I write quite a bit, and my start-up project is aimed at writers. Writing is a lot of fun, if only to serve as a break from programming. Although I would argue they are rather similar activities, particularly once you get to refactoring.
National Novel Writing Month (http://nanowrimo.org) is a great way for people to get started, as are local writers' circles. Writing circles are generally very accepting of new people/outsiders, because everyone is on the look out for new perspectives.
When I found out about National Novel Writing Month, I declared February to be an extra November in my personal calendar, and wrote a 204-page fantasy book. It actually came out a lot better than I expected; my writing improved enormously, and once I was a couple chapters in, I was producing something that was actually fun to read. (It was still hugely embarrassing, but fun to read.)
I can't recommend this strongly enough. When November comes along, if you have any interest in writing, you should participate in NaNoWriMo if at all possible.
National Novel Writing Month (http://nanowrimo.org) is a great way for people to get started, as are local writers' circles. Writing circles are generally very accepting of new people/outsiders, because everyone is on the look out for new perspectives.