The mission focuses on the belief that literature is vital to sustaining a vibrant culture. It aims to help create an environment in which literature can be appreciated by the widest possible public, emphasizing support for diverse cultural engagements and reaching underserved communities.
The grant program supports organizations sponsoring readings and workshops in select locations across the United States, including New York State, California, Atlanta, Chicago, Detroit, Houston, New Orleans, Seattle, Tucson, and Washington, D.C. It provides mini-grants for writer's fees for both in-person events adhering to COVID-19 safety protocols and virtual events until June 30, 2024. The grants vary in amounts, with readings or spoken word performances funded differently across locations, and workshops having their own specific ranges as well. Funding priorities include serving a culturally diverse audience, featuring diverse writers and new voices, reaching underserved areas, first-time R&W support recipients, organizations that can match R&W's payment to writers, and those with a strong publicity plan.