Young Authors Collective

    The Young Authors Collective (YAC) is an inclusive, welcoming space where teen writers ages 14-18 create long-lasting friendships, connect with a larger literary community, and develop writing skills.

    Apply for the 2026/27 School Year (September 2026 - May 2027), for either the online or in-person cohort, by September 15!

    What is the program like? Check out a blog post written by a past writer about their year in the cohort.

    YAC – Denver

    Wednesdays from 4:30-6:30 PM MDT

    Our Denver cohort meets at Lighthouse's York Street Building. This in-person option is great for young writers in the Denver area who want to participate in occasional special projects and/or events with the Lighthouse staff and community, and are ready for loud laughter and a love of snacks.

    Apply

    YAC – Online

    Thursdays from 5:00-7:00 PM MDT

    This online option is the perfect opportunity to connect with fellow writers across the United States and around the globe. YAC – Online is known for its ability to pen powerful puns, flex around tech issues and jokester siblings, and Zoom in from wherever they may be on a given week.

    “Young Authors Collective—Online is a welcoming place for all young writers who feel excited (or nervous) about sharing their writing with others. This community is also a place for questions, advice, humor, and building confidence!” Alex B.

    Apply

    “I learned so much, not just about writing, but about myself. I went in as a little freshman, the self-proclaimed ‘innocent one,’ and ended with my nickname being Malicious Macy. The community I was a part of was close-knit, and from the minute I arrived, I felt welcome. And of course, my writing grew exponentially better.”
    – Macy G.