The Veteran Writers Alliance Organization was founded as a means to assist veterans in “Healing Through Writing.” This venture came about when two passionate writers from Royal Palm Beach crossed paths in 2018 at a local writers’ group. One is Hartley Barnes, a veteran of 27 years with three active duty rotations, and the other a local publisher, Karina Felix.
They both saw the drastic changes that occurred in Barnes after two years of writing and sharing his stories. He became more personable, focused and outgoing. In discussing these changes, the idea came about to help others, especially combat veterans, have the same opportunity and experience of healing through writing.
The goal of the Veteran Writers Alliance Organization is to create small groups all throughout the nation to produce momentum and engage more veterans to find a safe place where they can express themselves and feel free to share their thoughts and ideas.
The local chapter, Veteran Writers of the Palm Beaches, is launching this month. A Veteran Writers Alliance Meet & Greet Networking Event will be held Monday, March 16 from 5 to 7 p.m. at DAS Craft Beer + Pizza (2415 N. Ocean Ave, Riviera Beach). For more info., visit www.veteranwritersalliance.org.
