Amherst Writers & Artists (AWA) offers an intensive 4-day training to teach people how to lead writing groups effectively and successfully. The training teaches leaders how to establish a safe, supportive environment in which writers can explore their authentic creative voices and improve their craft. The AWA method is effective with experienced writers as well as new ones, and benefits those whose creative juices are already flowing as well as those experiencing a creative block. The method has been particularly effective in helping traditionally silenced people such as women in prison, people battling life-threatening illness, juveniles in detention and others to learn to value their own stories and voices, thereby supporting the growth of self-esteem and personal agency. Over the past fifteen years, AWA has trained over 600 individuals to help writers express themselves more deeply and naturally. The comprehensive training program provides leadership skills, hands-on experience, and practical information on how to form successful writing groups for writers at all levels and from diverse backgrounds. Trainings are held throughout the year in different locations in the United States and abroad. Please see www.amherstwriters.com for our upcoming training schedule.