In addition to being a talented poet, one of Juelz's greatest strengths lies in his interactions with young people. He has an intuition that allows him to identify which students need his attention the most, and the transformation seen in some of these students has truly been amazing.

     

Abigail Eggert

Hershey Middle School Teacher

 

Julian is a remarkably talented man who puts his raw emotions and painful experiences on paper, leaving his readers charged up and inspired by his poetic tales of the urban experience. I hope his gifts will encourage others to learn, leave their old ways behind and push forward to a better life.

     

Patty Kim

Pennsylvania State Representative

 

I am writing to recommend Juelz Davenport as a poet and presenter for teen programs. Juelz poetry speaks to students and his presentation style is professional, yet student friendly. He has experience working with public and private schools and has developed writing workshops to complement poetry events. Juelz can inspire writers because he speaks about his life experience and how it has inspired him to write poetry. His friendly, energetic and real approach keeps a captive audience. Juelz writes poetry for all ages, as he has done readings for preschool and elementary students all the way up to high school. I highly recommend Juelz for any poetry events or workshops you might be planning. Sincerely, Jennifer Hendry Library Media Specialist

     

Jennifer Hendry

Library Media Specialist for 31 years

 

I wanted to take a moment to send you a very sincere and heartfelt thank you for taking the time to talk with our youth at the Annual Independent Living Symposium on June 21, 2013. I was amazed at how you captivated the attention of the teens (and adults too). I have never seen them so attentive to a speaker as they were with you. I appreciate your willingness to talk with our youth about the struggles in your own life and how you overcame the roadblocks and adversities to become a success. I received a ton of positive comments regarding your presentation. Just a few of the comments were: Juelz message was one of hope and encouragement Juelz showed me that anyone can rise above their past No matter how far into a bad situation you are, you can get our of it. Can Juelz come back again and talk? You certainly do have a way with reaching out and touching other people's lives. I wish you continued success in your endeavors to help facilitate positive change in the lives of young people. Again, a huge thank you for a very well presented program. I look forward to working with you again.

     

SANDY BOWEN

Cumberland County Children And Youth Services

 

I am writing this letter of reference for Poet, Julian Davenport, a young man that I have great respect for. Julian has worked with me in the After-School Explorer Program of the Harrisburg School District, and the Reader Are Leaders program of the Camp Curtin YMCA. In addition to these two on-going projects, Julian has also presented to the Dauphin County Human Services, Children and Youth Division. He was very well received by the young people in these programs. He has a way of "keeping it real" without being "Ghetto" as some are prone to do when addressing today's youth. Julian is perfect example of a young man that "gets it." He has made his share of mistakes and has payed dearly for it. He is also someone who has taken his mistakes and lifted himself up, by taking full responsiblity for his life. He has written his first book of poetry, and is working on a CD, that speaks to the struggles of our youth today. What I like about his work is that he tells if from his perspective, but is mindful that what he says has power. I had the pleasure of taking Julian and another poet to the 2011 Celebration of Black Writing in Philadelphia, PA, and the 2011 Harlem book fair, in Harlem, New York. I could clearly see that he was excited about the opportunity to display his craft, and grow through experience. I look forward to a long relationship with this fine young talent, who has a bright future helping develop the minds of our youth.

     

Nathaniel Gadsden

Writers Workshop

 

The Pennsylvania Steam Academy welcomed Juelz Davenport to our building on December 16, 2021. My rationale for inviting Juelz was to help our students grow to love reading, writing and poetry. Students deserve to understand the creative process, and find success in creating something built from their own life stories. Students were fascinated to learn about Mr. Davenports personal triumphs and challenges through the words he expressed on paper. His authentic nature and obvious love for children created some lively discussions and work within the classrooms. Juelz has this unique way of connecting everyone in the room, and making them a part of the bigger picture. Perhaps what I find most enjoyable about listening and watching him work with our students is his ability to really listen. The wisdom in children is often lost on busy adults in the hustle of life. Juelz prioritizes their thoughts, ideas and perspectives...and because of this....has them deeply connected to learning and creating because they are finally being heard. Students work cooperatively in groups under his direction, and he makes every opportunity to lift up and empower each student while also finding time to share jokes and evoke laughter. In less than 2 hours I was able to experience a typically withdrawn student stand on a chair and recite the most compelling poem about macaroni and cheese! I love that Juelz is unapologetically human. His real struggles on the streets of Harrisburg, resonate with my students. His mistakes are now his fuel that keeps him growing and giving back to those with similar stories. He is a role model for all, but especially for African American males who now see Poetry and the Arts as not only enjoyment but a potential career path! I could never say enough good things about Juelz Davenport. Don’t miss an opportunity to give your students the experience of his time and talents. The learning culture of your building will improve and the energy and enthusiasm towards writing and creating will increase tremendously. I’m so thankful he was able to gift my students a love for poetry and you will not be disappointed. Jennifer Morrison CEO/Principal – Pennsylvania Steam Academy

