MISSION STATEMENT
The WCYR is a community that provides encouragement, inspiration, and celebration in support of writers of all genres, at all stages of development.
OUR COMMUNITY
The Writers’ Community of York Region is a collective of local authors, poets, and industry professionals who strive to build a supportive and encouraging framework for writers and their craft. Our shared love of literature provides a platform for education, inspiration, and an opportunity to network, connect and celebrate.
Our goal is to engage our fellow writers by increasing public awareness and attendance at our events, and active participation within our online forum. All writers at all stages are welcome. Ultimately, we are in pursuit of being the representing body for literary endeavours in York Region.
SUMMARY OF PROGRAMS & SERVICES
- monthly events from September to June with knowledgeable speakers
- free member-run workshops
- special event opportunities for both polished and published writers
- networking and newsletters
- opportunities to build your writing CV/portfolio
Click HERE to see our full list.
A LITTLE BIT OF HISTORY
Provisional Committee members ~ Top Row: Isobel Warren, Pamela Wilson, Cheryl Andrews, Christine Barbetta, Heather Anne Lambert, Malcolm Watts. Bottom Row: James Dewar, Hyacinthe Miller, Sue Reynolds
On March 25th, 2011 President James Dewar and Past President Sue Reynolds of the Writers’ Community of Durham Region met with a group of writers from the York Region at the Aurora Cultural Centre to talk about the possibility of a Writers’ Community for York Region.
A number of current and previous WCDR members were also on hand and, by the end of the meeting, a group of enthusiastic souls had formed a committee to move the new organization forward.
Today we have tripled our membership and have a thriving group. Since our inception in 2011 we’ve had the honour of presenting over 60 seminar speakers and workshop leaders as we strive to make accessible current and relevant industry practice. But we have become so much more than just an educational avenue for writers, publishers, illustrators, and other industry professionals.
The WCYR has an active online presence and a blog (Easy Writer) where members have the opportunity to earn publishing credentials through our “Paid Submissions” option. Our growth has allowed us to help all of our members with Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn pages that celebrate member achievements, and another page focused on goal-setting. We provide local opportunities to meet during National Novel Writing Month, and chances to read your work both at occasional Open Mic or similar activities (see our Newsletter for exact dates and any cancellations).
Our partnerships with the WCDR, Writescape, Ink Slingers, Local Libraries, Cardinal Press Espresso Bar, and many more, provide a myriad of opportunities for writers at every stage. One of our biggest past initiatives has been to bring readers and writers together in our giant book fair THE BOOKSHELF. This event is held in those years a WCYR volunteer steps forward to assemble a team and organize it. We aim to provide an appealing venue for our local published writers to connect with readers of all genres. Past events have boasted approximately 50 local authors, free spotlight prizes every half-hour, a free Kids Zone with craft and character appearances, as well as sponsored dollar-draws.
In the coming years, we hope to introduce a number of new incentives, projects, and opportunities. One we are currently excited about is a Writers’ Grant opportunity for education and publishing help.
With a dedicated TEAM of volunteers who are eager to try new things and explore new possibilities, we can’t wait to help our community grow and prosper in the years to come.
Click HERE to meet the WCYR TEAM.