Help Us Build a Legacy of Inspiration: Support the Writers’ Colony’s 2025 Capital Improvement Campaign

For 25 years, The Writers’ Colony at Dairy Hollow has been a sanctuary for writers of all genres, providing a peaceful retreat to focus on their craft. In celebration of our 25th Anniversary, we reflect on a proud legacy of offering beautiful suites, complete with gourmet meals, so writers can dedicate themselves fully to their creative projects without distraction.

This milestone is made possible by the unwavering support of our donors and community. Together, we’ve created an affordable haven for writers, with scholarships and fellowships that welcome and uplift voices from diverse backgrounds.

Thanks to the generosity of many, we’ve revitalized two historic buildings, transforming them into vibrant spaces that include eight thoughtfully designed suites, a welcoming great room, well-equipped kitchens, and serene grounds—all dedicated to nurturing creativity and storytelling. With the help of our supporters, we have:

• Renovated the Frank Lloyd Wright-inspired building at 505 Spring Street (pictured above)
• Created a unique Culinary Writers Suite
• Refurbished the Great Room with an expansive bookshelf for our writers
• Improved the office, kitchen, and suites
• Repaired HVAC, electric systems, chimneys, sidewalks, asphalt, and lighting

We've come a long way, but we still have much to do!

We need your support to continue our mission of providing a serene space for writers. To achieve our goals of providing a safe, comfortable, and more accessible environment, we need YOUR help to match the 30K Zumwalt Capital Improvement Grant.

Here is a list of some of the needs we have currently-

ADA Upgrades: We want to ensure our residencies are accessible to as many writers as possible. We've conducted a survey to address greater ADA compliance, including handicapped parking spaces, restroom grab bars, lever faucets, expandable door hinges, alarms with strobes, curb ramps, and more. Estimated cost: $2,000.

Main Office and Great Room Windows (515 Building): Replacing windows in the 515 Building, Main Office, Great Room, and Langston Hughes Suite is crucial. These windows have required repairs for 20 years, impacting heating and cooling costs. Replacement cost: $19,000.

Great Room Refurnishing: The Great Room serves as the heart of the Writers' Colony, where writers gather for Poetlucks, readings, workshops, community events, nightly dinners and more. We need to refurnish the space to enhance the functionality and create a more inciting and inspiring environment for the creativity and collaboration. Cost: $10,000

Langston Hughes Suite: Located on the lower level of 515, this suite requires renovation. It still has original single-pane windows and lacks floor insulation, making it costly to heat and cool. Upgrades needed: double-paned windows, floor insulation, and a mini-split heating unit. Cost: $27,000.

Plumbing Repairs: Our facilities need critical plumbing repairs to prevent water damage, improve efficiency, and ensure all residents have a fully functional and comfortable experience during their stay. Cost: $12,000

Landscaping Facelift: Our landscaping and grounds have seen better days. We need to address some drainage issues, as well as adding plants and trees to create a more welcoming space for our guests and those who pass by.Cost: $5,000

Upgrade Patio Furniture: Our outdoor spaces are just as vital as our indoor spaces. Writers find inspiration and reflection in nature, and upgraded patio furniture will provide a comfortable and inviting space to write, read, and connects with fellow writers. Cost: $1,500

Your generosity can make the Writers’ Colony more accessible to writers of all abilities, helping us provide a comfortable experience. Donations also help reduce operating expenses and keep our facilities updated.

Every contribution, big or small, helps us bring the vision of our Capital Improvement Campaign to life!

To Show Our Appreciation to those who donate $1.500+: An exclusive dinner for two with our Writers in Residence—a chance to connect, share stories, and immerse yourself in the creative spirit of our community.

The evening will feature a delicious meal prepared by our very own Chef Jana, known for her culinary artistry and ability to create dishes that nourish both body and soul.

This is more than just a meal—it’s a rare opportunity to meet the minds shaping the literary arts while directly supporting the creative spaces that make it all possible. Join us in creating a lasting legacy at The Writers’ Colony at Dairy Hollow.

Thank you for your generous and loving support. If you feel moved to share our campaign, we would be very grateful.

401K and IRA holders: You can donate directly from your fund to WCDH with no tax obligation. Please consult your financial advisor.