What Our Members Told Us: Results from the 2026 OWA Member Satisfaction Survey

At the Ohio Writers’ Association, our members are at the heart of everything we do. We want OWA to be a place where writers can learn, grow, share their work, and—perhaps most importantly—find a community.

In August, we sent a member satisfaction survey to learn more about what our members value most about OWA and what they would like to see from the organization in the future. The responses gave us valuable insight into what’s working and where there are opportunities to grow.

Connection Is at the Heart of OWA

When we asked members why they joined OWA, 78.4% said they joined because they wanted to connect with other writers.

That response reinforces something we hear again and again from our members: writing can be a solitary pursuit, but writers don't have to navigate it alone. Creating opportunities for writers to meet, exchange ideas, share their work, and build lasting relationships is an important part of OWA’s mission.

Peer Critiques and Workshops Lead the Way

Members were also asked which OWA programs they find most valuable. Peer critiques and workshops tied for the top spot, with 37% of respondents selecting each.

Both types of programming offer opportunities for writers to learn from one another. Workshops provide practical information and instruction on topics relevant to writers at different stages of their careers, while peer critiques give writers a chance to share their work and receive feedback from fellow writers.

What Would Members Like to See Next?

Our members also shared some great ideas for future programming and events.

Suggestions included:

• Book clubs

• Online writing sprints

• More classes on combating AI and its impact on writers

• More classes on publishing

• Classes focused on keeping momentum and staying motivated as a writer

• Additional opportunities for writers to connect both in person and online

  
  

These suggestions give us plenty to think about as we plan future OWA programming.

Looking Ahead

The biggest takeaway from the survey is clear: our members want more opportunities to connect with one another and learn about publishing. We're responding to these interests immediately with a Genre Mixer to help members connect and Pathways to Publishing as an introduction to getting published.

That means finding more ways to bring writers together—not just through traditional workshops and critique groups, but through informal gatherings, online events, writing sessions, book discussions, and other opportunities to build community.

We’re grateful to everyone who took the time to complete our survey and share their thoughts. Your feedback helps us understand what our members value and how OWA can continue to serve Ohio’s writing community.

Keep an eye on OWA’s upcoming events and programming as we work to turn your ideas into opportunities for connection, learning, and creativity.

And if you have an idea for an OWA event or program that you’d love to see, we want to hear it! As a volunteer-led, small nonprofit, we are only limited by the vision and energy of our members. Reach out and let us know what would help you feel more connected to your fellow Ohio writers.