THE VETERANS WRITING RETREAT
APRIL 21-22, 2012

We are now accepting applications for the Writers Guild Foundation 2012 Veterans Writing Retreat.

We are seeking all qualified service members (veteran or active) with an interest in writing to participate in a free, two-day writing workshop to be held in Los Angeles in April 2012. No previous experience is necessary, just the desire to create.

We are offering fifty qualified military veterans the opportunity to work with some of the top writers in America.

This is a chance to explore your creativity through writing - whether a short story, a screenplay, a novel, a poem, a children's book or a journal - or to help you take your current writing efforts to the next level. Our objective is to encourage you and your writing only. We do not intend to, nor can we, publish or market the work that emerges. Writing that emerges from this workshop will belong to you. It is up to you to take your work further if you wish.

Cost?
Free to qualified veterans and military servicemembers. Breakfast & lunch will be provided.

When?
April 21 & 22, 2012

Where?
Writers Guild Foundation, 7000 W. Third Street, Los Angeles, CA 90048. Accommodation can be arranged if required.

What are people saying about the retreat? 
“I would climb a mountain just to feel as good about writing as I do today.”

“In the safe environment set up by the mentors, I discussed stories about my life that I’ve NEVER told before and felt safe.”

“While in jump school at Fort Benning, I recall feeling breathless with fear as I leaned out of a C-130. When I started writing, though, the fear was crippling. My mentor’s response was ‘Dude, fear is my middle name.’ Her words were powerful enough for me to feel confident to share my own words.”

Read the story of the Vets Retreat 2011.

Who is eligible?
All military veterans and active duty service members are welcome; typically, we host representatives of all ages from every branch of the armed forces. Other than veteran status, the primary criterion we look for is a sincere passion for writing.

Veterans are mentored by professional writers with a variety of backgrounds. Most are television writers or screenwriters, but we also invite journalists, poets, novelists and teachers. 

How many vets does it serve?
The Veterans Writing Project is twofold. There is a weekend workshop in April, where 50 to 60 vets attend a series of small, intensive writing classes. About 25 to 30 mentors attend this workshop. But we don’t leave the vets after that. Each month, a small group of Los-Angeles area vets meets at the WGF headquarters, to continue to workshop their writing with industry mentors.

Why do we do it?
For the millions of veterans of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, adjustment to civilian life can be difficult. Many without physical injuries suffer psychological trauma, and all struggle with the transition from the intense stress and pressures of war to the daily concerns of life back home. Many have important stories to tell. Many have real writing talent, but need guidance. Writing can offer a way to process their experiences and begin to heal. The Writers Guild Foundation prides itself on offering these vets, as well as their brethren who served in earlier conflicts, the guidance they need to express themselves on the page.

How can I apply?
Simply download the application here. Then, once it’s completed, you can fax it to 323.782.4695 or email it to Kevin Ott at kott "at" wga.org.

How can I help?
The Veterans Writing Project is always in need of financial support, and we’re always on the lookout for passionate and motivated mentors working in the film and television industry. For more information on how you can help contact Kevin Ott at 323.782.4694 or make a donation here.

To download the application, CLICK HERE.

See the Veterans Workshop Donors and Sponsors here.

If you’d like to participate and/or contribute to the Writers Guild Foundation’s Veterans Writing Workshop, please call 323-782-4692 Angela Kirgo for more information on how to get involved and support the Foundation’s ongoing community outreach efforts.