5 Helpful Organizations For Creative Writers

For aspiring authors, writing and editing a manuscript on one's own may feel like an incredibly daunting task. Fortunately, there are countless experts willing to guide others through the writing and publishing process. In no particular order, here are some groups that offer valuable resources for up-and-coming wordsmiths.

First up, at #1, we have the NY Writers Coalition. It is a community-based creative writing program that partners with social service agencies and various other organizations to provide unique and empowering workshops throughout New York City. Its events are mainly targeted towards underserved communities, and participants can get their work printed in the organization's publications.

Through its partnerships with local organizations, it provides free weekly workshops for youth and adults in various programs in the city, such as SAGE, VISIONS, and The Lighthouse. The organization also hosts an annual Write-A-Thon, where individuals can learn from a diverse set of guest instructors and share their work with fellow writers.

Next, at #2, is GrubStreet. Founded in 1997 by Eve Bridburg, it is open to scribes from all walks of life and at every stage of development, from absolute beginners to established authors. Its Write Down the Street program makes writing workshops more accessible by offering free sessions at various Boston Public Library branches across the city.

Among its other programs is Novel Generator, a nine-month course designed to help students finish the first draft of their novel by offering them the support and feedback needed for this early stage in the writing process. The organization's Emerging Writer Fellowship also provides three writers per year with tuition-free access to GrubStreet's classes.

Coming in at #3 is the Association of Writers and Writing Programs, which aims to amplify the voices of authors and the academic organizations that serve them while also championing diversity and excellence in the field. Members gain access to various useful resources, including job listings and internships for writers and free use of the Chronicle app.

The annual AWP Conference and Bookfair features five days of literary conversation and celebration, with a wide variety of events and exhibitors. The organization also sponsors various contests, such as the AWP Award Series, a yearly competition for the publication of new book-length works.

Next up, at #4, we have Paper Nations, which is a creative writing incubator that commissions authors throughout South West England to create new work. Every three years, the group identifies a new area of focus, such as increasing creative writing opportunities for youth.

Its Writing for All program provides support through access to various mentors, events, and more. Paper Nations' "Dare to Write?" is a collection of resources for writers, including an atlas that individuals of all ages can use to connect with fellow writers or find events around the country.

Finally, at #5, we have the Cambridge Writers' Workshop. Founded in 2008 by Rita Banerjee and Diana Norma Szokolyai, it acts as an inclusive forum that aims to encourage creative expression in the literary arts, and it's open for all amateur and professional authors.

The workshop also includes online creative writing courses, as well as various retreats in both the United States and abroad. Pledged members of the workshop gain full access to the CWW NING Writers’ Network, where they may connect with other authors and share their work.