This is a virtual writing group devoted to turning memories into memoir. It will offer writers an opportunity to share their work by reading aloud in a small group setting. Members receive constructive feedback from peers working on the many forms of memoir. Space limited to writers with work in progress. Sessions meet the 1st and 3rd Wednesday afternoon of each month from April – June. The group will then resume after a summer break.
Interested in joining this writing group? Find out how here!
Meet Your Facilitators
Mike Godown graduated from Lafayette College with an Economic and Business degree. He is a retired executive from General Electric Company (GE) where he graduated from their Financial Management Program and held a variety of leadership positions during his 27-year career in their Consumer, Healthcare, and Information Technology businesses.
Mike has a life-long interest in family history and has volunteered in a variety of organizations including as President of the Indian River Genealogical Society, co-facilitator for LRJF’s Write Life adult writing group, and most recently facilitating LRJF youth programs.
Laura Kelley has lived and worked in Vero Beach since 1981. When she wasn’t in the dance studio, she earned a Journalism degree, BA from Central Michigan University, Mt. Pleasant MI in the days of the manual typewriter. After graduating she wrote for a weekly string of suburban newspapers and the next year moved to Florida for her grandmother, the sunshine, and a magazine job.
Laura served in writing positions in Florida PR and ad agencies before running her own company, Image Makers Ink from 1985-1990. She served as the first Executive Director of the Volunteer Action Center in Indian River County and from 1993-2003, Laura was the Marketing Director for Saint Edward’s School.
In 2003, she joined the then Indian River Community College’s Institutional Advancement office and the following year was hired to develop and direct the College Foundation’s successful Lifelong Learning Institute until redefining her own retirement in 2013.
A long-time community volunteer, she has enjoyed serving on local non-profit Boards with a focus on education and the arts and served on the first Board of Directors for LRJ.
With a passion for mindful movement, Laura is a registered Yoga Alliance teacher having completed 2-200 hr. certified trainings in vinyasa and yin. She enjoys off the beaten path travel, sailing, yoga, and dance, and is currently working on her memoir. She and her partner Bob live, work, and play in the Cultural Arts Village.