Join The Literacy Network (LitNet) and Isaiah Stavchansky, instructor of the Restless Books Immigrant Writing Lab, for a writing workshop centered on constructing and sharing stories about immigration and family ancestry. By honing the inherent power of storytelling, participants will write about their experiences, memories, and feelings regarding their individual homelands and the journeys of arriving here – whether those stories are recent or centuries old. Anchored by the belief that all linguistic abilities are sufficient to tell a memorable story, this workshop will give participants the tools—creative, stylistic, psychological, linguistic—to confidently write and share their stories with one another and the community. All levels of English are welcome. 

Isaiah Stavchansky is a Mexican-American actor, writer, editor, and educator. His work has been developed and performed with The Workshop Theater, Atlantic Acting School, The Williamstown Theatre Festival, The Tank NYC, and Kenyon College. He has performed at The Williamstown Theatre Festival, Chautauqua Theater Company, and The Wellfleet Harbor Actors Theater. He is a graduate of Kenyon College and Atlantic Acting School. 

The Literacy Network has been offering free, one-on-one tutoring sessions for adults since 1991. LitNet’s flexible, personalized approach to tutoring enables adult learners to succeed in their jobs, support their families, and engage with their local communities. The organization began by teaching reading skills, and LitNet quickly expanded its curriculum with lessons in English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL), citizenship test preparation, and adult basic education to better serve the large population of immigrants who live and work in the Berkshires.

The Community Voices Project fosters meaningful collaborations between The Mount and regional community partners. Through discussions, workshops, readings, and events, the Project aims to nurture and support the development of bold, new storytelling that strengthens diverse voices and incites cross-cultural exchange.

The Community Voices Project is supported by a grant awarded by Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation’s Arts Build Community initiative with funding from the Barr Foundation.

This event is FREE and open to the public!
Seating is limited, registration is recommended:

Interested in becoming a Mount Member? Join today.

• This one-hour workshop takes place in The Mount’s Stable Auditorium, an indoor, climate controlled venue adjacent to the parking lot. Limited accessible parking is available in front of the Stable.
• Seating for all programs at The Mount is first come, first served. If you have seating preferences, we recommend arriving fifteen minutes early.
• Accessible seating is available! Please phone us in advance to discuss arrangements: 413-551-51111; ext. #2

Questions? Email: programs@edithwharton.org

What accessibility accommodations does The Mount offer? The Mount is a Massachusetts Cultural Council UP designated organization welcoming participants of all disabilities. Please contact us by phone: 413-551-5100 or by email: info@edithwharton.org to discuss accommodations needed to participate fully in this event. Golf carts will be available to shuttle those with mobility concerns between the parking lot and event venue. View The Mount’s Health and Safety Guidelines.