Over two dozen Russell area residents—educators, community organizers, pastors, owners of restaurants and bars, a domestic worker, an urban farmer, a clothing designer, an engineer, a musician, a welder, a violence disrupter, a distillery worker, a “neighborhood momma,” and more—have written If You Write Me a Letter, Send it Here. Their book memorably documents some of the rich layers of history and culture in the neighborhood’s past and present, and their hopes and concerns for the future. 

The Louisville Story Program strengthens the bonds of community by amplifying unheard voices and untold stories. Through rigorous writing and oral history workshops, and with professional editorial support, participating LSP authors from historically underrepresented communities document the richness of lived experience in Louisville communities from the inside out, and in their own words. Their work is published in professionally designed books, exhibits, and radio programs that promote dialogue across the community and increase awareness of overlooked aspects of Louisville's culture and history. Our authors are paid for their work, and we leverage their achievements into as many additional professional, educational, cultural, and social opportunities for them as possible.