Between the Lines: 

Online videochats with the real Freedom Writers

We are excited to announce our newest program, designed to bring the original Freedom Writers right into your classroom or organization using online tools such as Skype to answer questions, serve as inspirational role models, and provide general encouragement!  Freedom Writers can share their personal stories and interact directly with the audience, answering questions that may come up after reading The Freedom Writers Diary or watching the movie Freedom Writers.

How does it work?
You must have access to a computer equipped with video instant message or videoconferencing software such as Skype, speakers, and a reliable internet connection. For groups of five or more, it’s best to connect the computer to speakers and a screen so that all may hear and see.  We will test your connection in advance of your scheduled videochat. You simply call the Freedom Writers Foundation using your videochat program at the scheduled time, and you can see and hear the Freedom Writer and engage in conversation!  The videochat does not take place via emailed questions.  Instead, your group actually asks questions and the Freedom Writer answers- live!

How long is a Videochat?
Videochats last for one hour. They can be longer based on your needs.

Who will participate in the Videochat?
Your group will get to speak with one of the original Freedom Writer students. These are the real students whose stories are compiled in the book The Freedom Writers Diary, and who are portrayed in the film Freedom Writers. The Freedom Writers who will participate are experienced public speakers, who often deliver inspirational presentations to students, educators, and other audiences.  An adult must be present in your group during every videochat.

What will the Videochat consist of?
The videochat can be thought of as a Q&A session. The Freedom Writer will answer your questions in detail, and in doing so share their own personal stories.  The Freedom Writers share stories of overcoming childhoods affected by poverty, gang violence, substance abuse, physical and mental abuse, learning disabilities, racial discrimination, and many other challenges.  Most of the Freedom Writers never expected to graduate high school, or in some cases, even survive it. Click here for more on the Freedom Writers. 

Their uplifting talks focus on the power of the pen, and how reading and journaling began a long process of introspection for them, which ultimately re-charted their lives. The Freedom Writers speak of their incredible transformation and their successful work today.  Sessions can be tailored to focus on topics such as:

• The power of reading, writing, and finding one’s own voice
• Diversity and tolerance
• Avoiding involvement with gangs and the criminal justice system
• Having pride in one’s heritage and becoming a positive role model
• The key to their teacher’s success
• Other themes by special request 

What kind of questions should you ask?
This is entirely up to you.  Brainstorming and writing out sample questions can be a great classroom assignment for students.  We require a list of sample questions prior to the videochat. 

Can you request a specific Freedom Writer?
No, but on your application form you can specify any particular issues/experiences you would like the Freedom Writer to discuss. We will then do our best to match you with a Freedom Writer who has experienced such things and can speak about them. 

Are the videochats only done in English?
There are Freedom Writers who speak Spanish as well.

How long does it take to schedule a Videochat?
Please submit your request approximately three weeks in advance of the desired videochat date. Within one week of submitting your application, you will receive an email to confirm a date/time for your videochat. If you have a shorter timeframe in mind, please contact Lisa@freedomwritersfoundation.org.

What if there are technical difficulties during your Videochat?
Videochat programs such as Skype are simple and user-friendly. However, it is recommended that you have your organization’s IT technician present during the videochat in case of difficulties.  We recommend doing a quick test of the connection prior to the actual videochat. If there are technical difficulties during your videochat we can re-schedule.

Does Erin Gruwell do Videochats?
At this time, Ms. Gruwell is not doing Videochats.  Please contact her Assistant for more information at Linda@freedomwritersfoundation.org. 

How much does it cost?
We suggest $100 for a one hour videochat with an original Freedom Writer. The Freedom Writers Foundation is a small nonprofit organization which funds its programs through generous contributions from individuals and organizations. Your contribution will compensate the Freedom Writer for their time and contribute to all of the Freedom Writers Foundation programs. Just like the original Freedom Writers did, we encourage you and your students to fundraise together. Click here for fundraising ideas.

 *If you are interested in hosting an in-person speaking engagement by the Freedom Writers, please click here.

Instructions:

 Policies:

• We MUST receive payment AND the list of sample questions at least 48 hours prior to the scheduled videochat, or the videochat will have to be re-scheduled for a later date.
• Videochats may NOT be recorded under any circumstances.
• Videochats are designed for the educational purpose of discussing the Freedom Writers story only.

Application