Empowering potential through poetry.
About Out of the Heart
Out of the Heart is a spoken word and poetry development training program designed to bring out the natural ability of aspiring poets, poets looking to get stronger, and those simply seeking the tools to develop a constructive creative outlet. The name of our program comes from Luke 6:45 - For out of the abundance of the heart, the mouth speaks.
The human heart carries so much inside: dreams, passions, hurt, loss, love, pain. It’s the perfect filing cabinet for everything a good poet needs to craft a compelling piece to resonate with someone else carrying those same feelings inside. The name is also a reminder that what comes from our pens and out of our mouths is from a real place. Every word has worth.
Welcome to a space where you can delight in the worth of your words while increasing your skills as a wordsmith and building your confidence as a person. Let the journey begin.
In 2019, Vernon Jackson started The Gifted Event, a program under his nonprofit Gifted Alliance in which he shuts down his entire barber shop to give free haircuts to children with special needs.
As you can imagine, many parents can’t find barbers willing to navigate the challenges of giving a special needs child a haircut. Additionally, many can’t afford it within their budget given how much forms of special needs care can cost. And that’s why The Gifted Event has literally been changing lives, and the world took notice.
At first it was the local news, but eventually, even the The Jennifer Hudson Show was moved by his story. I’m truly honored I was able to creatively contribute to a project intended to amplify awareness for such an impact in our community.
Out of the Heart founder, Laurent Che, donated this spoken word piece called, “G.I.F.T.E.D.” to help amplify the awareness of his cause.
Laurent Che
M.S. - Boston University
| B.B.A. - Kent State University
Welcome to Out of the Heart. I’m your program instructor and I truly can’t wait to get to know you as well as your writing. I’ve been a poet and professional spoken word artist for over 10 years now and I’ve learned a lot about this craft that I’m looking forward to sharing with you. I began writing poetry at 9 years old and started sharing with the world at about 17. I’ve been privileged to perform on stages throughout the country, have my work published in theatrical productions, produce short films based on my poetry, compete in national spoken word competitions, and teach poetry at the college and high school level. Discovering my passion for poetry at an early age allowed me to find my voice, hone my craft, and master the fundamentals of being a strong spoken word artist, all while creating a unique style that set me apart. My hope is to use this workshop experience to do the same for you. Shall we get started?
I’m here to help.
Bring your ideas to life
It all begins with an emotion which then evokes a thought. Make your ideas a reality here.
Build your confidence
We aren’t born with confidence. However confidence can be born in us through the self realization that comes from mastering a craft.
Expand your potential
I want to help you meet your maximum potential. If you’re willing to show me who you are, I’ll do my best to bring out the best you’ve got.