Erma Bombeck Writers' Workshop

The Project

The Erma Bombeck Writers' Workshop is building its endowment to help keep the workshop affordable for writers. Registration fees cover less than half the cost of operating the biennial workshop. For every dollar donated, an anonymous donor will double your contribution, up to $10,000. 

Who We Are

The Writer magazine named the Erma Bombeck Writers' Workshop the best writing conference in Ohio and "THE conference for humor writers." Since the first workshop in 2000, literally thousands of writers, inspired by Erma's humor and humanity, have gathered to laugh and learn from the likes of Dave Barry, Gail Collins, Phil Donahue, Nancy Cartwright, Alan Zweibel, Lisa Scottoline and more. It's the only workshop in the country devoted to both humor and human interest writing.

The Impact

One writer dubs the workshop the “Woodstock of Humor.” Another calls it a “utopia” for writers. Many say it’s life changing. Empowering. And, yes, even magical. Writers tell us they gained the confidence, writing know-how and connections to publish books, write essays for The New York Times and other national outlets, perform stand-up comedy, secure speaking engagements and submit work for anthologies. University of Dayton students have been inspired by the presenters and attendees they’ve met from across the nation.

What Your Gifts Will Do

If we had to charge all our expenses to workshop attendees, our registration fee would more than double. That’s why we need your support. Earnings from the endowment supplement our operating budget, allowing us to keep the registration fee low and to bring in national-caliber presenters. Every gift, no matter the size, makes a difference.

Be an Erma champion and spread the news! Please help us honor Erma's legacy and inspire writers for generations to come.

You have our heartfelt gratitude.