Jill Hackett

"When you choose voice, you know some-one is not going to agree with you.
There will be opposition, criticism. There are two ways to deal with criticism: either get a thick skin, or a strong inner core." — Jill

The internet has a rich array of writer organizations for networking, information, and support. Browse around and find the communities that resonate with you and your work. Here are a few sites to get you started. I'll let them introduce themselves in their own words:

WOMEN WRITERS ORGANIZATIONS

The International Women's Writing Guild
"The IWWG, founded in 1976, is a network for the personal and professional empowerment of women through writing and open to all regardless of portfolio."

Sisters in Crime
"We are 3600 members in 48 chapters world-wide, offering networking, advice and support to mystery authors. We are authors, readers, publishers, agents, booksellers and librarians bound by our affection for the mystery genre and our support of women who write mysteries."

WRITER ORGANIZATIONS

The Author's Guild
"From 1919 on, the Guild has worked on behalf of its members to lobby for free speech, copyrights and other issues of concern to authors and bring authors the latest news in the publishing industry via the Guild Bulletin."

American Society of Journalists and Authors
"Founded in 1948, the American Society of Journalists and Authors is the nation's leading organization of independent nonfiction writers.
Our membership consists of more than 1,000 outstanding freelance writers of magazine articles, trade books, and many other forms of nonfiction writing, each of whom has met ASJA's exacting standards of professional achievement."

National Writers Union
"The National Writers Union is more than just another writers'
organization - it is the only labor union that represents freelance writers in all genres, formats, and media."

LOCAL RESOURCES

Some of the organizations listed have local chapters. Also, Google your local region. You may have regional resources such as this:

Maine Writers & Publishers Alliance
"With almost 1000 members, Maine Writers & Publishers Alliance is the largest statewide literary organization, per capita, in the country. Membership is open to anyone best-selling authors as well as beginners and people who simply enjoy the literary tradition of Maine and we offer programs designed for all genres and all levels of writers."