Mentor A Promise is hiring: Local News Reporter/Writer (Volunteer) in New York

Mentor A Promise (MAP) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting children and youth ages 5–18 experiencing housing instability in New York City. Through mentorship, academic enrichment, social-emotional learning, literacy development, and creative expression, MAP creates safe, consistent, and empowering spaces where young people can thrive.

We are seeking a Volunteer Local News Reporter/Writer to cover and share stories about MAP’s programs, community partnerships, and the lived experiences of families we serve. This role will focus on creating compelling, human-centered narratives that highlight both challenges and resilience in communities impacted by housing instability.

Role Overview

The Reporter/Writer will work closely with MAP’s communications and program teams to ensure stories are accurate, timely, and aligned with our mission and values.

Key Responsibilities

• Research and write articles highlighting MAP’s programs, events, and student/mentor stories
• Cover local news and issues connected to housing, education, and youth development
• Conduct interviews with students, families, staff, and community partners
• Collaborate with the communications team to ensure alignment with MAP’s messaging
• Develop culturally sensitive and ethically responsible content
• Pitch story ideas that elevate the voices of underserved communities
• Support MAP’s storytelling initiatives across newsletters, blogs, and social media

Qualifications

• Background in journalism, communications, writing, or related field
• Strong reporting, interviewing, and storytelling skills
• Knowledge of housing, education, or community issues in New York City a plus
• Ability to write clear, compelling, and accurate content under deadlines
• Commitment to ethical journalism and cultural sensitivity
• Bilingual or multilingual abilities (Spanish, Haitian Creole, or others) a plus

Commitment

• Volunteer role, approximately 5–10 hours per week
• Minimum 6-month commitment preferred
• Remote and/or in-person (depending on program needs)

What You’ll Gain

• Hands-on reporting experience in nonprofit and community-based journalism
• Opportunities to publish meaningful stories with real impact
• Collaboration with a passionate, mission-driven team of mentors and educators
• Professional references and letters of recommendation
• The chance to amplify the voices of children, youth, and families navigating housing instability

Please send your resume, LinkedIn profile, and 1–2 writing samples to hr@mentorapromise.org along with a brief statement of interest.