with the inmates.  The volunteers provide writing materials in the form of approved notebooks and pens which are distributed to new attendees. 

The workshops are divided into two sessions; the first usually consists of instruction in some form and the second session is devoted to writing.  The teams create their lesson plans for the instructional portion relying on experience gained from past sessions on what works and what doesn't.  The writing portion is freestyle with several topics given as suggestions for those who cannot at that moment think of a subject to write about.  When the writing is complete, the attendees are asked to read their work.  In some cases a person does not wish to share his or her thoughts with others, but most do like to read.  The results are amazing.  Something happens when thoughts are converted to the written word.  Many times the reader is overcome with emotion and is unable to finish.  It seems that writing can be cathartic and therapeutic.  

Although the work and commitment involved can be hard and time consuming, the volunteers feel that the rewards far outweigh the effort expended.  Leaving the jail after a good session is exhilarating.  

Literacy Center

Look at our happy faces!

Come see our newest program in action!  The Literacy Center volunteer tutors conduct small group classes on Monday and Wednesday evenings from 5-7 pm at our office at 480 Aaron Court in Kingston.  Our center provides learning materials such as 6 computers and a library of nearly 1,500 volumes for students and their tutors to utilize.  We provide snacks for everyone as well as children's books and games for school aged children coming in with their parents.  Once a month we have a pizza party and celebrate student achievements.