DWR Awards Ceremony
Dec. 8 from 6:30-8 p.m.
Come celebrate the talented poets, screenwriters, children's book authors, novelists and writers of all ages from Metro Detroit at the 2025 Detroit Writing Room Awards! Writers and photographers from the region applied to the awards, and our team of judges narrowed down the finalists in each category. During the ceremony emceed by DWR coach and Detroit Free Press columnist Neal Rubin, you'll find out who takes first, second and third in 9 different categories.
Guests will first enjoy a happy hour with beer, wine and apps. You'll get a chance to mingle with fellow writers and DWR Award judges who are award-winning authors, journalists and photographers as well as DWR and Coaching Detroit Forward coaches.
Plus! Attendees will be entered in a raffle for a chance to win the "Detroit Voices" publication featuring finalists, a Detroit Writing Room membership ($199 value), 2 tickets to Detroit Public Theatre's "Holiday Cabaret," and other prizes!
Leveraging Your LinkedIn Profile for Success
Jan. 14 from 6-7:30 p.m. EST
You have a LinkedIn profile, but you're unsure of its purpose. You made a login, did a little digging,and decided it wasn't for you because you're not a social media person. Does this sound familiar? If so, this workshop is for you. Unlock the full potential of LinkedIn and position yourself for success.
Join Angela Buccellato, CEO and founder of The Resume Rescue, for an engaging workshop where you'll learn how to enhance your LinkedIn profile, build meaningful connections and effectively showcase your professional brand. In this workshop we’ll cover: profile optimization, network building, content creation, personal branding and more. This workshop is perfect for job seekers, professionals looking to enhance their online presence, writers, entrepreneurs and anyone eager to leverage LinkedIn for effective connection building. Early bird tickets are $55 until Dec. 14.
2026 Detroit Writing Retreat
May 14-17, 2026
Join us for a weekend of writing, connecting and exploring Detroit! We’ll hear from local authors, meander among artwork, murals and nature, and taste some of the best flavors the Motor City has to offer, all as inspiration for our writing.
The retreat is led by DWR Coach Lynne Golodner and features writing sessions at the Wayne State University Press and Michigan Central Station.
Members get 20% off registration. Space is limited to 15 writers. Must apply to attend by Jan. 15, 2026.
Writing That Moves People: Exploring Creative Workplace Communications
Jan. 21, 2026 from noon to 1 p.m.
In an age of information overload and rapidly advancing AI platforms, facts alone aren't enough to inspire action. Employees are overwhelmed by company communications, and workplace trust is on a decline. So how can organizations cut through the noise and craft messages (and strategies) that truly inspire, inform and connect? This workshop is designed for leaders and communication professionals who want to break through corporate jargon and connect with employees on a deeper, more human level. Whether you're writing an internal newsletter, a CEO update or leading culture change, this workshop will equip you with creative strategies to communicate with authenticity and impact.
The workshop is led by Jen Williams, a writer and award-winning communications leader based in Metro Detroit. With nearly 14 years of experience shaping executive and internal communications, Jen brings practical insights and a deep understanding of how communication drives culture and employee behavior.
Thought Leadership for Nonprofits: How It Can Boost Impact & Grow Revenue
Feb. 4 from noon to 1 p.m.
Nonprofit leaders — stop being the best-kept secret in your sector. Learn how to become a recognized authority who shapes the conversations that matter. In this workshop led by Dr. Kate Greulich, you'll master thought leadership fundamentals through proven nonprofit examples and data showing real marketing impact. Discover exactly where your expertise creates influence and how to position yourself as the go-to voice in your cause area.
You’ll walk away with your personalized content strategy — specific pillars that turn your knowledge into powerful marketing assets. No more guessing what to write about. Your marketing team gets a clear roadmap for creating content that builds your reputation, attracts major donors and amplifies your mission. Ready to claim your space as a sector leader? This is how you do it. Early bird tickets are $35 until Jan. 4.