What is Bloodroot?

Bloodroot Writers Collective is a year-round literary arts program for youth in Eastern Kentucky. Rooted in Rowan County and inspired by the resilience of native Appalachian plants like bloodroot, the program cultivates powerful young voices through writing, performance, critique, and mentorship. We believe that place-based storytelling helps young people grow as writers, leaders, and changemakers—rooted in where they’re from and rising toward what’s possible.

Who is Bloodroot for?

Young writers in Rowan County and surrounding areas ages: 13-17. No experience needed — just curiosity, creativity, and love for story

The Heart of the Collective

Creative Voice

We nurture bold expression and originality through writing across genres. Each session invites young writers to explore their identity and voice with confidence.

Place-Based Roots

Inspired by the land, traditions, and storytelling of Eastern Kentucky, our work grows from Appalachian soil — rich with memory, meaning, and resilience.

Collective Growth

This is a youth-led, community-supported space for learning, listening, and lifting one another up. Through critique, collaboration, and connection, we grow together.

Mentorship & Momentum

Students gain guidance from regional authors, poets, and storytellers who help spark creative momentum — through craft talks, performances, and year-round support.

Program Features

Monthly Workshops

Creative writing, critique, and performance
Led by Amy Le Ann Richardson + guest Appalachian writers

"Trail Talks" Guest Series

Quarterly craft talks and readings with regional authors
Option to produce a student-led podcast

Literary Leadership Cohort

Small planning team helps curate the fall literary arts festival
Builds real-world skills in event planning and arts leadership

Appalachian Literary Festival

Student readings, open mic, keynote guest, and more
Hosted in partnership with CoffeeTree Books & other community partners

Trail-Based Writing Retreat

“Hike and write” day retreat – Rodburn Park
Creative exploration on the Sheltowee Trace

Summer Day Camp

Week-long writing day camp

Monthly Workshop Schedule

Workshops are held at the Rowan County Arts Center on the second Tuesday of each month (excluding holidays). Join us for creative writing sessions, community connection, and literary exploration.

October 14

4pm - 6pm

November 11

4pm - 6pm

December 9

4pm - 6pm

Be Part of the Story

The Bloodroot Writer’s Collective grows through community. Whether you're enrolling a young writer, volunteering your time, or supporting the work financially—every gesture helps this story take root and thrive.

Register Your Student

Bloodroot welcomes youth ages 13–17 with a passion for writing and self-expression. Space is limited and participation is free—register now to be part of this year-round creative community.

Volunteer with Us

Writers, artists, educators, and advocates—we invite you to share your time and talents. From mentorship to event support, volunteers help make Bloodroot thrive.

CONTACT

Support the Collective

Help cultivate the next generation of Appalachian storytellers. Your donation directly supports youth workshops, guest authors, mentorship, and performance opportunities. Every dollar helps voices rise.

DONATE

Powered by the
James Baker Hall Foundation

The Bloodroot Writer’s Collective is proudly hosted by the Rowan County Arts Center—an anchor for visual, performing, and now literary arts in the heart of Morehead. This first-of-its-kind youth writing initiative in our region is made possible through generous support and partnership with the James Baker Hall Foundation, whose commitment to nurturing young Appalachian voices helps this collective grow, flourish, and thrive.

Learn More

About the Facilitator

Amy Le Ann Richardson

Amy Le Ann Richardson is a writer, educator, and advocate from Morehead, KY. A graduate of Morehead State University and Spalding’s MFA program, she is the author of three poetry collections and the editor of the forthcoming anthology Rooted, Resilient, Rising (UPK). Her work appears in Still: The Journal, Pine Mountain Sand & Gravel, Kentucky Monthly, and more. She lives, writes, and grows food on her family farm in Carter County.

About Amy