A Writers Gathering: An Invitational Event for Writers

In the documentary Public Speaking, Fran Lebowitz boldly proclaims that in writing, there is no such thing as the child prodigy like there is with music because musicians, such as Mozart, do not have know anything to create music. Writers, on the other hand, must know something. This is where knowledge comes in.

 On Wednesday night, professional writers are invited to be a part of A Writers Gathering — a community-building event that, if all goes according to plan, will see the 100-plus writers collectively hatch the next creative steps for the Grand Rapids Creative Youth Center.

And this is where Ms. Lebowitz is right on the money. In a community full of so much talent, procured over time and devoted to the importance of literary arts, we are sure to unearth the necessary next steps at this fun-filled event that has one simple goal: to empower our area youth with the creative skills imperative to becoming successful adults. Grand Rapids’ CYC give kids the mentoring they need to be better in every way by imparting the writing skills needed in this world to succeed.

This brainstorming session is just one of the many ways the CYC is determined to be an effective way to crowd source for inventive ways to inspire kids to read and write.  

This event, also billed as a way to network with other writers and editors, is going to be filled with interactive games, appetizers, a complimentary first drink and a chance to win even more drinks and prizes from area merchants. If you are still hungry, the upstairs private meeting space hosting this event will enable you to order off the menu, but that is on your on your dime.

CYC’s first book project, A Book of Explosions, was created by young authors aged 6 – 16 from The Cook Arts Center and The Baxter Community Center. The book was self-published and released via a signing event with the young writers at Schuler Books and Music and provided a way to showcase the kids’ creativity.

This first-time event is sponsored financially by the Fehsenfeld Foundation, The Sparrows Coffee Tea & Newsstand and McFadden’s Restaurant & Saloon. Video production is provided by Josh Tyron and event photography compliments of Terry Johnston.

 “We really want to move towards offering more afterschool program with this project in the Grand Rapids Public Schools,” says CYC’s Lori Slager. “According to our research, CYC has determined that one area that is lacking is having enough summer programming devoted to writing.”

CYC, with the help of area writers at this fresh gathering, may have a brilliant solution very soon.


Admission: By Invitation Only, No Walk Ups Admitted.  You can inquire about attending by writing rsvp@creativeyouthcenter.org