To call the Austin Bat Cave a writing and tutorial center for kids is technically accurate but also vastly undersells the sheer awesomeness of the endeavor.
We’re talking songwriting instructionals from real-life rock stars, journalism workshops with editors of major magazines, and script advice from working screenwriters, not to mention workshops in poetry and hip-hop, albums and anthologies put out, and a supportive community that kids age 6-18 can come to for tutoring and creative encouragement.
The nonprofit Austin Bat Cave is modeled after the hugely successful 826 National program, although the Bat Cave’s hoped-for permanent residence and themed storefront – a Center of the Earth visitors center – is still a ways away. Right now, ABC is raising money for its Hand & Wing in-school Writer’s Residency program, wherein volunteers are sent weekly around AISD schools to run workshops, assist teachers, work one-on-one with kids, and generally drop some major inspiration bombs. (You can read more about ABC projects, like their annual anthology and adult reading series, The Story Department, in the Chronicle archive.)
Seriously, we cannot overemphasize the great work ABC does. They’re currently about 2 grand shy of their Kickstarter $25,000 fundraising goal with only four days to go. If the project doesn’t reach its goal in full, then none of the donations will be paid out at all. (Oh, Kickstarter, you are a harsh mistress, you.) Which is all to say: Go here. Give.
This article appears in November 4 • 2011.
