Who We Are

CWA’s diverse membership ranges from professional freelancers and published authors, to writers aspiring to be published and those who write as a creative outlet. Our members write both fiction and non-fiction, including novels, short stories, poetry, plays, feature articles and essays. Others work in specific genres such as romance, history, religious, horror, science fiction, biography, or memoirs.

Many members live in Chicago or surrounding areas, though some choose to participate from afar via the CWA online discussion group.

CWA History

The Chicago Writers Association is a creative writing community of dedicated writers from Chicagoland and around the world founded in 2003 and organized as a not-for-profit organization in 2006. In 2008, CWA obtained federal 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status.

CWA members are both professional, published authors and those committed to joining their ranks. We focus our efforts on the necessary aspects of the professional writer:

  • Perfecting our craft
  • Getting our work into the stream of commerce

We span many genres and styles. Our purpose is to share information, experience and encouragement. We are a welcoming community of those for whom written expression is an integral part of our lives.

 

Stay updated on CWA news and events:

Our Vision

The Chicago Writers Association (CWA) is a voluntary, not-for-profit organization dedicated to promoting the 4 C’s of writing: creativity, community, craft and commerce. CWA strives to:

  • Foster a visible, supportive writing community
  • Provide genuine, constructive feedback and access to resources
  • Assist writers at all levels achieve their writing goals
  • Build a bridge to unite all facets of Chicago’s diverse literary culture
  • Promote Chicago as a place of literary distinction
CWA Board Photo

CWA BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Top row, left to right: Kristin Oakley, Samantha Hoffman, Randy Richardson, Christina Rodriguez, Rick Kaempfer
Bottom row, left to right: Shawn Shiflett, Dan Burns, Charlie Monte Verde, Marcie Hil
Not pictured: Becky Sarwate, Sandra Colbert and Maggie Smith; and Junior Board Member Jessica Mack
 

If you are interested in becoming a board member please read the JOB DESCRIPTION, and you are welcome to submit an APPLICATION. Please email the completed app: info@chicagowrites.org.