826! New Orleans is the largest youth writing network in the country! We serve as an international proof point for writing as a tool for young people to ignite and channel their creativity, explore identity, advocate for themselves and their community, and achieve academic and professional success.  826 New Orleans (formerly Big Class) is the only chapter of 826 in the Southern US. We're dedicated to cultivating and supporting the voices of New Orleans' writers ages 3-18 through creative collaborations with schools and communities. We offer free writing programs and publishing opportunities at our Youth Writing Center in the 7th Ward and in schools across the city. Our staff and volunteers help students improve their literacy skills, become published authors, and understand the power of their voices on and off the page. Since 2010 we’ve served over 4,000 students and created over 100 publications of student work with the help of over 400 volunteers!