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The Erma Bombeck Writers' Workshop is the envy of many in the writing world because of its top-notch slate of keynoters and faculty - and its immense popularity.

"The workshop sells out in a matter of hours largely because of a steadfast group of passionate writers who have become our social media champions," said Teri Rizvi, the workshop's founder. "In the digital age, they have carried the banner of the workshop far and wide. They believe in our mission of inspiring and encouraging writers - and are a huge reason behind our success in drawing writers from all parts of the country and beyond."

That's why Rizvi is reaching out to writers in the "Erma tribe" for help in launching the workshop's first online fundraising drive on Nov. 29 on #GivingTuesday. It's a global day of giving that harnesses the collective power of individuals, communities and organizations to make a difference in the lives of others and the causes they support.

"Registration fees cover only half the cost of operating the workshop," Rizvi said. "To keep the workshop affordable for writers, we're raising money for the endowment fund. The size of the gift doesn't matter. We'd love to see broad support from those who love the workshop and believe in its future."

You can make an online donation here.

The workshop has set an ambitious goal of raising $20,000 in contributions by the end of the year to take full advantage of a generous $20,000 matching gift from an anonymous donor. The #GivingTuesday social media campaign is part of that push. Between now and Dec. 31, all donations to the workshop will be matched dollar for dollar, up to $20,000.

Rizvi is asking supporters to make a gift and post an "UNselfie" on social media on Nov. 29 to encourage others to give that day. Here are step-by-step instructions for creating an #UNselfie:

1)Download blank UNselfie sign. Share how you are giving back or why you give on the UNselfie sign.

2) Say "cheese!" Hold up the #UNSelfie sign and take your selfless selfie.

3) Share your #UNselfie on social media and encourage your friends to give.

4) Or make it easy on yourself and download one of these Erma #UNselfie signs to use at your photo shoot: You Can Write!, Inspiration or Erma Rocks!

5) We plan to compile a Facebook album, so please send your #UNselfie to erma@udayton.edu.

To make an online gift, click here. Checks can be mailed to the Erma Bombeck Writers' Workshop, University of Dayton, 300 College Park, Dayton, OH 45469-7054. If you or your spouse works for a matching gift company, the impact of your gift may be doubled or tripled. Please check here or your human resources office for details.

"We're continually amazed and inspired by the generosity of all involved in the Erma Bombeck Writers' Workshop," Rizvi said. "It's a community of talented, supportive writers who encourage and empower each other. It's a workshop that keeps on giving, and we're grateful to all - keynoters, faculty, attendees and friends of the workshop - for their support."