Creative writing

We partner with family temporary housing sites across New York, educational institutions, and community organizations to create a strong support network for young people experiencing homelessness, helping them overcome challenges and forge their own path to success. We connect students with our mentors for in-person and online programs.

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Position Title Children’s Book Writer

Location Remote (U.S.)

Time Commitment 3-5 hours/week for a minimum of three months

Compensation This is a volunteer position

About Mentor A Promise

We are Mentor A Promise, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing social learning, academic support, and mentorship to students experiencing housing challenges and homelessness in NYC. Through creativity, compassion, and community, we aim to uplift young voices and nurture the imagination of every child we serve.

Role Overview

We are seeking a volunteer Children’s Book Writer to help us bring original, empowering stories to life. These books will be used in literacy programs, read-alouds, and virtual storytimes to inspire children from underserved communities. If you’re passionate about storytelling, childhood development, and equity in education, this is your chance to write with purpose.

Responsibilities Include

• Story Development Write original children’s stories (picture books or early readers) that reflect diverse cultures, voices, and experiences
• Character Creation Develop relatable, engaging characters that resonate with children ages 4-10
• Mission Alignment Integrate themes of hope, resilience, friendship, kindness, and empowerment
• Collaboration Work with illustrators, educators, and program staff to shape and refine story ideas
• Editing & Feedback Revise drafts based on team feedback and age-appropriate language guidance
• Optional Participate in live or recorded read-alouds to share your story with young readers
  
  

Qualifications

• Strong creative writing skills, with a focus on storytelling for young children
• Experience (professional or personal) writing picture books, short stories, or educational content
• Ability to write with empathy, humor, and emotional intelligence
• Passion for literacy, education equity, and cultural representation in children’s media
• Familiarity with narrative structure, rhythm, and voice appropriate for young readers
• Collaborative spirit and openness to feedback
  
  

Benefits & Recognition

• Creative Impact See your work brought to life and shared with children who may see themselves in a story for the first time
• Portfolio Development Build writing samples and gain authorship credit for future opportunities
• Mentorship & Support Receive guidance from experienced educators, writers, and illustrators
• Professional Recognition Earn a personalized letter of recommendation and verified volunteer hours
• Community Connection Join a team passionate about storytelling, literacy, and social good
  
  

To Apply

Please email [email protected] with the subject line Children’s Book Writer (Volunteer) .

Include

• A brief cover note introducing yourself and your interest in the role
• A writing sample (children’s story, scene, or excerpt-no more than 1,000 words)
• Optional A short pitch or idea for a children’s book you'd love to write
  
  

Let’s write stories that children will remember-and that reflect the world they live in.