1. Can you explain what WWF(a)C is? What’s intentional about it?

Women Writing for (a) Change is a multi-layered community writing experience.  A few of the constant aspects are these and they are very intentional:
• The emphasis is on the written word; the PROCESS  of the creation and sharing of written pieces in various forms. Feedback, support, class content are all geared toward writing which communicates, seeks greater depth, authenticity, and encourages the true voice of the writer.
• The emphasis is on truth telling and co-creating an environment in which this is possible. It is not therapy, but the belief is that powerful writing comes in great part, from an observed and examined life; equal parts external and internal. We gather to write as a means to greater awareness and intention in our lives. Whether you are a seasoned or less experienced writer, material lifted up in this class context will always carry elements of deeper personal questioning and exploration.
• Each participant takes responsibility for her contributions to the whole: this includes bringing weekly writing, asking for specific feedback, and communicating absences ahead of time. You are also asked to bring an open heart and  a willingness to open to new ways of offering feedback to your fellow writers. Some women return for multiple semesters, creating a sense of continuity and community over time. Unlike an academic course where a certain topic or skill set is covered in a given semester, our sessions are more experiential. How you approach this work largely determines what you gain from it.

2. What is the time commitment for this class?
   
The most important considerations are consistency and a commitment to developing a practice for your writing life. The time that takes is up to you. The group will support your commitments.

3. What kind of writing assignments are there?
   
Writing prompts, exercises and articles are offered over the course of a semester, but they are meant as a supplement to your writing life.   They are offerings for times you feel stuck or are in need of some fresh inspiration.  Occasionally, we will discuss an article as a group, but there are not tests or quizzes and you are always free to follow your own muse.  Samples of poems, essays, excerpts from literature are meant to encourage reading and thinking outside of class.

4. Can I miss classes?

Very few women can manage their schedules to attend all 13 meetings. On the other hand, missing more than three can feel like a loss to the members of a woman's small group, who count on one another for good listening, support and feedback week-to-week.

5. I want to write in a supportive community like this, but cannot carve out 13 consecutive weeks.
   
Consider a weekend retreat, a workshop, or a sampler. Other opportunities are always evolving. Check our website from time to time to see if something might work for you.

6. How many women are in a typical circle?

Ideally there are  12-16 in a circle. This allows us to create small groups of four where your writing is heard and responded to every week according to the specific kinds of feedback you request. We’ve had classes as small as 6 and as large as 20.

7. I don't know anything about giving critique.
   
We don't offer typical critique. Rather, we learn to identify and lift up what is strong and powerful in each woman's writing. Learning how to give and receive constructive feedback is a major focus of our work together. Our writing deepens as we listen to one another,  as we hear one another’s work, and explore avenues for deepening together. Small groups are constructed with a view toward the kind of writing projects being pursued and the kind of feedback wished for. While some groups focus on careful encouragement only, others provide supportive craft feedback as well.

8. Can I make up a missed meeting by attending a different day?
   
This would not work in our context. Building a community of trust is integral to our work. There is no 'make up' opportunity per se. We do, however, send all materials to you the day you miss so you can keep current.

9. Is there a place for MEN in Women Writing for (a) Change? 

Women Writing for a Change serves women.  For co-ed workshops and programs that use the Writing for a Change process, please link to the Writing for a Change Foundation of Bloomington.

10. What are your hours of operation? Can I come by the school when meetings are not in session?

There are a number of other meetings, activities/small businesses operating out of the space.  The space is shared collectively.  It is not a “drop in center”.  Best to call for an appointment.

If you have a question that is not answered here, please do not hesitate to contact us with it!