Mason Holmes, 9th Grade, Battle Creek
When I was in 7th grade, my teacher, Mrs. Roberts, received a grant to have Kinetic Affect come into our classroom to help us write spoken word poetry. Kinetic Affect was one of the best things that had ever happened to me. It inspired me to start working on poetry to get my mind off other things happening in my life. Until this day I still write poetry because of how big an impact working with Kinetic Affect had on me. It helped me get things out that I had kept bottled in for so long about school and how I really felt about my grades. I can honestly say that I really wish everyone could get the chance to work with them. I think they’d inspire so many more than me. Thank you Kinetic Affect for giving me the opportunity to work with you and thank you for inspiring me to express how I feel through my spoken word poetry.
Hi, I graduated from high school at Kalamazoo Central 3 years ago…I just wanted to let you know that lately, whenever I need something empowering, I listen to your words. Since graduating I’ve moved to New York and I’ve been sharing your words and stories here and you’ve got many fans here now. I hope you’re both doing well, and I just wanted to tell you how much I appreciate you.
-Bridin Clements
…I was at Lakeside Academy and attended the classes that were put on by Speak It Forward. I loved and appreciated what you did for me and my fellow peers. It has been almost a year and a half since I left and I’m doing much better now. The things you taught me I still use to this day. Thank you.
-Karla Nusly
I still wear my shirt from your first performance downtown Kalamazoo. Circa 2006 or so… You guys are the TRUTH!!!
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