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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
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Creative writing, critique, and performance
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Led by Amy Le Ann Richardson + guest Appalachian writers
1
"Trail Talks" Guests Series
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Quarterly craft talks and readings with regional authors
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Option to produce a student-led podcast
2
Literary Leadership Cohort
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Small planning team helps curate the fall literary arts festival
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Builds real-world skills in event planning and arts leadership
3
Appalachian Literary Festival
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Student readings, open mic, keynote guest, and more
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Hosted in partnership with CoffeeTree Books & other community partners
4
Trail-Based Writing Retreat
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“Hike and write” day retreat – Rodburn Park
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Creative exploration on the Sheltowee Trace
5
Summer Day Camp
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Week-long writing day camp
6
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.
January 12
4 - 6pm
February 10
4 - 6pm
March 10
4 - 6pm
April 14
4 - 6pm
May 12
4 - 6pm
June 9
4 - 6pm
July 14
4 - 6pm
August 11
4 - 6pm
September 8 4 - 6pm
October 13
4 - 6pm
November 10
4 - 6pm
December 8 4 - 6pm
The Bloodroot Writers 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.
Be Part of the Story
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.
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.
The Bloodroot Writers 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.
Powered by the
James Baker Hall Foundation
About the Facilitator
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.
