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November 17.2025
2 Minutes Read

Join Bestselling Author Candice Millard at Kansas City’s Writers for Readers Event

Smiling woman outdoors at Kansas City Writers for Readers event.

Exciting Literary Event Coming to Kansas City

Kansas City is buzzing with anticipation as bestselling author Candice Millard prepares to speak at the annual Writers for Readers fundraiser this November. With four New York Times’ bestsellers under her belt and a keen ability to weave history with compelling narrative, Millard has earned her place as a standout writer in the literary community.

Transforming Lives Through the Power of Writing

Millard's literary prowess goes beyond storytelling; she understands the importance of nurturing the next generation of writers. The Writers for Readers initiative, co-hosted by the Kansas City Public Library and the University of Missouri-Kansas City (UMKC), emphasizes the value of teaching writing. Millard believes, “Even the most naturally gifted writer needs some experienced, knowledgeable advice.” This philosophy is driving the success of free writing classes that support community members eager to hone their craft.

Creating Connections Through Education

Through the partnership with UMKC, the Writers for Readers program enlisted interns from the Master of Fine Arts Creative Writing program, who taught a remarkable 72 classes to nearly 500 participants in 2024-2025 alone. Student Eva Schneider, a returning teacher, shared, “The heart of my classes comes from the people who attend,” highlighting the vital community connections forged in these educational spaces.

A Celebration of Literature and Social Justice

As part of the fundraiser, the event will announce the winner of the prestigious Maya Angelou Book Award, recognizing literary works that embody themes of social justice. This award serves to uplift voices that contribute to diversity in literature and is bolstered by the event's proceeds. Knowing that part of your ticket supports such a meaningful cause makes attending all the more worthwhile.

How to Be a Part of This Literary Journey

Attending this event not only allows you to hear from a celebrated author but also plays a crucial role in supporting Kansas City's literary scene and its budding writers. To join Candice Millard at the Writers for Readers fundraiser, you can purchase tickets through the library’s site, thereby contributing to a program that cultivates creativity and community engagement.

Why This Event Matters

In an era where the power of storytelling is as vital as ever, events like the Writers for Readers fundraiser are essential for fueling local talent and providing opportunities in Kansas City. With Millard’s presence, the event underscores the importance of giving back to the community, fostering an environment where aspiring writers can learn and thrive.

Call to Action

If you have a story to share or want to connect further about supporting Kansas City's vibrant writing community, please reach out to us at team@kansascitythrive.com. Your involvement can help nurture the next generation of Kansas City voices!

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Explore How Dean Mitchell's Art Inspires Kansas City Local Businesses

Update Dean Mitchell: A Captivating Journey Through Art In the heart of Kansas City, Dean Mitchell’s art has come home. With two impactful exhibitions at the Museum of Art + Light, locals are invited to experience a rich tapestry of portraiture and storytelling that delves deep into the human condition. These exhibitions, titled "Heritage & the Human Condition" and "The Erosion of Time," showcase more than 50 of Mitchell's works, spanning across four decades of his artistic achievements. Mitchell, a former Hallmark illustrator, initially left Kansas City over two decades ago, but his return is nothing short of a celebration of art that merges intimacy with broader societal narratives. Capturing Humanity Through Unique Perspectives What makes Mitchell’s work stand out is his profound understanding of the human experience. From portraits that resonate with personal narratives to landscapes echoing the passage of time, he invites viewers into a dialogue not only with the art but also with themselves. For instance, the striking portrait titled "Boundary" captures an elderly man with a piercing gaze, inviting contemplation on age, love, and the unrecognized struggles we all face. This duality of honesty and empathy extends throughout his work, providing a reflective space where viewers can confront their emotions. A Community Connection: Art and Local Businesses For Kansas City residents and businesses, Dean Mitchell’s exhibitions are more than just art; they symbolize an opportunity to rally around community narratives that uplift the local scene. As local businesses continue to adapt, embracing initiatives that connect with artists and foster cultural exchanges can benefit everyone. Collaborations such as pop-up galleries, workshops, and community events can help create a vibrant ecosystem that supports local talent while attracting customers. This way, the art doesn’t just hang on the walls; it breathes life into the community, engaging both local residents and business owners in meaningful ways. The Digital Age of Storytelling in Art One of the most exciting aspects of Mitchell’s exhibitions is the innovative blending of traditional art forms with modern technology. "The Erosion of Time" brings Mitchell’s paintings to life through immersive digital storytelling, compelling audiences to see art from new angles. This evolution in how we engage with artwork reflects broader trends in the artistic sphere, where digital integration is becoming increasingly essential. For local businesses, partnering with artists to explore digital storytelling can create unique marketing avenues and customer experiences, showcasing the depth of Kansas City’s creative talent while building a more interconnected community. Meet the Makers Behind the Art For Kansas City to thrive, it is essential to spotlight the stories of its artists and entrepreneurs who shape the fabric of the community. Local artists like Dean Mitchell exemplify the value of creativity in enhancing local culture and driving economic growth. Highlighting these stories through community-focused publications, social media features, and local events can inspire upcoming artists and encourage budding entrepreneurs to take the plunge. It also creates a narrative around Kansas City as a hub for artistic innovation and cultural pride. Why Supporting Local Arts Is More Important Than Ever In our current climate of rapid change and uncertainty, supporting local artists and businesses emerges as a vital way to sustain community spirit. The narratives within Mitchell’s works resonate deeply with the Kansas City local scene, fostering a sense of belonging through shared stories. Art that reflects the diversity and resilience of a community can instigate conversations that spark change, foster understanding, and ultimately galvanize community action for local success. Have a story to share or want to contact us for more details? Drop us an email at team@kansascitythrive.com.

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