Creative Writer (Volunteer)

Creative Writer (Volunteer)
PromisePages | Creative Writing, Story Development & Literary Arts
Organization:

Mentor A Promise (MAP)
Division:

PromisePages
Location:

Remote with NYC-based collaboration as needed
Commitment:

Approximately 5–10 hours per week
Type:

Volunteer Creative Role
Minimum Commitment:

6-month commitment required
Reports To:

Editor in Chief
About Mentor A Promise
Mentor A Promise (MAP) is a New York City–based nonprofit organization serving children and youth ages 5–18 experiencing housing instability through mentorship, literacy, social-emotional learning, educational enrichment, workforce development, creative opportunity, advocacy, housing innovation, and community-centered support.
At MAP, we believe stories can build confidence, strengthen literacy, spark imagination, and help children see possibilities beyond their current circumstances.
Through books, storytelling, poetry, educational content, and creative expression, we strive to create a world where every child knows their voice matters and their story deserves to be told.
About PromisePages
PromisePages is MAP's literary arts, creative writing, publishing, authorship, storytelling, and intellectual property division.
The division develops original books, children's literature, poetry, educational resources, story worlds, characters, and literary experiences that inspire readers while advancing MAP's mission.
PromisePages serves as a creative home for writers, authors, poets, editors, illustrators, and storytellers committed to using literature as a force for learning, imagination, and social impact.
Role Overview
The

Creative Writer

serves as a creative contributor responsible for developing original stories, literary content, educational narratives, and creative works that support MAP's publishing and storytelling initiatives.
This role helps create books, children's stories, poetry, articles, character narratives, educational resources, story worlds, and other literary content designed to inspire, educate, and engage audiences.
Working closely with editors, illustrators, authors, and publishing leaders, the Creative Writer helps bring stories to life while contributing to MAP's growing literary ecosystem and intellectual property portfolio.
The ideal candidate is imaginative, thoughtful, and passionate about storytelling that creates positive impact.
Key Responsibilities
Creative Writing & Story Development
Write original stories, literary works, and creative content
Develop engaging narratives for children, families, and community audiences
Create compelling characters, settings, and story concepts
Support the development of books and publishing projects
Contribute ideas for future literary initiatives
Children's Literature
Develop age-appropriate stories for children and youth
Support literacy-focused storytelling initiatives
Create content that promotes imagination, empathy, resilience, and belonging
Contribute to MAP's growing children's publishing portfolio
Help develop educational and mission-centered narratives
Character & World Building
Create original characters and story worlds
Develop character backstories, story arcs, and narrative frameworks
Support franchise and intellectual property development initiatives
Strengthen continuity across literary projects
Help expand MAP's creative storytelling universe
Literary Content Development
Write fiction, creative nonfiction, poetry, and narrative content
Contribute to anthologies, publications, and literary projects
Support educational and enrichment content creation
Adapt stories for different audiences and formats
Collaborate on cross-platform storytelling initiatives
Collaboration & Editorial Excellence
Work closely with editors, illustrators, and fellow writers
Participate in brainstorming and story development sessions
Revise content based on feedback and editorial guidance
Maintain high standards of literary quality and creativity
Support publishing timelines and project goals
Research & Creative Exploration
Conduct research to support authentic storytelling
Explore new storytelling techniques and literary approaches
Stay informed on children's literature and publishing trends
Continuously strengthen writing and creative development skills
Preferred Qualifications
Experience in creative writing, storytelling, publishing, literature, journalism, education, or related fields
Strong writing portfolio or relevant writing samples
Excellent written communication and storytelling abilities
Ability to write for diverse audiences and age groups
Strong imagination, creativity, and attention to detail
Passion for literacy, literature, and youth development
Preferred Skills
Children's literature experience
Fiction or creative nonfiction writing experience
Poetry writing experience
Educational content development experience
Character and world-building experience
Publishing or editorial experience
Why This Role Matters
Stories help children discover who they are.
Books help children imagine who they can become.
Writers help create both.
The Creative Writer helps build literary experiences that inspire imagination, strengthen literacy, encourage self-expression, and remind young people that their voices, dreams, and stories matter.
Through storytelling, this role helps create lasting impact that extends far beyond the page.
Success Measures
Quality and originality of written work
Contribution to publishing and literary projects
Development of compelling stories and characters
Collaboration with editorial and creative teams
Support of literacy and educational initiatives
Growth of MAP's literary and publishing ecosystem
Volunteer Expectations
Approximately 5–10 hours per week
Minimum 6-month commitment
Maintain timely and professional communication
Collaborate through MAP systems and communication platforms
Support MAP's safeguarding standards, mission, and organizational values
Participate in editorial meetings and creative development sessions
What You'll Gain
Experience contributing to a growing publishing and literary arts division
Opportunity to develop stories that create meaningful social impact
Collaboration with authors, editors, illustrators, educators, and creative leaders
Portfolio-building publishing and writing experience
Professional references and letters of recommendation
Meaningful impact supporting literacy, imagination, and opportunity for children and families experiencing housing instability
How to Apply
Interested candidates should apply directly through Idealist and include their resume, writing samples, portfolio, or links to previously published work.
Please highlight experience involving creative writing, storytelling, children's literature, fiction, poetry, publishing, journalism, education, or related literary disciplines.
Help create the stories that inspire children to read, imagine, create, and believe in their own potential.
Thank you for your interest in volunteering with our organization. At this time, volunteer opportunities are limited to individuals based in the United States due to legal, safeguarding, data-privacy, and programmatic requirements. We appreciate your interest in our mission and your understanding of these constraints.