Mandy Eve-Barnett's Blog for Readers & Writers

Espouse – definition: to make one’s own : adopt or embrace, as a cause

Within my writing circle, it is no secret I am obsessed with writing. Coming to this art later in life has opened up an opportunity not only to experience a wonderful way to express my creativity but also to form new friendships. Part of my bio on the web site states: I count myself blessed to have found this group and I intend to stay until my bones turn to dust! My writing journey has taken me, in a very short time, on a path I never thought possible.

The Writers Foundation of Strathcona County is a marvel in its own right. Here is a brief description:

The WFSC is limited only by the level of its volunteer commitment: as we grow so will opportunities for our groups, our members, and the community. We continue to hone our craft, encourage new members, promote cultural and creative diversity – we have many avenues yet to explore. The following list includes some of our group accomplishments and events we promote annually:

• WFSC partners with the Strathcona County Library to co-host the popular Words in the Park Book Fair and Sale held in the late fall in the Centre in the Park
• WFSC participates and encourages writing interaction at the annual Arts Expo (February) and Alberta Culture Days (September) hosted by the Arts & Culture Council of Strathcona County
• WFSC published its first anthology compilation of member work in 2010 – Writing Prompt Journey ~ The Road to Your Creativity offers a selection of writing prompts to encourage writers
• WFSC published From a Solitary Drop – The History of the Strathcona County Writers Circle (2001 – 2011) in celebration of the Writers Circle 10 year success
• WFSC was asked to manage and publish the popular Never Been Better page that appears in the Sherwood Park News the first Friday of each month – the two page spread celebrates 4 years in 2013 and it’s all because of the popularity of the page and use by its target audience ~ our vibrant 55+ community
• WFSC participated in the inaugural summer for Arts in the Plaza – an outside venue for artists of all mediums to share and interact with community members

Over the years, the WFSC developed partnerships with other community organizations and respects the place we hold within our community. The Strathcona County Library, the Arts and Culture Council of Strathcona County, the Strathcona County Museum & Archives, and Strathcona County Recreation Parks and Culture all support and promote a vibrant arts & culture community… a community of which we are proud to be a part.

In short, I have embraced the foundation and its mandate as well as its members, whether they are local or virtual. Each member brings a new aspect to the group and I have found a ‘home’.