The Dwellers will screen on Monday, April 20, 2026 at 5:00PM at the Hanesbrands Theatre.
The Dwellers Documentary
In the summer of 2023 we followed 8 congregants of The Dwelling as they participated in Authoring Action’s creative writing process.
Authoring Action is a nonprofit organization that uses a unique creative writing process to transform the lives of individuals and communities. Through creative writing, spoken word, visual and media arts, filmmaking, and leadership education, the organization works to inspire positive systemic change.
The Dwelling is a faith community in Winston-Salem that affirms the dignity and belonging of people living on the margins. In a world that often tells them they do not belong, The Dwelling is a church that boldly proclaims that the world has it wrong.
The Participants
GARY
Gary grew up as an army brat and later enlisted in the Navy; by the age of 19, he had traveled around the world. After getting out of prison, he moved to Winston-Salem, where he was homeless for nine years.
DAWN
Dawn was a victim of childhood trauma. After growing up in a family culture of secrecy, Dawn then also experienced an adult relationship involving domestic abuse. She and her two children lived in a car and on the streets.
JULIUS
Julius has been living on the streets for years and has been in and out of jail. He is currently in the process of securing housing.
KESHA
Kesha—a childhood trauma survivor—is a mother of five; she had her first child at age 14. Crushing grief after the death of a client during her 20 years as a CNA led to her depression, substance abuse, and homelessness in both Charlotte and Winston-Salem.
BOOKER
Booker came to Winston-Salem after a stint in prison. No longer incarcerated, he works two part-time jobs and lives in a tent.
ASHLEY
Ashley is a young woman with an infant son. Her family kicked her out of the house and had her arrested; after jail, she became homeless and lost custody of her son.
JERRICK
Jerrick is a vibrant young man who considers himself a nomad rather than homeless, explaining that he lives this nomadic life by choice.
DANIELLE
Danielle is a young woman with two young children who are not currently with her; she struggles with ADHD and works toward the day she can secure a job and reunite with her kids.
Original Songs by Our Participants
VOICES FROM THE DWELLING
At the completion of the Authoring Action creative writing process, five participants presented an engagement — a staged reading of their writing.