Be a safe place for every single writer

With every program and event, we seek to further diversify our community of members, speakers, staff, publishing professionals, and volunteers. We acknowledge that barriers may frustrate our efforts, but continually push against those to build an inclusive community that accommodates and celebrates writers of all identities and abilities. 

Encourage writers on their journey

We understand the obstacles—internal and external—that writers face on the creative journey. So, we celebrate the achievements of our members and act as cheerleaders to help them stay motivated as they push on. Through our community-centric programs, we aim to help writers overcome the hurdles in their careers (or otherwise writerly goals), so that they can persevere and turn failures into successes.

Be a gateway for all writers to build their craft

We believe that the practice of writing has no end goal—that no matter the level, writers are always cultivating their craft. So we commit to providing opportunities for writers at all levels to develop, from learning the basics to refining nuanced techniques that can bring their writing to the next level. From our Young Willamette Writers program to our Advanced Master Classes, we provide opportunities that create a full spectrum of education for our members. 

Build connections

Writing can be seen as a lonely adventure, but it doesn’t have to be. We know that through connection, writers can become champions of their own work and the work of others. We strive to be the avenue that connects fellow writers, writer organizations, publishing professionals, presses, editors, and coaches—so we can learn from and support each other. 

Act with integrity

Our professional standards are fueled by our values, and we strive to consistently maintain these standards at all times. When the need for a change of direction, process, or program arises, our leadership and volunteers commit to adapt as needed to act with integrity that’s true to our mission. 

Keep innovating 

We seek to innovate how writers work on their craft and to create their art. To do that, we strive to keep up with the pace of change within the publishing industry, the evolving writing landscape, and the world around us. To always meet the changing needs of our members, we adapt our programs and messaging to remain relevant, timely, structured, and accessible.