Mighty Writers is more than a nonprofit. It is a movement that changes lives by teaching kids to think and write with clarity. For many young people across Philadelphia, Mighty Writers is a safe space, a launchpad, and a second family. I know this firsthand — because I was one of them.
My Journey with Mighty Writers
I was in seventh grade when I first walked through the doors of Mighty Writers in middle school. At the time, I had no idea how much the program would shape my life. What I found was not only a place to write, but also a community of friends, mentors, and role models who pushed forth the belief that I already had in myself and made it grander.
Mentors like Khalia Robinson and Nadia Malik guided me with patience and encouragement. Nadia, who is still in my life today, carried me through high school and helped me prepare for college. They explained college terms, walked me through applications. My mentors were another support system, preparing me for my own college experience. I eventually attended Community College of Philadelphia's high school dual enrollment program, simultaneously earning a high school diploma and college credits. Since then, I have transferred from CCP to Temple University, where I am completing my senior year in art therapy.
Mighty Writers didn't just sharpen my writing skills. It gave me lifelong connections, taught me how to dream bigger. Alongside my mother, Knekeya Payne, Mighty Writers showed me how powerful my mind is while encouraging unfiltered creativity.
Why Mentorship Matters
What makes Mighty Writers so impactful is the community/spaces. Mighty Writers has multiple sites, and when the sites come together, it feels like the community is even bigger. It's not just about grammar, essays, or books. It is about mentorship, belonging, and guidance. It is about creating a space where kids can share their victories and their struggles, knowing that someone is there to listen.
As one student said after the Philadelphia Eagles and Mighty Writers event on Tuesday at Lincoln Financial Field, meeting a supporter and potential mentor can feel like "talking to a big friend." That is exactly what the program provides: trusted voices who listen, guide, and inspire.
Fred Johnson Joins the Mission
When Mighty Writers visited the Philadelphia Eagles, offensive tackle Fred Johnson greeted us at the door. His warm and kind presence brought forth the importance of mentorship and what it means to be a "Mighty Mentor." Johnson connected with the children not as a celebrity, but as someone genuinely interested in their thoughts and dreams.
"I love hearing the youth share their victories and ideas," he said. "A lot of kids don't get to see positive influences every day. If I can make a difference, even if it's just by showing up and making someone smile, I'll gladly do it."
Johnson knows the difference good guidance can make, and his involvement only highlights why Mighty Writers is so vital.
The Eagles themselves underscored this importance when they donated $50,000 to Mighty Writers, ensuring even more kids can experience the life-changing impact of writing and mentorship.
Why Your Support Matters
Mighty Writers thrives because of people who care: Mentors who show up, donors who give generously, and community members who spread the word. Every contribution helps create spaces where kids can learn, grow, and prepare for the future.
Here's how you can make a difference:
Donate: Your gift funds free writing programs, mentorship, and resources for kids who need them most.
Volunteer: Become the "big friend" who listens, guides, and helps young people discover their voice.
Spread the Word: Share the mission with others so more families can connect with the opportunities Mighty Writers provides.
The Bigger Picture
Mighty Writers is not just an afterschool program.
It is a lifeline.
It carried me from middle school through high school, helped me prepare for college, and gave me mentors who still support me today. It is creating that same foundation for thousands of kids right now.
Fred Johnson put it best: "If I can make a change, I'll do it. Anything to make a difference, I would do."
At Mighty Writers, every mentor, donor, and volunteer helps make that change possible. Together, we are not just teaching kids to write. We are building futures that last.
Join us in making a difference. Donate, volunteer, or learn more at mightywriters.org.
