We have launched the Writers' Guild of Alberta Endowment Fund with the goal of establishing longevity and future sustainability so we can continue to support Alberta writers. Your donation will help to ensure our financial stability and allow us to maintain our current programs and create new opportunities for our writers.
The WGA supports close to 1,000 members. Our goal for the endowment fund for the 2016/2017 fiscal year is $25,000.
Our programs have helped Alberta writers launch their literary careers and follow their dreams:
“My time with my mentor was nothing short of life-changing. Her criticism, coupled with her wisdom and gentle humor was instrumental in transforming my manuscript from a first draft to an award-winning novel.”
— Ali Bryan, author of Roost and former apprentice of the WGA’s mentorship program
The WGA supports and inspires young writers; participants of the WordsWorth Youth Creative Writing Residency program have said:
“Here I feel very welcome and have the chance to meet some amazing people who share the same passion as me and can teach me to write better.”
“It’s such a wonderful environment. You learn, but it doesn’t feel like school, and every single person here is kind (not to mention talented). Going to WordsWorth is a magical experience.”
The literary community of Alberta embraces both emerging and established writers, and the WGA works towards facilitating these relationships.
“When I first moved to Calgary from the U.S., the WGA introduced me to my new colleagues: an energetic, eclectic, and immensely open literary community. I may not have originally moved here for Alberta’s writing community, but it’s one of the reasons I stay.”
— Julie Sedivy, former president of the WGA and co-author of Sold on Language
The WGA relies heavily on government grants and the generosity of individuals and corporations, all of which can be unpredictable in times of economic uncertainty, potentially jeopardizing our programs and services. The growth of the endowment fund will provide a stable resource of funds regardless of a variable economy; a higher value of the fund provides a higher return.
