Writers in the Mountains (WIM) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting the literary arts in the Catskill Mountains, wider Upstate New York, and beyond. The organization serves a diverse community of writers and readers of all levels, from engaging a desire for the first time to returning to a foregone passion to active, experienced, and professional with an ongoing thirst for the lifetime challenges and joys of writing. In addition to offering a variety of creative writing workshops, WIM hosts numerous literary events and partners with other organizations in the community for the enjoyment of the written word.  ​

Our Story

Writers in the Mountains (WIM) is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to provide a nurturing environment for the practice, appreciation, and sharing of creative writing.

 Founded in 1992 by Shelley A. Barre, the organization serves the entire Catskill region and Hudson Valley area, and offers a variety of creative writing workshops and other events year-round. The quality of our workshops and their affordability attract a wide range of participants, from longtime or lifetime residents to the summer visitors who migrate to the Catskills area, and since the addition of online courses, our participants include voices and writers from around the world. Our instructors are devoted, seasoned experts—welcoming, dynamic, and inspiring, spanning many genres. Our students come from all backgrounds and levels of experience, pursuing their writing explorations and goals in various genres and styles. Some are New York Times bestselling authors, while others have never written before.​​​​​