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Register 7 Seats Remaining

Family Stories: Writing Our Roots, Relationships & Legacies

with Brenda Johnson

2026-11-14 15:00:00 2026-11-14 16:30:00 America/Indiana/Indianapolis Family Stories: Writing Our Roots, Relationships & Legacies Exploring family history, memory, traditions, complicated relationships, and the stories passed through generations. Amherst Writers & Artists-method writing workshops are designed to encourage reflection, connection, and self-expression for adults of all writing experience levels. West Indianapolis Branch -

Saturday, November 14
3:00pm - 4:30pm

Exploring family history, memory, traditions, complicated relationships, and the stories passed through generations. Amherst Writers & Artists-method writing workshops are designed to encourage reflection, connection, and self-expression for adults of all writing experience levels.

Every family carries stories — the ones told around kitchen tables, the ones carefully preserved, and sometimes the ones left unspoken.

In this supportive 90-minute writing workshop using the Amherst Writers & Artists method, participants will explore memories, family traditions, relationships, personal history, and the people who helped shape their lives. Through guided prompts and optional sharing, writers of all experience levels are invited to reflect on the moments, voices, and experiences that connect generations.

Because every family story is layered and ongoing, this workshop is designed as a meaningful beginning — a place to spark memories, remember stories, and begin writing that workshop participants may continue to explore long after the session ends.

No writing experience is necessary. Participants are encouraged to write freely in a confidential, respectful, and encouraging environment where every voice is welcomed.

Brenda Johnson is an Indianapolis storyteller, writing workshop facilitator and public speaker. Her work focuses on aging, family stories, and the power of personal storytelling. Through her Older, Bolder & Better! blog on Substack, storytelling performances, and Amherst Writers & Artists (AWA) workshops, she creates welcoming spaces where people of all backgrounds are encouraged to reflect, connect, and share their experiences. Brenda was selected as the 2025 Frank Basile Emerging Storyteller, sponsored by Storytelling Arts of Indiana. She also presents community-focused programs for older adults.

To get ready, here are some book lists about writing!

AGE GROUP: | Adults |

EVENT TYPE: | Class/Workshop |

TAGS: | Writing Workshops for Adults | Writing Skills | Writing | Adults | #Adult |

West Indianapolis Branch

Phone: 317-275-4540

Hours
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We're closed Monday October 12 due to Indigenous Peoples' Day
Mon, Oct 12 Closed
(Indigenous Peoples' Day)
Tue, Oct 13 10:00AM to 8:00PM
Wed, Oct 14 10:00AM to 6:00PM
Thu, Oct 15 10:00AM to 6:00PM
Fri, Oct 16 10:00AM to 6:00PM
Sat, Oct 17 10:00AM to 5:00PM
Sun, Oct 18 Closed

About the branch

The first West Indianapolis Branch opened in 1897, following the annexation of West Indianapolis into the city of Indianapolis. A new building on West Morris Street, constructed with funds from a $120,000 grant by the Andrew Carnegie Foundation, opened in 1912 and served the community until 1986, when the current 5,000-square-foot branch began service on South Kappes Street.

Upcoming events

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Sat, Oct 17, 10:00am - 12:00pm
This event is full

Cancelled
Sat, Oct 17, 2:00pm - 4:00pm

Mon, Oct 19, 2:30pm - 4:00pm

Tue, Oct 20, 5:00pm - 7:00pm
This event is full

Mon, Oct 26, 2:30pm - 4:00pm

Mon, Oct 26, 6:00pm - 7:30pm

Sat, Oct 31, 10:00am - 12:00pm
This event is full

Mon, Nov 09, 2:30pm - 4:00pm

Mon, Nov 09, 5:00pm - 6:00pm

Tue, Nov 10, 6:00pm - 7:30pm

Sat, Nov 14, 10:00am - 12:00pm
This event is full