Knicks Poetry Slam was created in 2003 to reach today's high school youth by using the popularity of hip-hop and poetry as a vehicle to motivate and inspire expression through the written and spoken word. With the growth of the program, the Knicks and program partner Urban Word NYC have provided greater opportunities for high school students to use their poetic skills and talents to pursue higher education. The program serves over 10,000 students annually through school site visits, a Poetry Open Audition, a College Fair, workshops and Poetry Slams.
The Knicks Poetry Slam Program is broken up into two contests, spoken word and written. Participants have the option of performing poetry live or competing online through KnicksPoetrySlam.com. The Knicks and Urban Word NYC decided to make the program year-round in May 2008 by adding a Summer Slam Series with the NY Liberty. The 2008-2009 Program will provide more than $200,000 in college grants and prizes.
SPONSORS
Hymowitz Children's Educational Foundation, Inc. The Joan Goldstein Education Foundation
