Community Group
Published 12/31/25 10:06AM
Done in a Day

Volunteer Editor for Incarcerated Writers

Remote, Volunteer can be anywhere in the world
I Want to Help


  • Details

    Available Times:
    Weekdays (daytime, evenings), Weekends (daytime, evenings)
    Time Commitment:
    Flexible
    Commitment Details:
    100% flexible with no minimum commitment. By registering as a Volunteer Editor, you only agree to be contacted when a matching editing project becomes available.  All work is completed remotely.
    Recurrence:
    Recurring
    Cause Areas:
    Arts & Music, Communications Access, Education, Human Rights & Civil Liberties, Prison Reform
    Benefits:
    Training Provided
    Good For:
    Public Groups, Age 55+, International Volunteers
    Participation Requirements:
    Attend Orientation
    Age Requirement:
    18+

    Description

    The Readers’ Circle is a volunteer-based editing network that pairs community members with incarcerated writers seeking feedback on their creative and non-fiction work. Part of the USC Dornsife Prison Education Project (USC PEP), the program offers typing, editing and feedback services to authors in over 100 U.S. prisons, allowing editors to directly support the work of underrepresented writers while fostering creative and intellectual exchange. Our authors send us work of all lengths and genres - from haikus to science fiction trilogies.

    We are seeking compassionate, articulate, and justice-minded volunteers to support our ever-expanding pool of incarcerated authors. At The Readers' Circle, we strongly believe in the power of the word to connect, heal and educate. No prior editing experience is required - just a gmail account, an open mind, and a passion for reading!

    Working knowledge of Google Workspace and at least some college is preferred. Upon signing up, you'll be asked to complete a 30-minute virtual Orientation.

    Location

    Remote
    Volunteer can be anywhere in the world
    Associated Location
    Los Angeles, CA, USA

    How to Volunteer for This Opportunity

    Fill out our Volunteer Sign-Up Sheet and look out for our bi-weekly Call for Readers. When you see a project that interests you, simply respond to the email and claim your assignment. Can't volunteer this time? Just ignore the email and wait for the next one.

    When you're allocated an assignment, you'll be given access to the author's scanned original and a Google Doc in which to make your edits. We'll also send instructions and a deadline. Once you're done, please email us to let us know. Your work is done - until next time!

    Please direct any volunteering inquiries to volunteer@pepreaders.org

    Illustration

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