Coastal Carolina University’s Athenaeum Press will host a Salty Mamas and Papas community writing workshop in Pawleys Island, S.C., for parents of all identities raising children in a vacation destination town. The event will be held in the Bunnelle Center’s community building at 95 Centermarsh Lane in Pawleys Island on Thursday, March 7, from 6:30-8 p.m. The event is free, but space is limited, and registration is required. Dinner and children’s activities for school-age children (ages 6 to 18) will be provided.

Salty Mamas and Papas will provide an opportunity for the community to come together and share the good, the bad, and sometimes hilarious stories. “From navigating school pick-up through tourist traffic to maintaining familial calm through countless storms, we want to hear what it’s like (and what it’s really like) to parent in the fastest growing region in the nation.” According to Athenaeum Press organizers, “whether you are living the salt life or feeling salty about life, new to the state or native, come build community with us through storytelling.”

The Athenaeum Press, CCU’s student-driven publishing lab, operates to make the phrase “Local Stories Matter” a reality. This workshop is part of a new Athenaeum Press collaboration with Communal Pen. Originally established by the South Carolina Arts Commission in 2010, these sessions showcase stories to explore the dynamic and ever-changing state of South Carolina. Communal Pen creates space for, amplifies, and connects unheard voices through writing workshops, curated publications, and a digital platform.

At Communal Pen events, community members gather and respond to prompts however they choose with whatever skill level they bring to the table. With participants’ permission, all stories will be kept in a story bank that showcases South Carolina’s diversity. Themes for stories and workshops vary to achieve the goal of community building through storytelling.

Communal Pen workshops draw upon and even rekindle memories deeply rooted in their geography, culture, community, and family. Past participants have expressed gratitude for the opportunity of having a shared memory with people from different backgrounds and communities. If you have a child, you no doubt have experience and wisdom to share. Regardless of your approach to parenting, your story is welcome.

For more information, please contact the Athenaeum Press at athenaeumpress@coastal.edu or 843-349-5099.