 Illuminate the Future
Relational imagination is what happens when inner voice and shared story meet.
Join us on a year-long journey to illuminate the future of youth creativity – and the creative spark that connects us all.
For seventeen years, the Inklings Book Contest has been a beloved highlight of our year. Now, we’re widening the circle, creating more year-round opportunities for youth storytellers to belong, grow, and shine.
This campaign fuels scholarships, deepens mentorship, strengthens creative leadership, and lays the foundation for sustainable growth.
Illuminating the Trail
Nov 2025 – Dec 2026
Each chapter will unfold as our story continues. Step through the door with us.
As we travel together, we’ll unlock stories, tools, and glimpses of the world we’re building.
FEATURED EVENTS
Step into the story with us. Each event is a touchpoint along the journey.Â
OUR NEXT EVENT:
Creative Compass Talk: How the Mind Maps Meaning
November 14, 2025 | 5:30–6:30 PM PT | Online via Zoom
Our first Creative Compass gathering explores how story shapes the way we think, create, and lead. This interactive talk invites participants to explore how imagination can help us build a more vibrant creative culture together.
This event is designed for teens and adults, and includes helpful takeaways for creative thinkers, educators, and leaders.
Calendar of EVENTS
These gatherings are open to campaign supporters and community members alike.
Click on any event for more info and an RSVP link.
THE IMPACT OF YOUR GIFT
Voice builds bridges between people, across difference, and toward possibility.Â
When youth discover the power of their voices, they don’t just create stories. They shape the future.Â
- Last year, 5 out of 6 young Inklings participated through scholarships or free-of-cost programming, including youth leadership cohorts, mentorships, and the Inklings Book Contest.
- With your support, you help ensure that access remains at the heart of everything we do.
- You widen the circle of youth who are finding creative confidence, community, and belonging.
Learn More: What Voice Is and Why It Matters
OUR FUNDING FOCUS
Your gift not only lights a lantern. It strengthens the trail for years to come.
This campaign will raise $150,000–$200,000 over the next year to:
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Strengthen Creative Leadership — so our programs are led with vision, skill, and consistency.
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Expand Access — increasing scholarships, youth leadership opportunities, and publishing pathways.
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Build for the Future — ensuring this work is sustainable for the next generation of Inklings.
Full campaign details for funders are available upon request.
WAYS TO PARTICIPATE
Every story needs travelers, and travelers need supporters along their way.
Fuel the Momentum
Your gift provides scholarships, supports youth leadership, and builds sustainable creative spaces for the next generation of storytellers.
Widen the Circle
Schools, libraries, and community partners help us expand access and deepen belonging. Partnership sparks new pathways for creative voices.
Spread the Light
Every time you tell someone about Illuminate the Future, the circle grows. Share a story, a post, or a creative spark that inspired you.
And … would you like to walk alongside us as a fellow traveler?
When you follow the journey, you’ll receive a creative prompt with each new chapter. We’ll invite you to reflect, imagine, and step boldly into your own unfolding story. Relational imagination isn’t only for youth. Everyone has a singular voice. With creativity and collaboration, you can be part of Illuminating the Future, too.
BE PART OF THE STORY
A brighter creative future doesn’t happen alone. It happens when many voices light the way together.
Whether you give, partner, share, or walk the journey with us, your contribution adds to this hope-filled story.
This is the work of relational imagination – creating the future together through story.
Society of Young Inklings is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. EIN: 46-2971012
Your donation is tax-deductible to the fullest extent allowed by law.Â