     

PA STEAM ACADEMY

 

May 2022 To Whom It May Concern: I am writing this reference at the request of Juelz Davenport. I have known Juelz for more than a decade. We briefly went to school together back in the early 2000s. Juelz spent most of his childhood going to school in the Harrisburg Area School District, where I happen to currently be employed as a third grade teacher at Ben Franklin Elementary. Our third grade students had the pleasure of an inspirational visit from Juelz on April 13, 2022. Juelz came into each of our five third grade classrooms and read several poems from his poetry book for children titled “In My Little Eyes.” Juelz did not just come in to my classroom, sit down, and read. He first made meaningful connections with my students by asking questions about themselves and making them laugh. He really did an amazing job capturing their attention, which is something that can be somewhat difficult to do! Harrisburg Area School District is an urban district, and most students are growing up in an urban culture, so seeing Juelz relate to them made them light up with enthusiasm. They could not get enough of his poems! Juelz read each poem with animation and articulation. He would briefly talk about each poem before he read it to keep the students engaged. When he was finished reading, he spent time listening to comments and patiently answering any questions the students had for him. (They had A LOT to say!) He also gave out autographs to students, and cool pencils that he provided himself. He took the time to do this for all five classrooms. I have been teaching with the Harrisburg Area School District for six years and I can honestly say that I have not had a visitor that has seemed to inspire my students as much as Juelz did. Any school would be lucky to have a visit from Juelz. In conclusion, I would highly recommend Juelz Davenport. If his performance in my class is any indication of how he would perform in any given available position, Juelz will be an extremely positive addition. If you need any additional information, feel free to contact me by telephone or email at aallen@hbgsd.k12.pa.us anytime. Sincerely, Ashley Allen

     

Ms. Ashley Allen

Ben Franklin Elementary

 

Julian Davenport is extraordinary. Putting real-life highly-emotional situations to poetic verse, his performance is compelling, transformative, and flawless. He will blow you away and will affect your worldview for the days to come. In his youth workshops, he instills empowerment and creativity in the minds and hands of teenagers. Julian provides a kind of therapy for young people - helping them to put what is in their hearts and minds to paper. His work is invaluable.

     

Erin Adams

Creative Worship & Communications Director

 

HARRISBURG CAPITAL CITY REGION 506 S. 29th Street • Harrisburg, PA 17104 Tel: 717.233.6755 • Fax: 717.231.3650 www.salvationarmyharrisburg.org August 23, 2023 Letter of Recommendation To Whom It May Concern, The Salvation Army contracted with Julian Davenport for our school age summer and after school programs which are 21st Century Community Learning Centers. These programs are designed to boost participants academics while holistically providing enrichment for their body, mind and spirit. In addition, our programs incorporate parent and family engagement opportunities. As the school day ends and students shift into out of school time it is essential that we include structured, dynamic, engaging, and fun opportunities for learning for our students. Julian was recommended by our partner school principal, and we contracted his services for creative writing workshops and purchased copies of his book, In My Little Eyes. We wanted our students to not only meet a local author and poet but to also read his book and be inspired. In the classroom, Julian's energy and charm generate excitement that captivates even the most hesitant of students. His ability to build rapport and his love for writing cultivates a learning atmosphere that inspires creativity and boosts the confidence of our young learners. Throughout the creative writing sessions, students were able to improve their speaking, writing, reading, and listening skills, and were given opportunities to share and present their writing with one another. Julian successfully conducted a workshop for the parents in our after-school program. The session was designed to mirror his classroom activities with the students. Julian's skill in working with people of all ages and his dedication to the community were clearly demonstrated and our parents and caregivers felt comfortable and encouraged to engage and learn alongside their children. Julian is creative and committed to connecting youth with positive outlets for self-expression – and we have enjoyed incorporating his energy and enthusiasm in our programs. Sincerely, Jenny Gallagher Blom Director of Programs and Operations

     

Jenny Gallagher Blom

Director of programs and Operations

 

Julian Davenport provided an incredible poetry workshop for our multi-generational audience. He was well-organized, professional, and down-to-earth. His encouragement really brought out the best in the participants. As a facilitator, he strikes the ideal balance of demonstrating the creative power of poetry and making it accessible for all skill levels. I would highly recommend his workshop offerings to any organization. - Julia Mallory, TEN OH! SIX

