EXCELSIOR SPRINGS, Mo. – Excelsior Springs recently welcomed a new monthly writers’ group, a space for local writers of all genres to connect, share, and grow in their craft. The new group, facilitated by Jill Clark, an award-winning children’s book author and poet, encourages creativity and supports writers on their journeys, whether they’re beginners or seasoned authors. The group meets each month to offer constructive feedback, share tips, and inspire each other’s work, creating an environment of collaboration where members can refine their skills and explore new ideas.
Writing groups like this one can be incredibly beneficial for writers, offering a community and a consistent structure that encourages regular writing and feedback. Participants can find fresh perspectives on their work, learn new techniques, and develop a sense of accountability that helps keep them motivated.
Groups often serve as a safe space to test out ideas, build confidence, and strengthen writing skills with the support of others who understand the challenges and joys of writing. In a community-oriented setting, members gain inspiration from others’ successes and receive the encouragement they need to keep pushing forward, making it a perfect resource for writers looking to grow.
Excelsior Springs writers’ group taps into Clark’s experience and dedication to writing. Jill’s background includes her published works in children’s literature, prose, and poetry and her role leading the Village Café Writers group online for the regional Society of Volusia County Florida Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators. Her work spans multiple genres and formats, with her writing featured in a range of journals, newspapers, and book series. Her works include contributions to the “Vanishing” series, which educates middle-grade readers on endangered species across different ecosystems, and her award-winning children’s books Loose Balloons and Where Do Balloons Land?, beloved for their whimsical yet thought-provoking themes. Her passion and insight are valuable assets to the group, adding depth to the discussions and helping members navigate paths to possible publication.
Clark decided to begin the local group after she and her husband, John, returned to her hometown after residing in Florida. She purchased a home in her childhood neighborhood near the Elms Hotel. She said the atmosphere of Excelsior Springs resembles her love for her family and creates a “warm, striving and creative atmosphere,” making Excelsior the perfect place to start a writer’s group.
For now, meetings take place at Clark’s home on the third Monday of each month, with the next gathering on November 18th at 5:30 p.m. To accommodate the holiday season, December’s meeting will be held on the second Monday, December 9th. Writers interested in joining this community can reach out to Jill Clark at jillclark2write@gmail.com for more information.
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