Building a Writing Community

Nov 17, 2024

Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of watching Lacombe’s writing community flourish. Nestled in central Alberta, our town has been steadily nurturing an environment where writers, readers, and literary enthusiasts can come together to share stories, ideas, and inspiration.

It’s been a collaborative effort, with the Lacombe Performing Arts Centre (LPAC) taking the lead in offering spaces and opportunities for creative growth. The LPAC has emerged as a dynamic hub for artistic expression, extending its reach to include writers alongside its vibrant lineup of music, theater, and visual arts.

I’ve had the joy of contributing to this growing community by running eight-week writing bootcamps. These intensive sessions are designed to help emerging writers hone their craft and develop the confidence to share their work. For those looking for something less structured, our Brave New Writing program offers a stress-free environment where writers can simply show up, put pen to paper (or fingers to keyboard), and enjoy the camaraderie of like-minded creatives.

LPAC has been instrumental in creating opportunities for writers to share their voices. Regular open-mic nights now allow local storytellers to stand before a rapt audience of friends, family, and community members, bringing their words to life. This past year also marked several milestones, including our first-ever writer retreat, where participants spent the day immersed in creativity and learning, and an unforgettable evening with Ali Bryan, a celebrated Alberta author, who shared her insights and inspirations.

I believe that everyone has a story to tell. In a world that often feels disconnected, stories remind us of our shared humanity. But it sometimes takes more than just courage to put words on a page; it takes a safe space and a supportive community of allies to help those words meet the world.

That’s why building bridges between writers and readers is so important. When these two groups come together, magic happens. Writers feel heard, and readers discover new perspectives and voices. This exchange strengthens the fabric of our community.

Here in Lacombe, we’re not just building a writing community—we’re creating a space where stories can thrive, voices can be heard, and connections can flourish. And I couldn’t be prouder to be a part of it.

Recent Articles