     

Julian Mallory

Poet and Workshop Facilitator

 

Pottsgrove High School had the privilege of welcoming Julian "Juelz" Davenport, literary poet, into our school community. His visit invigorated our learners with not only a relatable presence but also a powerful spark of interest in poetry and literacy. Juelz has a unique ability to connect with students on a personal level, sharing both his inspirational story and his craft in a way that resonates deeply. His workshops and presentations encourage students to explore their own voices through writing and spoken word, creating a safe space for self-expression and creativity. As National Library Week and National Poetry Month approach each April, I cannot imagine a better guest to engage students in the celebration of literacy and the arts. Bringing in an artist from Pennsylvania like Juelz not only highlights the richness of local talent but also helps students see themselves reflected in his journey and achievements. Whether through a schoolwide assembly or in smaller group settings with clubs such as Newspaper, Yearbook, or Art, Juelz's impact is undeniable. He inspires students to think critically, write authentically, and share courageously. I would highly recommend Julian "Juelz' Davenport for any poetry, literacy, or inspirational program. His presence will motivate and empower students while fostering an appreciation for the beauty and power of words. Yours in literacy,

     

Dani Small

Potts Grove

 

Nov 12, 2025 To whom it may concern: BuildaBridge is a 501 (c) (3) nonprofit organization based in Northwest Philadelphia. In operation for over 20 years, BuildaBridge leverages the power of art-making as a tool for healing and hope-raising. BuildaBridge’s trauma-informed pedagogy uses metaphor-based art-making to strengthen resilience, self-efficacy and hopefulness for trauma-affected youth and their communities. Juelz Davenport joined BuildaBridge in 2024 after training to be a BuildaBridge Teaching Artist. The training included a history of BuildaBridge’s impact, learning BuildaBridge’s trauma-informed, strength-based, and person-centered pedagogy called the Safe Spaces Model, Trauma 101, and facilitation techniques. Over the past year and a half, Juelz has embodied the BuildaBridge ethos and brought forth his incredible skill set as a writer, poet, mentor and more into many workshops. In particular, one of the partner organizations, JFCS, a human service provider, has called upon Juelz to be part of their summer programming that prepares Philadelphia youth for the workforce. Through prose and poetry, Juelz provides an opportunity to reenvision their role in society and foster hope-infused futures beyond their status. This past summer, Juelz became a recognizable figure at two recreation centers in North Philadelphia that are situated in neighborhoods plagued by violence, drug use, poverty and more. His poetry became a salve for the present and momentum for the future of the neighborhood. Juelz’s story resonates with his participants. Often, they see a little bit of themselves in Juelz as Juelz sees in them. However, Juelz looks much deeper into his participants and,d through affirmation and mentorship, draws out the best of them. When Juelz facilitates with BuildaBridge, he uses his “My Society” poem to illustrate and reveal his narrative as a transformative story that belongs to him as much as his audience. “My Society” is an impactful and evocative display of the transformative and therapeutic value of art-making. When not in the field, Juelz makes himself readily available for discourse and brainstorming for future programming. He communicates clearly and reliably, making him a vital part of BuildaBridge’s team. Juelz’s vision for the future aligns beautifully with BuildaBridge’s work - to see today’s youth’s tomorrow nurtured by their resilience, agency, and hope-infused future via the power of art-making.

     

Build a Bridge

Non-profit

https://www.buildabridge.org/

 

Juelz is an incredible voice of this generation. Three years ago, he came to Saint Joseph’s Catholic Academy, where I was the principal at that time, to give a keynote speech about overcoming personal challenges, utilizing his personal voice and creative gifts to find inner strength to persevere, and inspiring others to lift each other up. He coordinated small group exercises and breakout discussions - all of which our students enthusiastically participated in! Juelz’s voice is original, authentic, and relatable. All the components of a memorable speaker, and someone who will leave an impact on students (and teachers!) alike. He went the extra mile even after the Leadership Day at SJCA — he brought the noise and the support for our students on social media, who followed him and rapaciously devoured his poetry books he left behind for our school book nook. Juelz even recorded a video graduation message just for our Class of 2023; the dedication to his craft is admirable, and his connection with our students was remarkable. Juelz and his IME message are what every school, every student needs to find a voice and move our communities forward. Anna L. Rupprecht, MA, MEd Executive Director, Columbus Chapel & Boal Mansion Museum arupprecht@maryu.marywood.edu

     

Anna Rupprecht

Executive Director