Meet Our Creator of the Month: Kim McKinney

Our Creator of the Month series shines a spotlight on the amazing writers and video producers who make NewsBreak the vibrant space it is today.

Our August Creator of the Month is Kim McKinney who is based in Statesville, NC. Among our first creators to join the program, Kim has accumulated nearly 1000 followers and shared 100 stories. Read on to learn more about her NewsBreak journey!

Kim McKinney/NewsBreak

Why did you apply to become a NewsBreak Creator?

I love my community and felt that there were things our local newspapers didn't cover well. These were all things I love—the people, the arts, fun and quirky things to see and do, local businesses and charities. I love telling these stories.

What's your favorite part about writing for NewsBreak?

When the reaction to what I write takes me by surprise. I wrote an article on a 100 mile yard sale held in a mostly rural area of my state. I went to help my niece do set-up and took a few pictures when I was there. That night I wrote a story. I was amazed at how it spread. Obviously people in NC like yard sales! I'll write about it again next year, but probably a month prior so more people can make plans to attend.

What advice would you give to other creators who want to be successful on NewsBreak?

Hang in there. That seems trite, but it is the truth. I never thought I would reach 200 followers and am about to hit 1,000. While people in urban areas can hit that number overnight, those of us in rural areas struggle, so each follower is a victory. Also, explore your area. There are stories on every corner. In many ways I just do what I normally do and stories show up.

What have been some of your favorite articles to write?

I just did a series on area parks for National Parks and Recreation Month. I was surprised there were a few parks I had passed many times and never knew existed. I also was surprised by the variety of activities available to people in our area. It's a good thing to encourage people outdoors.

Two local nonprofits, the Iredell Arts Council and the Historic Sharpe House, put on all kinds of fun events. I love knowing I can help boost attendance simply because I tell people about the work they are doing.

Anything else you want to share?

My mind goes a mile a minute when I think of the possibilities of things to write about. I have talked to our local homeless shelter about doing a series of articles on all the ways they help people in the community. I'd like to do the same for other nonprofits. I also am a huge fan of all of the talented musicians in this area. I plan to tell their stories. They are so much more than people see when they perform. Some folks have no idea how much live music we have in this small town. I want them to be aware.

This interview has been edited and condensed.

Follow Kim on NewsBreak to keep up with her adventures and stay tuned to meet more of our creators!

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About the Creator Program: Our Creator Program brings together professional journalists, experts, and high-quality content creators to deliver relevant, local, and original content. NewsBreak creators cover everything from in-depth investigative features to timely events happening around town. Find out more and apply at creators.newsbreak.com/creators.