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About OPA

The Ohio Poetry Association (OPA), chartered originally as the Verse Writers’ Guild of Ohio, is a nonprofit, educational volunteer organization with a 501(c)(3) Federal designation.

We exist to promote the art of poetry and support poets and others who appreciate poetry. Since being organized as in Columbus in 1929, the Ohio Poetry Association has become statewide in scope. We are eager to assist poets, whether amateur or professional, as they hone their craft.

The Ohio Poetry Association (OPA) is an affiliate of the National Federation of State Poetry Societies (NFSPS). Besides sponsoring our own state contests, members are eligible to participate in the numerous contests of other state affiliates. We are also a strong supporter of Ohio Poetry Day, a separate not-for-profit organization to which we have close ties through our founder, Tessa Sweazy Webb.

We work extensively in Ohio schools, helping students to understand, enjoy, and create poetry. The Ohio Poetry Association and its chapters sponsor and underwrite student poetry contests, including a spring high school competition that has been offered since 1976.

We provide Quarterly Workshops in Columbus which feature some of the finest Poets authors, publishers and teachers in the world.

Other services provided by the Ohio Poetry Association include:
  • an online calendar in which to list your poetry venue, events and workshops
  • a quarterly newletter, "Workshopping Your Words"
  • a journal of poetry, Common Threads, featuring contributions from members
For more information and to become a member, please visit our website.

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OPA and PARH USA Receive Grant for Ohio Underground Railroad Whistle-Stop Poetry Tour

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Odes of October 2024 Contest Winners Announced

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OPA Ambassadors Report: NE Ohio with Ray McNiece

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