A Light in the Forest
The annual Arboretum Reading, A Light in the Forest, was held at the Houston Arboretum and Nature Center on April 22, 2009. Young writers from all over Houston were invited to read their poetry inspired by nature.
WITS in collaboration with Shell Oil Company and the Houston Arboretum and Nature Center have partnered for several years to create the WITS Environmental Writing Project. This project is about introducing children to the outdoors and giving them an opportunity to experience nature in a personal and meaningful way. The Arboretum Reading is an event that recognizes the best work and achievements of the students who participated in the project.
The Houston Arboretum and Nature Center is a wonderful bastion of wilderness right in the middle of Houston. Within the 155 acre preserve exists a thriving forest consisting of a wide array of species of flora and fauna. During field trips to the Arboretum WITS writers and volunteer Arboretum naturalists accompany small groups of students for walks through the park. While touring the grounds, the volunteers guide the students down the many paths that crisscross the park while pointing out different trees, plants, insects, and other animals they encounter. The students write about their experiences and are asked to be mindful of what they see, feel, and hear. In the process, students who rarely get to experience nature develop a personal connection to the elements and gain an appreciation for the natural world. After developing this relationship, they learn that the natural world is a place in which they have a role to play.
WITS Environmental Writing Project is made possible by generous donations from the Shell Oil Company.
Writers
in the Schools
1523 West Main
Houston, Texas 77006
713.523.3877
866.793.4865 (fax)
1523 West Main
Houston, Texas 77006
713.523.3877
866.793.4865 (fax)
