Wits End Poetry

Wits End Poetry is working to make poetry as familiar to people in Upstate, SC as it is to people in New York, LA, and Chicago. The power of poetry lies in its appeal and relevance to diverse audiences. Poetry also encourages and develops literacy and creativity in both adults and youth.

We bring poets from across the country to the Upstate, as well as organize live events across the state; provide resources to up-and-coming writers through our website; and promote community building among writers both in the Upstate and across the South East.

Donate

Wits End Poetry is a full 501 (c) (3) tax exempt non-profit and SC charity. Our programs improve literacy and help build creative capital in South Carolina. We are in desparate need of donations to expand our educational programs, as well as to continue to bring nationally recognized poets to our area.

For information on how to donate please email kimberly@witsendpoetry.com or contact 864-525-6957. Checks can also be mailed to PO Box 244, Greenville, SC 29602-0244. All donations are tax deductible. In-kind donations are also appreciated.

Core Mission

1. to advocate, promote, support, witness, and /or perpetuate the art of poetry

2. to promote and encourage poetry events and those who organize them

3. to promote literacy and creativity through the use of poetry in education

This mission will be achieved by

a. sponsoring and supporting poetry events across the Upstate and beyond, as well as developing poetry audiences

b. sponsoring and promoting the Upstate Slam Team Project

c. developing education and community programs which utilize poetry

d. our online website which provides poetry information and resources

Wits End Poetry was founded in September 2002, and since that time we have hosted close to 100 poetry events. Our audience continues to grow dramatically and includes people from diverse backgrounds and age groups. Our sponsors include Link magazine, the Metropolitan Arts Council, and the South East Arts Federation.

In 2004, we hosted the Individual World Poetry Slam in partnership with Poetry Slam Inc. In 2004, we also initiated the Carolina Slam Tour.

Our website Witsendpoetry.com has received over 10,000 hits since its inception.

This year, Wits End Poetry is providing monthly workshops to the community. We are also offering a weekly open mic for both teens and adults. Our future projects include developing literacy programs using poetry, as well as creating summer poetry programs for at-risk teens.