In an ever-changing world, our sense of place—our connection to the landscapes, communities, and histories that shape us—offers a foundation for well-being, belonging, and stewardship. Research shows that strong place connections enhance mental health, reduce stress, and foster a sense of meaning in our lives. Communities rooted in a shared sense of place are more resilient, fostering understanding, cooperation, and a deeper appreciation for cultural and natural heritage. When we feel connected to a place, we are more likely to care for it, ensuring its stories, landscapes, and ecosystems endure for future generations.

Join us for an immersive 90-minute writing workshop designed to ignite your creativity and deepen your connection to the places you cherish. Each session culminates in an optional opportunity to share your work at a community concert and open mic, celebrating local voices and stories.

Sense of Place & Story Writing is for everyone—whether you’re a seasoned writer or just beginning. Using simple, sensory-rich prompts, you’ll unlock vivid descriptions, authentic emotions, and compelling narratives that can shape stories, poems, songs, and more.

Guided by Erica Wheeler, you’ll follow a step-by-step process to tap into the power of place through writing. You’ll craft a touchstone story—one that captures meaningful moments from your past or present, deepening both personal and communal ties to the places you call home. Don't miss this chance to explore, create, and connect through the art of storytelling. 

About the facilitator: Erica Wheeler is an award-winning singer-songwriter and TEDx speaker and has worked extensively with the National Parks. She is experienced in facilitating creative writing workshops and retreats, using a “sense of place” as the gateway to creativity, curiosity, belonging, and identity. More at www.senseofplaceconsulting.com.

Where We Live: A Sense of Place Story and Writing Workshop is part of the Pocumtuck Valley Memorial Association (PVMA) and Montague Public Libraries NEA Big Read of Ross Gay's poetry collection, Catalog of Unabashed Gratitude. NEA Big Read is a program of the National Endowment for the Arts in partnership with Arts Midwest.

The PVMA is one of 62 programs in communities nationwide selected to participate in this year’s theme exploring “Where We Live.” This year, public libraries in Northampton, Florence, Easthampton, Southampton, Westhampton, and Williamsburg will be joining our All Hamptons Read program with our PVMA neighbors.

PVMA’s three-season program focuses on Ross Gay’s book of poetry, Catalog of Unabashed Gratitude. Gay’s poetry acknowledges both the painful aspects of life and our ability to find gratitude and joy—in nature and in ordinary moments of kindness and joy—is inspiring. Gay’s love of nature, especially orchards, inspired the kick-off during Franklin County Cider Days last Fall with an “Orchard Saunter” featuring Erica Wheeler.  

Learn more about the NEA Big Read and All Hamptons Read on our website.