Nonprofit
Published 1/17/26 9:14AM

🎬 Documentary Filmmaker & Impact Storyteller (Short-Term Residency)

Hybrid, Volunteer must be in or near Washington, DC
I Want to Help


  • Details

    Available Times:
    Weekdays (daytime, evenings), Weekends (daytime, evenings)
    Time Commitment:
    A few hours
    Commitment Details:
    5-10 hours a week
    Recurrence:
    One time only
    Volunteers Needed:
    1
    Cause Areas:
    Community Development, Education, Health & Medicine, Housing & Homelessness, Hunger, Food Security
    Benefits:
    Training Provided, Academic Credit Available
    Participation Requirements:
    Attend Orientation
    Other Requirements:
    If under 18, we will need to confirm guardian consent.

    Description

    The JJ Center Inc. On-site (DC Metro Area) / Remote Editing Project Duration: 3 Months (Approx. 5-8 hours per week)

    🌟 The Mission: Tell the Story of the Sanctuary

    The JJ Center is more than a food pantry; it is a bridge to an abundant life. We are looking for one visionary filmmaker to lead a special 3-month project to capture the soul of our work. Your goal will be to create a "Signature Impact Film" that documents our three pillars:

    1. Combatting Hunger (Food Rescue & Distribution)
    2. Healthy Lifestyles (Ending Food Deserts)
    3. The Path to Housing (Moving from crisis to stability)

    This is a unique opportunity to use your cinematic skills to give a voice to the voiceless and show the world what a "Sanctuary of Support" looks like in action.

    🛠️ Project Scope (The Roadmap)

    • Phase 1: Discovery & Concept (Month 1): Work with the CEO to identify the key stories. Attend distributions and community meetings to build trust with our neighbors and find the "heart" of the narrative.
    • Phase 2: Production (Month 2): Capture high-quality "cinematic" footage of our operations, interview staff and community members, and film the tangible impact of our programs.
    • Phase 3: The Final Cut (Month 3): Edit the footage into one 3–5 minute "Master Mission Film" and three 60-second "Mini-Stories" focused on Hunger, Health, and Housing.

    Key Responsibilities

    • Directing & Filming: Lead the creative direction of the project, ensuring a tone of dignity, hope, and excellence.
    • Sensitive Interviewing: Conduct comfortable, empathetic interviews with community members and staff.
    • Post-Production: Color grading, sound design, and editing to produce a professional, "grant-ready" film.
    • Ethical Capture: Maintain the highest standards of dignity—capturing the reality of struggle while highlighting the strength and humanity of our neighbors.

    Qualifications

    • Tell me about yourself: We want to hear your story! What draws you to social-impact filmmaking?
    • Experienced Storyteller: You have a portfolio that demonstrates your ability to tell a cohesive, emotional story (not just a highlight reel).
    • Equipment: You provide your own camera, audio, and editing equipment.
    • Master of Tone: You understand how to film vulnerable situations with extreme empathy and respect.

    What’s In It For You?

    • Director Credit: You will be credited as the Director/Filmmaker on all JJ Center platforms.
    • Executive Collaboration: Work directly with the CEO to shape the organization's public narrative.
    • Massive Impact: Your work will be used for major fundraising and grant applications to expand our housing and food programs.

    Location

    Hybrid
    Volunteer must be in or near Washington, DC
    Associated Location
    Washington, DC, USA

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