August 14, 2014

Creative Destruction Improves AF Programs

By: Roger Custer


America's Future Foundation (AFF) is pleased to announce an improvement to its writing programs in order to better serve you.  We invite you to participate in a new professional development program for writers called AF Writing Fellowship, led by Adam O'Neal (pictured).  This program will consist of in-person trainings as well as informal networking and opportunities to publish and interact with editors from major outlets.  Learn more and apply at this page.

AF Writing Fellowship will replace the online magazine Doublethink.  Given the variety of online and print media available these days, AF made the difficult decision to stop publishing, effective this month.  While Doublethink will be missed by many, AF's staff and board understand the importance of creative destruction and look to use scarce resources in the most efficient matter.     

Doublethink launched at a time before social media when there were very few publishing opportunities for aspiring writers.  AF was able to help many young writers get their starts.  19 years later, we are glad to see that emerging writers have ample opportunities to write at other publications.
Current Editor Joel Gehrke writes, “It has been a pleasure to work with Doublethink’s contributors, who have reported on topics ranging from Egyptian entrepreneurs finding opportunities during the 2012-2013 protests to religious freedom in China. Established professionals such as Tim Carney, J.P. Freire, Ramesh Ponnuru, and Peter Suderman supported the publication with their time and editorial advice — a testament to their courtesy and the success of Doublethink in promoting talented young people over the years. Thanks to everyone who helped make this editorial job such a rewarding one over the past two years.”

AF is proud of the rich history of Doublethink and the many writers and editors who have gone on to successfully influence the national conversation.  In 2012, David Brooks specifically named four Doublethink alumni as "powerfully influencing" the GOP, and that is only the beginning.  Former writers and editors now work for National Review, Bloomberg, Reason, Barron's, the Weekly Standard, the Atlantic the Washington Examiner, and many other publications. 

The vision of AF's new writing program is to create articulate and effective writers who understand free market ideas.  We welcome professional journalists and those who write in other areas such as development and communications.  Participants will learn specific skills, receive personal guidance from established leaders, and be connected to publishing opportunities in major media.  Apply now.

We look forward to working with the next generation of writers.  If you have any questions about AF Writing Fellowship, please contact Adam O'Neal.            

Sincerely,
Roger Custer
Executive Director