Draw Near: Writing from a Place of Presence
“Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you.”
James 4:8A (ESV)
Saturday, February 20, 2027 (9:00 AM-4:00 PM)
Virtual
KEYNOTER: Allen Arnold
Workshops (So Far)
- From Blank Page to Book Deal: Building a Strong Foundation as a Pre-Published Nonfiction Author (Amber Ginter) – You don’t need a massive platform, perfect credentials, or years of experience to begin building a meaningful writing career. In this workshop, author and speaker Amber Ginter Johnson will help aspiring nonfiction writers understand the foundational steps to move from “I have an idea” to a clear, sustainable path toward publication. Attendees will learn how to clarify their message, grow an authentic platform, build industry relationships, create consistent writing rhythms, and avoid common mistakes that keep talented writers stuck before they ever begin.
- Setting as Character (Steve Rogers) –
- Show Up Without Burning Out: Social Media Without the Grind (Tara Lee Felix)
- Beyond the Starving Artist: Creating a Sustainable Writing Career with Purpose and Income (Amber Ginter) – Many writers have been taught that pursuing creativity means choosing instability, exhaustion, or financial struggle. But sustainable writing careers are possible. In this workshop, Amber Ginter Johnson shares practical and encouraging strategies for building multiple income streams, stewarding creativity wisely, and pursuing publishing without sacrificing mental health or purpose. Attendees will learn how modern authors generate income through books, speaking, coaching, digital products, podcasts, partnerships, and more, while also learning how to define success in a healthier, more sustainable way. This session is ideal for writers who want to dream realistically and build careers that last.
- One Piece, Ten Ways: Stop Starting From Scratch (Tara Lee Felix)
- Breaking Into Magazine Article Writing (Jesse Florea)
- Ten Tips for Beginning Fiction Writers (Steve Rogers)
- Blogging (Mara Scudder)
- Do’s and Don’ts of Writing for Children (Jesse Florea)
More to come!
Our Faculty (So Far)
Tara Lee Felix
Amber Ginter Johnson
Steven Rogers
Amber Ginter – Johnson is a writer, speaker, and mental health advocate who helps young adult Christians navigate anxiety, depression, and life’s hard moments with practical, biblical hope. She is the host of the Authentically Amber podcast and a published writer with over 1,000 articles on faith, mental health, and relationships. A former teacher of 1,500+ students, Amber holds a B.A. in English, an A.A. in Biblical Studies, and certifications in writing, business, and entrepreneurship. She is a certified peer recovery supporter and volunteers with To Write Love on Her Arms. She lives in Chillicothe, Ohio, with her husband, Ben, their Goldendoodle, Oso, and a love for granola, dancing, and finding joy in everyday life. Visit AmberGinter.com for free resources.
More to Come
Schedule
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9:00 AM: Introduction
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9:10 AM: Keynote Presentation 1
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10:00 AM: Workshop #1
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10:45 AM: Break
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11:00 AM: Workshop #2
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11:45 PM: Lunch Break
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12:15 PM: Networking Rooms
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1:00 PM: Giveaways & Keynote Presentation 2
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1:50 PM: Break
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2:00 PM: Workshop #3
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2:45 PM: Break
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3:00 PM: Marketing Q&A
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4:00 PM: End of conference
Pricing
CCW Member Registration: $79.00
Nonmember Registration: $99.00
Early Bird Discount: Use code “EarlyBird20” for 20% discount
Note: Coupon code expires after Dec 1st