Our History
Central Colorado Writers has grown from a small gathering of local writers into a vibrant regional community. Over the years, we have built beloved traditions, championed member successes, and created the kind of lasting connections that only come from a shared love of the written word.
Our history reflects a deep commitment to the writers of Central Colorado — nurturing talent, celebrating stories, and growing a literary home that continues to welcome writers of all backgrounds and experience levels. From our earliest meetings to the thriving organization we are today, CCW has remained rooted in the belief that every writer deserves a community to call home.
Historical Dates
The Central Colorado Writers began in the heart of the Rockies, born from a small gathering of authors seeking community and professional growth.
Over the decades, our club has transformed from an informal critique circle into a cornerstone of the regional literary scene, bridging the gap between artistic passion and practical publication success.
Our heritage is rooted in the wild beauty of Colorado and the shared belief that every story deserves to be heard.
2026
Gathered writers in Buena Vista, Colorado, for our first Writers' Retreat, a celebration of inspiration, creativity, and community.
2025
Published the fourth collection of member short stories and poems, Valley Voices: Pearls at our 30th Anniversary "Pearl" Party.
2023
Adopted the name Central Colorado Writers, honoring our growing community and the many writers who make it thrive.
2022
Created the Youth Writing Contest to inspire young writers to share their voices, creativity, and stories.
2021
Launched the virtual Writing Critique Sessions, extending our writing community beyond county lines to support writers wherever they are.
Introduced our first virtual workshop. Collaborate with other writing groups to host at least one workshop every month.
2020
Joined the Salida Art Walk with an Author Gallery, which has since become an annual celebration of our member authors.
2019
Partnered with the National Mining Museum to create a collection of stories celebrating our community and its heritage.
2016
Launched our website to bring writers together, share resources and opportunities, and help our writing community grow.
2002
Published our third collection, Valley Voices: Ripples.
2001
Hosted our first poetry workshop, launching a tradition that continues today. Offer at least two in-person workshops each year.
1999
Released our second collection, Valley Voices: Passages, showcasing the growing talent within our ranks.
1998
Published our first collection of member short stories and poems, Valley Voices: Mountain Dreams.
1995
Founded under the Chaffee County Council on the Arts as the Chaffee County Writers Exchange.
Past Events & Activities
A collection of memories, insights, and key takeaways from our past gatherings and literary adventures.
A running record of the CCW community — past announcements, member news, contest results, and more.
A celebration of young voices! Explore each year's theme, winners, and finalists from our Youth Writing Contest.
Small prompts, big imagination. Browse our past WeWrites gatherings, where a single prompt set the stage for creative exploration.
An intensive series of sessions dedicated to mastering the technical aspects of narrative voice and plot design.
A celebration of thirty years of writing together! Relive the moments, memories, and milestones from the one and only Pearl Party.