Thank you for visiting Cave Canem's fundraising page!

Donating through this website is simple, fast, totally secure, and an efficient way to support the efforts of Cave Canem Foundation, the organization poet Nikky Finney has called “the major air pocket and watering hole for black poetry.”

A gift to Cave Canem helps sponsor two prestigious book awards for African American poets, New York City writing workshops, a Legacy Conversation series with such renowned poets as Derek Walcott, anthology publication, and readings in major cities across the country.

Most importantly, your generosity nurtures our annual retreat, the heart of our mission to cultivate the artistic and professional growth of African American poets. Held at the University of Pittsburgh in Greensburg and offered tuition-free, this week-long “safe space” for creativity serves 54 fellows every year. Here is what some of our fellows are saying about us:  

“Because of Cave Canem, I accept who I am, and most importantly, I am able to see myself in a long tradition of poets who took the task of writing seriously.”

 “Cave Canem has given me the skills, motivation and confidence I need to continue making my way through and into the world of poetry.”

 “Cave Canem accepted me fully. I love that. Every since my first year at Cave Canem, I have been in a loving and profitable family of writers, friends, griots, nurturers, and peers that not only helps me with my writing, but with my way of living.”

 “I've been thinking like a full time artist since the retreat ended.”

 “I know I am part of a community that is thriving and making a difference aesthetically and philosophically. There was the Harlem Renaissance, the Black Arts Movement, and now Cave Canem.”

 “Without Cave Canem, I wonder how much tougher and more unjust our writing lives would be."