Writers Guild Foundation

From top to bottom: Actor Richard Ward, writer-producer Gene Boland, and writer-actor Eric Monte in a scene from the works of students in the Writers Guild Open Door School Program.

A major effort during WGF's early days was to pay operational expenses and provide monetary student awards for the WGA-administered Open Door Writing Program (ODWP). This was the WGA’s first program focused specifically on helping diverse writers, with classes taught 6 days a week by volunteer WGA members. Hundreds of mentors and students worked together during the program. Octavia E. Butler was one of these students, and she met her first mentor, Harlan Ellison, there. The program was initiated in 1968 and ran until 1976.

The WGA Newsletter, Variety, the LA Times, The LA Sentinel, and national publications periodically profiled the activities and accomplishments of ODWP students.

"This script was written in a garage on spec next to a very noisy washer and dryer. You can write anywhere. For free."

Thank you for signing WEAPONS, Zach Cregger!

Make an appointment to read WEAPONS (or write quietly for free!) at the WGF Library at wgfoundation.org/library

Two inspiring days of creativity, craft, and community at WGFestival 2026!

A special thank you to everyone who attended, presented, volunteered, and contributed to making this year's festival an incredible experience. We are especially grateful to our Festival Sponsor Disney+ and Impact Sponsor Final Draft for their generous support and commitment to championing writers.

Here's to stronger stories, bolder voices, and the future of screenwriting. We can't wait to see you next year!