The third annual Clarion West Write-a-thon is in progress. I’m not participating as a writer this year (I am writing now, bouncing across projects in a hyperactive way that isn’t at all write-a-thon schedule-oriented), but I am sponsoring writers, and I’m not above grabbing some your attention — and hopefully money — in service of a good cause.

In case you weren’t among those exposed to my rootin’ and/or tootin’ last summer, Clarion West is an intensive six-week workshop for writers preparing for professional careers in science fiction and fantasy. It’s been around for over twenty years thanks to a record of success and the energy of committed and talented volunteers.

As the Clarion West Donate page explains, donations “help run the organization, keep the tuition as low as possible, and supplement the scholarship fund for students who would not otherwise be able to attend.”

Clarion West is a 501(c)(3) non-profit educational organization, so donations are tax deductible. But enough about the Internal Revenue Code. Let’s talk about me.

I can say that attending Clarion West made me a better writer. It brought markets and resources to my attention that I would have missed otherwise. And most importantly, it brought me into a community whose support continues to this day.

So, friends and relations and anonymous benefactors, if you’re so inclined please toss some dough their way. They’ll use it wisely and well.

The link to the Write-a-thon page has a PayPal button and a mailing address if you want to send a check.

And here’s a cheer for the write-a-thon participants: go, team! Meet those goals! Climb that word count! Block those scenes! Kick those metaphors!