I am a writer, and a teacher, in no small part due to the life-changing experiences I had as a student (and later, as a staff member and teacher) at the Young Writers Workshop. Established in 1982, it has fostered both talent and friendship — a sense of the importance of a community of artists — among hundreds (thousands?) of teens from across the United States and beyond.
They have recently updated their website, and I urge you to check it out HERE.
If you know a young person (high school age) who is passionate about writing, I would recommend that you look into the Workshop as a summer program possibility. If you are a teacher of high school students, please help spread the word. I am happy to answer questions!