FAQs

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What is Spells?

Spells is a writing center that’s all about the sharing magic of words and self-expression. Children need freedom to stretch their imaginations and permission to play with words. Through one-on-one attention, creative programming, and generosity of spirit, energy, and enthusiasm, we aim to cultivate a love of writing within young people and show them the life-changing potential that comes with embracing and experimenting with new forms of self-expression. The opportunity to tell stories in all genres—magazine articles, graphic novels, and scripts for short films, among others—is a privilege no one should be denied, and can be absolutely spellbinding.

How can I help?

You tell us! We need energetic, enthusiastic volunteers who want to support Philadelphia’s teachers and children. Currently, we are most in need of people to help develop and run creative programs and to support our fundraising and space development efforts with in-kind and financial gifts. For more information about how you can help, email us.

Where can I sign up to volunteer?

Don’t be shy! Check out our Volunteer page and fill out our Volunteer form.

I’ve got some money and want you to have it. How can I give it to you?

We’re grateful for your support and no gift is too small! We have many ideas for how to leverage your financial donation so it directly benefits the students Spells strives to serve. Please visit our Donate page or e-mail Caroline Tiger about giving opportunities.

How do I enroll my kids?

We love this question! Get more information about our upcoming workshops on our Workshops page, or sign your child up for a program by e-mailing write@phillyspells.org.

Why are you going to have a store?

Spells will be fronted by a fun, irreverent, clever retail store that will fund a significant portion of our operating expenses. Many of the organizations we’re using for inspiration have successfully used a similar model to reduce their fundraising needs and create a unique and stimulating entry point to their writing centers. (At 826’s New York chapter, the store’s revenue fuels 25% of their operating costs.) Our store committee, comprised of educators, retailers, designers, children’s book authors and illustrators, and kids, is currently working on developing a store that rivals the Liberty Bell as a Philadelphia attraction. One hundred percent of all proceeds from the store will support the operation and programming of Spells.

Isn’t there a program like this in San Francisco?

Yes, author Dave Eggers started the 826 Valencia writing center in San Francisco and then replicated it in other cities. We base our model and mission on the 826 program but have no official connection with them. We also take inspiration from other writing centers around the nation, including Austin Bat Cave, The Telling Room, Capitol Letters, and Metro Denver Promotion of Letters, and share with them a love of writing and belief in its power to transform. Like them, we are also committed to providing young people and teachers with creative outlets for self-expression.

I heard an 826 was opening in Philadelphia. Is this you or another program?

Alas, no. The 826 National organization isn’t accepting applications for any new chapters at present, so there won’t be an official 826 Philly writing center anytime soon.

Spells Writing Lab
2526 N. Alder Street
Philadelphia, PA 19133
267-670-0869
info@phillyspells.org