Programs
The Downtown Writer's Center
The DWC is CNY's only community center for the literary arts, and is a leading member of the YMCA National Writer's Voice network of literary arts programs. Activities include:
THE VISITING AUTHOR READING SERIES
Each year, the DWC hosts readings by 15-22 visiting authors, featuring the most exciting local and national voices. Guests range from first-time novelists to Pulitzer Prize-winning poets, and most readings are free and open to the public. Recent visiting authors include Charles Simic, Ted Kooser, Brigit Pegeen Kelly and Minnie Bruce Pratt.
CREATIVE WRITING WORKSHOPS
The DWC hosts more than 40 different creative writing workshops each year. Classes vary from season to season, and typically include workshops in poetry, fiction, memoir, drama, non-fiction and screenwriting. Fees for workshops and classes are very reasonable, and financial assistance is often available for low-income patrons. All DWC instructors are serious, published writers—professionals who can help you learn to improve your skills, and increase your chances of getting your work in print.
DWC PRO
DWC PRO is a two-year intensive program for poets and fiction writers who are serious about honing their craft and growing their careers. Our program is designed especially for writers who will benefit from focused study--the same kind offered by an MFA program, but without relocation or high cost. As a DWC PRO student, you will take advanced courses, receive individual feedback, and work with established writers who will mentor you as you complete a manuscript that is publication-ready. To apply for the program, students must complete an application and submit a work sample, which will be reviewed by program faculty. The postmark deadline for applications is Monday, June 15th.
THE POET'S ROOM
The DWC also features a browsing library for use by patrons. Resources include a wide variety of literary journals (well over 100 different journals are represented in the collection), publishing guidebooks, and a growing collection of poetry, fiction and non-fiction books. The Poet’s Room is a tremendous resource for writers seeking publication for their own work. To donate books or recent literary journals to the DWC library, contact the director.
THE DWC POETRY BROADSIDE SERIES
Each year, the Downtown Writer’s Center commissions our friends at Boxcar Press to print beautiful artistic renditions of poems by selected authors in our reading series. These collectible, limited edition prints are available at very low prices, and proceeds support the programs of the Downtown Writer’s Center.
Programs of the YMCA's Downtown Writer's Center are made possible with public funds from the New York State Council on the Arts, a state agency.
(Almost) August Occasion!