The AWA method is a strengths-based, appreciative inquiry method of prompted writing that celebrates each writer’s unique voice; it believes that the deepening of craft can be explored without harm to the writer’s unique voice. Founded by Pat Schneider, author of “Writing Alone and With Others,” The AWA affirmations are: 1. Everyone has a strong, unique voice. 2.Everyone is born with creative genius. 3.Writing as an art form belongs to all people, regardless of economic class or education level. 4.The teaching of craft can be done without damage to a writer's original voice or artistic self-esteem. 5. A writer is someone who writes. It is non-hierarchical and empowering, creates a circle of trust, confidentiality and safety in which to take writerly risks, mirrors the strengths of fresh prompted writing, teaches craft organically and collegially, strives to use diverse prompts from underrepresented writes’ voices, and employs deep listening, leaving assumptions and preconceived notions behind. The facilitator writes along with participants, taking the same risks and sharing their work as well. Feedback of this fresh writing is strengths-based, (and suggestions on how to make a good piece even better are reserved for an editing circle.)

“AWA is a writing method that offers a dedicated time to write in a safe space and provides immediate and encouraging feedback.” —Sue Reynolds, Chair AWA