On October 15th, 2024, Vernon Brundage—author of Beyond the Arc—visited the DC Youth Services Center (YSC) to meet with Free Minds members in our youth book club, who had been reading and discussing the book. Beyond the Arc is a story about a young athlete’s perseverance as he tries to go pro while remaining undrafted, a narrative that raptured our youth readers. During his visit, Brundage continued to captivate: he shared his journey as an author, answered insightful questions, and inspired Free Minds’ members to keep pursuing their writing goals.
Members engaged in discussions about their creative projects. Isaiah, one of the participants, proudly shared his progress on a romance novel preliminarily titled You Snooze You Lose. Another group of members asked for feedback on a collaborative urban novel they were excited to bring to life. Brundage encouraged the budding authors to keep writing, emphasizing persistence and the power of self-expression.
In response, Isaiah highlighted the transformative impact of literacy programs. Reflecting on his personal growth, he revealed, “I’m supposed to be in 12th grade now. I stopped going to school when I was in 9th grade. Then, I was at a 5th-grade reading level. It’s been a year here, and now I’m reading at about my grade level.” His words underscore the profound influence of education, reading, writing, and perseverance—even in challenging circumstances.
Members were eager to ask Brundage questions about his book, Beyond the Arc. Another participant, Maui posed a thought-provoking question: “After writing your book, what do you know now that you wish your younger self knew?”
Brundage responded by sharing a personal story about his younger years, emphasizing the importance of self-belief. He told the group, “Believe in yourself and your capabilities.” His honesty and openness resonated with members, who asked additional questions about his inspiration for writing and his goals for readers.
Brundage spoke about the importance of relying on a support network and emphasized the value of community. “There are people who are willing to pour into you. You can’t go at life by yourself,” he told us. His message echoes Free Minds’ principles of resilience and growth, fostered through community support and collective strength.
“There is no such thing as self-made.”
Vernon Brundage, sharing a realization from the book writing process.
His message underscores the vitality of community in achieving your goals.
At the conclusion of the visit, Brundage signed copies of his book for Free Minds’ members and staff, leaving them with words of encouragement. His visit not only inspired our members to pursue their dreams but also underscored the importance of persistence, creativity, and entrusting others to help lift you up.
Thank you to Vernon Brundage, the YSC staff, and Maya Angelou Academy for making this impactful author visit possible.