Dave Greber was a prolific, working writer who was committed to the rigorous professionalism of non-fiction freelance writing. Though Dave wrote extensively about Canadian business, he also wrote about the environment, social justice issues, cowboys in Western Canada, and the lasting effects of violence on the individual. Often, Dave was not content to simply report on issues. Later in his life, he also sought and posed possible solutions to the problems about which he wrote. This approach to writing is but one of the traits that made him such a remarkable presence.

Dave's death in 2000 at the age of fifty prompted his life partner, Shirley Dunn, to establish a fund to honor Dave's memory and to perpetuate his professional values through the creation of the annual Greber Writing Award for freelance writers. Originally open only to Calgary writers, those from anywhere in Alberta, Saskatchewan or B.C. may now submit their work.

The award is unique in two ways: it provides support to working Canadian freelance writers when they most need it in their work cycle and it gives special regard to those writing in the area of social justice. Few other Canadian writing contests or competitions have this unique grouping of eligibility criteria. Dave Greber valued and was valued by his peers in the community of freelance writers. The Greber Writing Award represents an appropriate, ongoing contribution to Dave's chosen profession.

To learn more about Dave Greber, his work, the Greber Writing Award or how you can help support freelance writers or further the ideas of social justice please see the detailed information available on other pages of this site.