”The most common way people give up their power is by thinking they don’t have any.”
—Alice Walker
THEN AND NOW
Celebrate Our 10-Year Anniversary
CONFLUENCE: A Gala and Fundraiser for Our Future
Join us for a beautiful evening at our 10th Anniversary Gala—a celebration of a decade spent empowering voices and building community through writing in Jacksonville, Florida.
- When: December 7, 4:30–9 p.m.
- Where: The Riverside House, Jacksonville, FL
Since our very first writing circle around a dining room table in 2014, we’ve connected hundreds of writers, artists, and community members across Jacksonville. Let’s come together to honor this shared journey of voices, stories, and dreams.
Evening Highlights
- Keynote Address at 4:30 p.m. by Kimberly Voss, UCF professor, sharing insights on the powerful impact of women on journalism and storytelling in Florida. This is a free, ticketed event immediately preceding the gala.
- Cocktail Reception at 6 p.m. featuring hors d’oeuvres by Niques Eats, drinks by Mr. Barrtenderr, live music by Jennifer Chase and Holly Decardenas, socializing, and a silent auction.
- Inspiring Program at 7 p.m., where we will share our story. Speakers include Jennifer Wolfe, Mary Strickland, Tru-Leverette Hall, Shani Hall, Anna Jacobson, Tyla Chambers, and Olivia Vo, along with several surprise guests. We will also honor our community partners who have helped create this vibrant confluence of voices.
- Celebration Finale with music, a champagne toast, and a celebratory cake.
Support Our Legacy
This celebration isn’t only about reflecting on our past; it’s about building our future. Join us in sustaining this legacy of connection by attending, donating, and sharing your stories. Together, let’s strengthen the creative ties that enrich our River City.
Get your tickets HERE. Ticket prices are available for a range of budgets.
WHAT WE’VE BEEN UP TO LATELY
Post-Election Circle at Yellow House
We gathered together to process the results of the election, surrounded by art and community. Comments from participants:
“A great release. I wanted it to go on forever.”
“I loved the mix of young and old and the sense of continuity. If I fall, they will pick up where I left off. The future will be proud.”
“So many brilliant voices and insights.”
“I loved hearing everyone’s stories. It made me feel less lonely.”—JW
Discerning Our Leadership Path
We circled up on Saturday to explore our individual readiness to follow a path of leadership in the Conscious Feminine tradition. Now more than ever, this kind of leadership is needed. With amazing facilitation by Tru Leverette Hall and inspiring words from Juli Williams, we left deeply engaged in our journeys. Applications are due by December 15, 2024. Learn more and apply HERE. —JW
And a Little Bit of Joy*
Helping to facilitate the seasoned storytelling and future dreams of a beautiful cohort of letter-writers at Generation WOW last week was soul-soothing. This is good work in our community!—JW
*Words courtesy of the JaxToday newsletter. To learn more about this women-led newsletter featuring local writers, check out this link: JAXTODAY
RETREAT TO THE COTSWOLDS
Embark on a Writing Journey to England
We’re offering our first-ever international retreat in partnership with Casa Erica Travel! A few spots are still available. Join us for a writing adventure! Details HERE.
The Last Word, by Anat Shenker-Osorio
“Democracy has always been an argument. We are worth fighting for. The future is still being made in how we make our choices. This, too, we shall overcome.”