Willamette Writers offers its members a number of benefits. Willamette Writers' goal is to provide and encourage a creative environment and support system for current and aspiring writers. Both published and aspiring writers are invited to join.

* Monthly meetings with great speakers!

* The Willamette Writer monthly newsletter.

* Discounted rates for the Annual Willamette Writers Conference.

* Ability to participate in the annual Writers Faire.

* Opportunities to network with fellow writers.

* Volunteer opportunities.

* Posting of your Web site, books and news.

* Referral services for critique groups and freelance professionals, and other learning and networking opportunities.

* A bulletin board and email lists for posting news about book signings, critique groups, and book publishing news.

Awards

We also encourage writing excellence through our various awards programs.

The Kay Snow Writing Contest, established in 1973, was named for our founder. The contest now has entries from across the nation, and includes both adult and young writers.

The Willamette Writers / Barnes & Noble Kate Herzog Scholarship writing awards are open to students in grades 12 - 14. There are four scholarships and one $500 scholarship presented each year. Kate Herzog was also a founding member of the organization.

The Distinguished Northwest Writer Award (est. 1988) recognizes noteworthy NW authors with exceptional literary writing.

The Lifetime Achievement (est. 1989) goes to honor a writer or person in the publishing industry who has demonstrated exceptional achievement in his or her work during a lifetime.

The Humanitarian Award (est. 1996) honors a person or organization in the writing field or publishing industry who has demonstrated exceptional philanthropy in his or her field of work.