Please help us raise funds to offer bursaries for youth (ages 11 to 19) to attend WordsWorth, our week-long sleepover creative writing residencies this summer at Red Deer Polytechnic. 

No kid should have to miss out on creative development opportunities because of financial barriers to entry. Please consider supporting this campaign to allow us to offer bursaries for youth who need it most!  

WordsWorth 2026: MYTHSMITHS

What is WordsWorth?

WordsWorth is a sleep-away creative writing residency for young writers ages 11 – 19 who believe in the power of creative expression through words. For one week away from home, participants are encouraged to take part in screen-free activities that span genres, forms, and creative skill levels all in the format of a 5-night sleep-away camp. Writers get to experience the benefits of community and camaraderie at WordsWorth: having accommodation in a dorm room, taking group meals in the cafeteria, and taking part in evening social activities with other campers. This year, camp will take place in Red Deer, Alberta, on the college campus of Red Deer Polytechnic.

Immersed in the creative environment of the camp, youth writers have the opportunity to explore and discover their talents through diverse writing-based workshops that are curated by the WordsWorth Director and Creative Team every year. Guided by established and well-respected artist-instructors, participants experience writing through fiction, poetry, music, spoken word, movement, drama, filmmaking, nonfiction, cartooning, and more.

Besides writing classes, WordsWorth is also a place where young writers can come together to celebrate their shared interests and love of writing. Together, they go through a number of rousing extracurricular activities and special events including campfires songs and stories, concerts, open mic nights, nature walks, and exploring other creative activities both outdoors and indoors. Campers often develop meaningful friendships from WordsWorth with other young aspiring writers, and return year after year.

This year's illustrious instructors include Émanuel (Gab) Dubbeldam, Marc Lynch, Shima Aisha Robinson aka Dwennimmen, Richard Kemick, Marin Perlette, Lindsey Walker, and Eden Middleton!