Women Writing for (a) Change, Bloomington, the 2026 Literary Champion, has spent the past 22 years cultivating a welcoming, noncompetitive environment where writers can explore their voices, develop their craft, and use writing as a tool for growth and change.

Founded in Cincinnati, Ohio, in 1991 by Mary Pierce Brosmer, Women Writing for (a) Change came to Bloomington in 2004, when Beth Lodge-Rigal opened the local affiliate. Drawing on the creative writing practices and methods she learned in Cincinnati, Lodge-Rigal began offering writing circles for women, starting with a single group of about 16 participants. As interest in the program grew, WWf(a)C Bloomington expanded to include youth programming and outreach circles developed in collaboration with local organizations and nonprofits.

In 2014, WWf(a)C Bloomington became an independent nonprofit and established the Writing for Change Foundation of Bloomington to further support its youth and outreach programs. Today, under the leadership of Mary Beth O’Brien and a dedicated team, the organization supports hundreds of writers each year, welcoming participants of all experience levels and encouraging them to explore whatever genres and forms inspire them. Its outreach circles have also grown through partnerships with a wide range of local organizations.

At the heart of WWf(a)C Bloomington is the belief that writing and sharing in a supportive, noncompetitive community can enrich both the creative process and our lives. Through classes, writing circles, and outreach programs, the organization creates attentive spaces where every voice is honored, nurtured, and celebrated.