Hudson Valley Writers Guild

Description

Organizational Profile: The Hudson Valley Writers Guild fosters an active community of writers and readers by encouraging the development of local authors and providing opportunities for them to share their talents with local audiences. The Hudson Valley Writers Guild (HVWG) has just celebrated its 20th anniversary!! This milestone was marked with publication of an anthology of local writers, published in December 2003. Entitled Peer Glass; An Anthology: Writings from Hudson Valley Peer Groups, this beautifully presented anthology includes works of fiction, poetry and creative nonfiction by writers representing a diverse cross-section of the community. Other regular activities of HVWG include educational workshops, networking, coordination of peer writing groups, and events that feature regional writers.
Background: The Hudson Valley Writers Guild was established in 1983 to enable writers to help themselves and one another, to create bridges between area writers and their communities, and to increase regional publishing opportunities for writers. Guild members include poets, fiction and nonfiction writers, journalists, playwrights, screenwriters, editors, and supporters of the literary activities. HVWG provides an active and committed creative network for writers. The Guild serves as a forum to share common concerns, focus on common issues, and provide constructive critical forums for creative development.
Activities: Guild activities over the years include publications of works by local authors; production of a high quality literary magazine, Groundswell; sponsorship of Community Voices, a series of readings by local writers; coordination of a small press book fair; development of a Guide to Local Authors; and offering workshops on such topics as peer writing groups, playwriting, fiction, poetry, and creativity. Importantly, HVWG contributes to the creation of the audience, literary programs and means of expression necessary for quality literature to thrive.
Operations: The Hudson Valley Writers Guild is a volunteer, non-profit association. Planning and activities are overseen by an active Board of Directors working with a committee structure. To keep costs down, volunteer members carry out most activities. HVWG has had student interns from Siena College, University of Albany, and Sage College. When finances allow, the Guild employs a part-time administrative assistant or consultants to assist with activities.
Collaborations: HVWG has enjoyed collaborations with the following organizations: the NYS Writers Institute; the Albany Institute of History and Art; the Albany-Schenectady League of Arts; the Arts Center of the Capital Region; WomanWords; the International Womens Writers Guild; local libraries; area bookstores; and the Albany Times Union. Schedule of literary events: http://www.hvwg.org/default.asp?calendar_of_events=1