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Top 30: Must-Know Organizations Built for Writers

Updated: Mar 12

The Power of Building a Strong Writing Community


In a field that can be generally isolating, writing organizations provide invaluable opportunities for writers to build a supportive community, connect with like-minded peers, and access unique resources tailored to their craft.

Many associations offer exclusive perks, such as specialized publications, member-only networking events, and unique opportunities for showcasing work that may not be available elsewhere. These benefits can help writers grow personally and professionally while navigating the ever-evolving literary landscape.


The act of writing is often solitary, requiring long hours of introspection and focus. This can leave writers feeling disconnected from the creative world around them. However, building a sense of community is more important than ever, especially in an industry that is constantly evolving due to technological advancements, shifting market demands, and the growing need for diversity and inclusion. Writing organizations provide an antidote to this isolation, offering writers a space to share experiences, collaborate on projects, and gain insight from others who truly understand the challenges and joys of the craft.


Additionally, these organizations help foster a sense of belonging in an often competitive and uncertain field. By participating in workshops, conferences, and networking events, writers can form lasting relationships that encourage creativity and bolster resilience. These connections often lead to mentorship opportunities, collaboration, and even long-term friendships that make the writing journey more fulfilling.


The list below is a starting point and is by no means exhaustive. It will likely evolve over time to include additional organizations as they become relevant. Please note that inclusion on this list does not constitute an endorsement; rather, it serves as a resource for writers exploring avenues to advance their careers. Hopefully, one—or several—of these groups will prove beneficial in your writing journey and inspire you to build the connections that make writing a shared, rather than solitary, experience.


 

General Writing Organizations


  1. Authors Guild: With more than 14,000 members, the Authors Guild is the nation’s oldest and largest professional organization for published writers." Offers membership levels based on experience.

  2. Association of Writers & Writing Programs (AWP): Founded in 1967, AWP connects writers and writing programs, including colleges and universities. It champions diversity and excellence in creative writing.

  3. National Writers Union (NWU): Represents freelance writers working in all genres, formats, and mediums as the only labor union of its kind.

  4. Poets & Writers: Founded in 1970, Poets & Writers is the largest nonprofit organization serving creative writers in the United States.

  5. International Women's Writing Guild (IWWG): Supports culturally diverse women writers through strong membership, e-newsletters, conferences, events, and anthologies.

  6. Writer’s Digest: A resource hub for writers, offering education, inspiration, and tools through courses, workshops, and writing competitions.


 

Genre-Specific Organizations


  1. Academy of American Poets: Founded in 1934 to champion American poets and poetry. The site includes links to poems, poets, contests, and more.

  2. Horror Writers Association (HWA): A nonprofit organization promoting dark literature and supporting its writers since the 1980s.

  3. Mystery Writers of America (MWA): Established in 1945, MWA promotes and protects the interests of mystery writers.

  4. Romance Writers of America (RWA): Advances the professional interests of romance writers through networking, advocacy, and increasing public awareness.

  5. Science Fiction & Fantasy Writers of America (SFWA): Supports science fiction and fantasy writers, educating the public and empowering its members.

  6. Sisters in Crime: Focused on equity and inclusion, it advocates for women crime writers while building a vibrant, inclusive community.

  7. Western Writers of America (WWA): Founded in 1953 to promote literature of the American West and bestow Spur Awards for distinguished writing.


 

Professional & Trade Organizations


  1. American Society of Journalists and Authors (ASJA): The largest professional organization of independent nonfiction writers in the U.S.

  2. Education Writers Association (EWA): Dedicated to improving the quality and quantity of education coverage for a better-informed society.

  3. Society for Advancing Business Editing and Writing (SABEW): The premier association for business journalists.

  4. Society of American Travel Writers (SATW): Represents professional communicators experienced in the travel industry.

  5. Outdoor Writers Association of America (OWAA): An international organization dedicated to sharing the outdoor experience through professional communication.

  6. National Association of Science Writers (NASW): A community for those writing and producing content on science, health, engineering, and technology.

  7. Writers Guild of America-East (WGAE): A labor union representing writers creating content for motion pictures, TV, news, and online media.

  8. Writers Guild of America-West (WGAW): Founded in 1933 to protect the creative and economic rights of its members.


 

Creative Arts & Literary Representation


  1. Dramatists Guild of America: Founded in 1919 to support theater writers, including playwrights, composers, lyricists, and librettists.

  2. Association of American Literary Agents (AALA): AALA supports professional literary agents and provides resources for writers.

  3. Association of Authors' Agents (AAA): A UK-based trade association providing resources for literary agents and authors.

  4. Society of Children's Book Writers & Illustrators (SCBWI): A global community supporting creators of children’s literature.

  5. Poetry Society of America: The oldest poetry organization in the U.S., placing poetry at the crossroads of American life.


 

Specialized Communication & Support


  1. American Medical Writers Association (AMWA): The leading organization for writers and communicators of medical information.

  2. American Translators Association (ATA): The largest professional association for translators and interpreters in the U.S.

  3. Volunteer Lawyers for the Arts (VLA): Provides legal aid and education for New York artists and arts organizations.

  4. Association for Women in Communications (AWC): Champions the advancement of women across all communication disciplines.


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