Empowering
communities through poetry workshops that inspire creativity, growth, and a love for learning that lasts a lifetime.
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About
Pen Power Poetry™ is more than just a workshop; it’s a movement to uplift and empower everybody, one poem at a time
In many schools, children have not had the chance to develop a love for intellectual pursuits. In St. Louis, only 20% of third graders are reading at the national grade level. Through poetry, which can be both enjoyable and easy, Pen Power Poetry™ brings joy and laughter to students who may or may not be accustomed to finding joy in such activities.
Our poetry workshops are designed to ignite a passion for reading and self-expression among all youth in Saint Louis, including those who have faced barriers due to limited resources. We believe in the transformative power of words—how a simple verse can unlock a world of imagination, confidence, and self-discovery. Our mission is to create a safe, inspiring space where young minds can explore the beauty of language, find their voice, and realize that their stories matter.
At our core, we are about empowerment. Through engaging activities, guided writing exercises, and collaborative sharing, Pen Power Poetry equips these young poets with the tools they need to express themselves freely and powerfully. By fostering a love for reading and writing, we hope to not only boost literacy but also instill a sense of self-worth and possibility.
11,780+
Pen Power Poetry worksheets requests globally
3,015+
Workshop attendees, learners, and students
204
Workshops in the Saint Louis area
38
Partner organizations
10,000+
Teachers involved with Pen Power Poetry
166
Schools impacted by Pen Power Poetry
Pen Power Poetry has hosted workshops in collaboration with these organizations, among others.
Few adolescents possess a combination of natural talent, autonomous motivation,
and a keen, intense empathy for others and their lived experiences. Izzy s not one to
impose her ideas or will, but rather listen and learn to gain understanding. She then
combines this understanding with incredible talent and tenacity to make things happen.
I’ve never witnessed a high school student make more things happen than
Isabelle Cox-Garleanu does. Though a powerful force of change, Izzy also has a way of
leading that feels organic, almost effortless, and always respectful. Her charisma and
character draw people in; they want to take action alongside her, whether peers or adults.
She is bold, brave, and reverent – she represents the ideal blend of human character
the likes of which you don’t see very often in a lifetime. I could talk about the great poet
she is, but that’s such a minor attribute compared to the others. This young woman
leads movements and inspires action for the sake of humanity. I can’t think of a greater
attribute than that. You will hear her name again and again over the next several decades.
– Chris Holmes, 2015 Missouri Teacher of the Year
I absolutely loved seeing Izzy host a workshop for our girls at Girl PowHer, teaching them how to use poetry to heal. She connected with them on such a deep level, empowered them, and showed them how to pour their hearts out through words. She is truly an inspiration and a sweetheart. Her workshops go beyond reading and writing. They help with self-expression, and more importantly, self-worth. Parents and teachers have attested to the transformations they've seen in children who were never before interested in books and writing. My girls describe her workshops as something they want to do forever. The spark she has lit is, in so many cases, the beginning of a lifelong love of learning and discovery.
– Reann Hines, CEO and Founder of the Behind It All Foundation
Isabelle's workshops were inspiring! Her bubbly and warm demeanor guided my students and really helped them come out of their shells to find their creativity. Their poems and presentations were amazing, as a result! Thank you, Isabelle!
– Nova Walton, Director of the Sisterhood Program
Every Thursday after school, I look forward to Pen Power Poetry. Writing poetry is awesome with Miss Izzy. My favorite part is when we create the "feedback table" where people who need Miss Izzy's advice sit together with her.
– Macy, 5th grade student at Pershing Elementary school
This girl knows what she is doing. These workshops are just the FUNNEST for the kids. They love her, and she helps them to love writing. Literacy is love. Pen Power Poetry is love. The kids absolutely adore this program.
– Morgan Joiner, Unleashing Potential
Thank you to our sponsors!
MAY 31st 12 P.M. to 3 P.M.
Got something to say? Poetry is a powerful way to turn your thoughts, feelings, and experiences into art—and this workshop is all about helping you find your voice!
In partnership with Pen Power Poetry, we’re hosting a special workshop led by Izzy Cox-Garleanu, an international teen poetry winner. Through fun activities, guided writing exercises, and open sharing, you’ll discover new ways to express yourself in a welcoming, no-judgment space. Whether you’re new to poetry or already filling notebooks with verses, this is your chance to grow, connect, and get inspired.
No rules, no pressure—just a space to be yourself and let your words flow. Your story matters, and we want to hear it!
